Have you wondered whether you should clean your dishwasher but you weren't sure how to do it? Dishwashers last longer and run more efficiently when they are properly maintained. Set aside 15 minutes every few months to give yours a thorough cleaning, and you'll be rewarded with years of reliable service.
What You Need to Maintain Your Dishwasher
Vinegar
A sponge, washcloth or paper towels
Toothpick or pipe cleaners
A dishwasher-safe cup
Owner's Manual - paper or online
5 Steps to Clean and Maintain Your Dishwasher
1. Find the Owner's Manual
Get out the owner's manual. If you can't remember where you put it (or you never had one), you should be able to find the owner's manual for your dishwasher online, along with the recommended maintenance instructions. Finding it first will help when it comes to completing the other steps. Check the make and model of your dishwasher and do an online search for it.
2. Unclog the Sprayer Arm Nozzles
First, remove the racks for the dishwasher so you can easily get to the sprayer arm. Check the nozzles on the sprayer arms for clogs. Clean them as necessary with a toothpick or pipe cleaners.
3. Clean the Drain
Unplug your dishwasher. The plug for it is probably under the sink, if it is a built-in model. You may even want to turn off the circuit breaker just to be sure. Check your owner's manual to see if the tray around the drain just slides off or is easily removable, and follow those instructions. Remove any food or debris from the drain at the bottom of the unit.
4. Inspect and Touch Up the Racks
Inspect the racks for chips, and repair any that you find with dishwasher rack touch up paint. Dishwasher rack touch up paint comes in multiple colors, so take the time to find a paint that matches your racks. Order it direct from the manufacturer or through an online retailer, like Amazon.
If your dishwasher racks are already badly rusted, look into buying replacement racks. You may be able to find them on eBay for less than the manufacturer sells them.
5. Run Vinegar Through a Dishwasher Cycle to Remove Soap Scum
Replace the racks, allowing touch-up paint to dry if used. Place a cup of vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher, and run it through a complete cycle. A packet of unsweetened lemon-flavored drink mix may be used in place of the vinegar. Just pour it into the detergent compartment, and run the dishwasher through a cycle.
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