Dishwashers are a favorite appliance in many kitchens.  To perform their best, they need to be kept clean. Dishwashers can be temperamental, although in actuality the cause of many problems that lead to calls for dishwasher repair is simply not keeping the dishwasher itself clean. Home appliance repair specialists recommend following the following tips for a clean dishwasher and to avoid unnecessary dishwasher repair services when it seems as if the dishwasher is not working the way it should.

Clean the Filter or Drain

A clogged and dirty dishwasher filter or drain can prevent water drainage or proper cleaning, leaving spots and food particles on the dishes. Keeping the filter clean is important for dishwasher efficiency and is not that difficult to do. If there is a filter, remove and rinse it thoroughly, then soak it in warm, soapy water for 10 or 20 minutes to soften anything stuck to it and rinse it again. If there is remaining residue, gently clean it with a toothbrush to remove the gunk and rinse it again. Remove the lower dish rack and clean the drain to ensure there is nothing stuck there.

These two things should be done frequently whenever any food is noticed inside the dishwasher.  It will keep the dishwasher cleaner and help it function more efficiently, avoiding the necessity to call dishwasher repair services.

Clean and Disinfect the Dishwasher

Despite the fact that dishwashers clean dishes, the appliances themselves also need to be regularly cleaned and disinfected. An easy, two-step cleaning done once a month is a great way to keep the inside of a dishwasher clean and smelling fresh so that dishes continue to come out clean, with little spotting or residue.

  • Step 1 - With dishwasher racks in place, pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher safe mug or bowl and set it on the top rack. Run a heavy clean cycle in the dishwasher. The hot water and the vinegar together are very effective at cleansing and degreasing the interior of the dishwasher.
  • Step 2 - Sprinkle a cup of baking soda over the bottom of the dishwasher, then let that sit overnight. In the morning, run another hot cleaning cycle. The baking soda removes odors and freshens the entire interior of the appliance.

Remove Mold and Mildew

Home appliance repair and maintenance companies suggest wiping door seals with vinegar and water or mild soap and water to remove any mold or mildew that may be growing. If there are areas in the washer that have not come clean using the previous two steps, use a toothbrush and baking soda to get them clean, then run another hot cycle. If there is a significant mold problem, running a heavy cycle with a cup of bleach in the bottom of the dishwasher can help, too. Do not use bleach inside dishwashers that have stainless steel interiors, since bleach can damage stainless steel.

These quick and easy steps done once a month help keep dishwashers functioning their best, leaving little reason for dishwasher repair calls due to dirty dishes or musty odors. To learn more about dishwasher cleaning and maintenance and how to keep a dishwasher performing properly, contact a trusted home appliance repair center today!

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