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How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher? A Complete Schedule
Your dishwasher does the dirty work for you, but how often do you return the favour? While it may seem like your dishwasher cleans itself with every cycle, food residue, soap scum, and mineral buildup can reduce its efficiency over time. In this complete guide, we'll walk you through how often you should clean each part of your dishwasher to ensure it runs smoothly, smells fresh, and lasts longer. Here you can find out how to clean the dishwasher with Fair Appliance Repair Service.
Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Is Essential
You wouldn't wash your clothes in a dirty washing machine, so why let your dishes go through a grimy dishwasher? Over time, dishwashers accumulate:
👉 Grease from food
👉 Detergent residue
👉 Hard water minerals
👉 Mould and bacteria
Not cleaning your dishwasher regularly can lead to unpleasant odours, clogged spray arms, and even damage to internal components. Worse, it can leave your dishes less than sparkling.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher?
Every part of the dishwasher requires cleaning at different intervals. Let's break it down with a complete cleaning schedule.
Daily: Quick Rinse and Debris Removal
After each cycle, take 30 seconds to check the bottom of the dishwasher for leftover food debris or small objects like broken glass or seeds. Remove them to prevent clogging the filter or drain.
Bonus Tip: Leaving the door open after a wash allows air to circulate, preventing musty smells.
Weekly: Wipe Down the Door, Seals, and Edges
Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to wipe around the dishwasher door, especially the rubber gasket/seal. These areas collect moisture and can harbour mould or mildew.
Include:
✅ Dishwasher door edges
✅ Buttons and handle
✅ Rubber seals/gaskets
Monthly: Deep Clean with Vinegar or Dishwasher Cleaner
Once a month, deep-clean the interior to remove soap scum, hard water deposits, and grease.
👉 Vinegar Method: Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with white vinegar on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle without detergent.
👉 Baking Soda Boost: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda at the bottom and run a short cycle to deodorize.
Or use a commercial dishwasher cleaner for a more targeted cleaning.
Every 2–3 Months: Clean the Filter and Spray Arms
Most modern dishwashers have removable filters at the bottom. Twist and lift it out, then rinse under hot water and scrub with a soft brush.
Also, check the spray arms for clogs. Use a toothpick or thin wire to remove debris from spray holes.
Every 6 Months: Clean the Drain and Inspect the Inlet Valve
You could have a clogged drain or dirty valve if the water isn't draining properly. Use a flashlight to check for grime or foreign objects in the drain area.
If your dishwasher is connected to hard water, consider adding a water softener or using descaling products every few months.
Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Immediate Cleaning
Don't wait for a scheduled deep clean—if you notice any of the following, act fast:
👉 Dishes feel greasy or come out cloudy
👉 Foul or sour smell inside the unit
👉 Standing water at the bottom
👉 Mold or black residue on seals
👉 Noise during cycles that wasn't there before
If you need a service you can contact with professional dishwasher repair expert.
Dishwasher Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance
✅ Always scrape large food scraps off dishes before loading
✅ Avoid overloading racks—allow space for water to circulate
✅ Use a rinse aid to prevent spotting
✅ Choose high-quality, low-residue detergents
✅ Run hot water in the sink for 30 seconds before starting a cycle
These practices help reduce buildup and keep your appliance running like new
Final Thoughts: Don't Wait—Keep It Clean on a Schedule
A clean dishwasher equals cleaner dishes, better hygiene, and fewer repairs. Stick to a simple routine:
👉 Quick clean every day
👉 Wipe down weekly
👉 Deep clean monthly
👉 Filter & spray arms every 2–3 months.
👉 Drain and valves every 6 months
You'll extend the life of your dishwasher and ensure every load comes out spotless.
