The dishwasher is one of the most frequently used home appliances which makes the whole dishwashing process much easier and convenient. But, cleaning the dishwasher or maintaining it may not be a top priority considering it is a self-cleaning appliance. Considering the frequency at which the dishwasher is used, it is crucial to perform basic maintenance of the dishwasher at regular intervals.
A dishwasher with no maintenance can affect its efficiency and can cause costly issues in the long run. That’s why it is better to take preventative measures by following some easy dishwasher maintenance tips that will ensure this essential home appliance is performing best!
Dishwasher Maintenance Tips
Wash Dishwasher Frequently
To remove the excess buildup, it is necessary to wash the dishwasher regularly or frequently. It will help remove the dirt particles or debris from settling at the bottom of the dishwasher and will also substantially reduce the number of times you need to pay for a thorough professional cleaning in a year.
Empty the Appliance
Before washing the dishwasher, it is important to remove all the dishes from the same and then run the dishwasher at a full cleaning cycle. It will help you have easier reach to the dishwasher and feasibly perform the cleaning.
Clean the Spinning Arms
Dishwashers operate by spraying water through the spinning arms attached to the dishes added for washing. If the holes in these spinning arms are full of dirt or built up, they will not spin properly and will not allow for proper cleaning of the dishes. That’s why you must always ensure that there is no accumulation of dirt on these spinning arms. Clean the inside holes of these arms with a dishwasher cleaning brush, a toothpick or a small wire.
Clean the Edges, Exterior and Other Parts
A dishwasher should be cleaned not only from the inside but from the outside as well. The dirt built up at the edges and exteriors (if not cleaned) will ooze offending smells. To avoid this, ensure to clean the edges around the dishwasher door and the exteriors with a good quality household cleaner and soft cloth. You also need to pay attention to the other parts of the dishwasher like the gasket, flatware basket, under the door, and the detergent dispenser too.
Clean the Drain
The drain system is attached at the bottom of the dishwasher and is the most common zone wherein the food particles, debris, and other buildings accumulate no matter how cautious you are about maintaining the dishwasher. And if these obstacles are not removed, it will lead to clogging issues. The clogged drain will affect the dishwasher cleaning system and will leave you with not-so-cleaned dishes and utensils. Eventually, you may have to opt for dishwashing cleaning services.
But, the good news is that you can clean the dishwasher drain by yourself. For a start, remove any big built-up debris by hand and to tackle the smaller pieces, you may need to disassemble the dishwasher drain.
Follow this simple process to unclog and clean the dishwasher drain:
- Firstly Unplug the dishwasher.
- Remove the screws attached to the cover and dismantle the cover.
- Clear out the larger buildups by hand.
- Remove the smaller particles or deposits with a cleaning brush or cloth.
- Reassemble the dishwasher cover.
Cleaning the dishwasher drain will help ensure the wastewater is exiting the dishwasher correctly and that your dishes are cleaned properly.
Use Household Acids to Remove Dirt
The dishwasher receives a lot of buildup and water deposits during the cleaning dishes process. You can use some of the easy cleaning solvents like vinegar, lemon juice, and lemonade mix to clean the insides, and edges of the dishwasher with these household acids to remove the excess scale and dirt. Also, ensure to put the powdered substances in the detergent rack, keep the liquids in a bowl and place it on the top rack.
Get Rid of Mold and Mildew
Use mild bleach to clean the dishwasher if you experience mold and mildew development in the same. It will sanitize the dishwasher thoroughly and will provide sparkly clean dishes each time you use the appliance.
Also Read: Dishwasher Buying Guide: 7 Key Factors To Consider For Selecting The Best One!
