Cleaning Your Dishwasher: A Simple Checklist
Have you ever cleaned the dishwasher in your home? While it may seem counter-intuitive, in order for it to run efficiently and effectively, you need to clean it regularly. Imagine this: your vacuum is completely full of dirt and debris, yet you continue to use it, but to no avail. Your dishwasher is similar in this way. Day after day it works to clean the dirt and grime from your dishes; it’s only a matter of time before it needs cleaning too. Today, show your dishwasher how thankful you are for it by giving it a good clean after cooking your loved one a delicious meal!
1. Clean the Drain
To access the dishwasher drain, you will need to first detach the bottom rack. Thoroughly inspect the drain and remove any buildups you find. For precautionary measures, you may want to wear cleaning gloves.
If left alone, any type of buildup – whether it be a buildup of food or scum, can damage your appliance, not to mention it will lead to inefficiency.
2. Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Vinegar, while it may not carry a pleasant smell, is one of the most effective cleaners. Simply fill a dishwasher-safe container with white vinegar, and place it on the upper rack. Set your dishwasher to run on a hot water cycle.
Once the cycle has finished, you will find that your dishwasher is sparkling-clean, free of the dirt and grime you once saw. Further, if there was a hint of a musty odor before, it too should be gone too.
Alternate Cleaning Method:
Instead of vinegar, you can opt to use a lemonade packet. Yep, you heard that right! Stick with the regular lemonade, though; other flavors can leave a stain. You probably don’t want a salmon pink-colored dishwasher!
Pour the single packet of lemonade into where you’d normally pour your detergent.
3. Run a Hot Water Cycle with Baking Soda
Take a cup of baking soda and pour it onto the bottom of your dishwasher, and run a short hot water cycle. When the cycle has finished, you will open the door to a fresh-smelling dishwasher!
Professional Plumbers Near The OC
Moffett Plumbing & Air is your go-to plumbing company in Orange County. Our professionally trained plumbers can help you diagnose any issues with your existing dishwasher, and can help you determine whether it’s time for a replacement. Every step of the way, you can count on your neighbors at Moffett. If you’re in the OC, how can we help you, today?