How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher? Sacramento's Guide to Deep Cleaning & Maintenance

If you've ever opened your dishwasher only to be greeted by musty smells or cloudy dishes, you're not alone. These are signs that your dishwasher desperately needs cleaning. In Sacramento households—especially those in areas like Elk Grove, Natomas, and Arden Arcade—hard water and daily use can make things worse. So, how often should you clean your dishwasher, and what’s the best way to maintain it? Let’s dive into this step-by-step dishwasher cleaning guide brought to you by Fair Appliance Repair.

Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Is So Important

Many people assume dishwashers clean themselves. That’s a dangerous myth. Over time, food particles, soap scum, grease, and even mold can build up in your dishwasher’s filter, spray arms, gasket, and drain. This buildup can cause:

Bad odors

Clogged drains

Inefficient spray patterns

Dishes that come out dirty or streaky

Increased wear and tear

Tip: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your dishwasher by several years.

📅 Recommended Dishwasher Cleaning Schedule (For Sacramento Homes)

Component

Cleaning Frequency

Dishwasher Filter

Every 2–3 Weeks

Spray Arms

Once a Month

Interior Deep Clean

Monthly

Door Gasket and Seal

Monthly

Drain & Inlet Valve

Every 2–3 Months

Exterior (Buttons, Panel)

Weekly Wipe-Down

Homeowners in Sacramento, especially those near downtown or in hard water zones like Citrus Heights and Arden Arcade, may need to clean more frequently.

🧽 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Dishwasher Filter and Spray Arms

Step 1: Remove & Rinse the Filter

👉 Locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher.

👉 Twist and lift it out carefully.

👉 Rinse under warm water.

👉 Scrub gently with an old toothbrush to remove grime.

Step 2: Clean Spray Arms

✔ Detach the lower and upper spray arms.

✔ Use a toothpick or small brush to unclog holes

✔ Rinse thoroughly.

Pro Tip: If your spray arms feel slimy, soak them in vinegar before scrubbing.

🌿 Natural Dishwasher Cleaning: Vinegar & Baking Soda

Looking for a chemical-free solution? Here's a natural way to deep clean your dishwasher.

How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar (Interior Cleaning)

✅ Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl.

✅ Place it on the top rack.

✅ Run a hot water cycle with no detergent.

Optional: Add Baking Soda

✅ After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom.

✅ Run a short, hot cycle.

This removes odors and whitens your dishwasher’s interior.

💧 How to Clean the Drain & Inlet Valve

If your dishwasher is not draining properly or the water supply seems weak:

✔ Remove the lower front panel.

✔ Check for clogs in the drain hose.

✔ Inspect the inlet valve for debris.

Warning: Always unplug the unit before removing any parts.

🔍 Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Immediate Cleaning

👉 Persistent bad odors

👉 Water pooling at the bottom after cycles

👉 Dishes not coming out clean

✅ Mold or slime around the door seal

✅ Visible debris in the filter

If you notice these, it’s time to clean or call in a local dishwasher technician.

🧼 Bonus Tips: Dishwasher Gasket and Door Seal Cleaning

✔ Mix warm water with mild soap.

✔ Use a cloth or soft brush to scrub around the gasket.

✔ Dry thoroughly to prevent mold growth.

Tip: Don’t forget to clean the detergent dispenser and rinse aid cap.

📍 Local Sacramento Dishwasher Maintenance Solutions

Whether you live near Elk Grove, downtown Sacramento, or Arden Arcade—Fair Appliance Repair offers professional dishwasher inspection, cleaning, and repair.