To clean a dishwasher, empty it, remove and clean the filter if your model has one, check the spray arms, wipe the door gasket and edges, clean the interior, and run a dishwasher-cleaning cycle approved for your appliance. Regular maintenance can help reduce food residue, grease, odors, and mineral buildup while supporting better washing performance.
How to Clean a Dishwasher Step by Step
The best way to clean a dishwasher is to start with trapped food and removable components, then clean the spray arms, door gasket, interior, and exterior before finishing with an approved cleaning cycle.
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher and Inspect the Bottom
Start with an empty dishwasher and allow it to cool before reaching inside.
Remove dishes and utensils, then take out racks or accessories only if the owner’s manual says they are removable.
Inspect the bottom of the dishwasher for food particles, labels, pieces of plastic, or other loose debris. Wear gloves when cleaning the bottom because small pieces of broken glass or sharp debris can sometimes collect near the filter or drain area.
Remove visible debris carefully without forcing or dismantling components that are not designed for user removal.
Step 2: Clean the Dishwasher Filter
Cleaning the dishwasher filter is one of the most important maintenance steps because the filter catches food particles that can otherwise contribute to odors, poor cleaning results, or drainage problems.
The filter is commonly located near the bottom of the dishwasher, often beneath or near the lower spray arm. However, filter designs and removal methods vary between models.
Remove the filter according to your owner’s manual. Rinse it under running water and use mild soap and a soft brush when necessary to loosen food residue.
Avoid knives, wire brushes, steel wool, and other abrasive or sharp tools that could damage the filter.
For model-specific instructions, review the official Bosch dishwasher filter cleaning guidance before removing the filter.
Before reinstalling the filter, make sure it is positioned correctly and securely locked.
Step 3: Check the Spray Arms
Dishwasher spray arms distribute water throughout the machine, so blocked openings can affect how thoroughly dishes are cleaned.
Rotate each accessible spray arm gently and make sure it can move freely without hitting dishes or utensils.
Inspect the small openings for visible food particles or mineral buildup.
When your dishwasher manual permits it, remove the spray arm and rinse it. A small soft brush or wooden toothpick can help loosen visible debris near the openings.
Do not use knives, needles, or other metal objects to clear the spray holes.
For additional model-specific guidance, see Bosch’s dishwasher cleaning and maintenance instructions.
Step 4: Clean the Dishwasher Door Gasket and Edges
The dishwasher’s main cycle does not necessarily remove all residue from the rubber gasket, door edges, hinges, detergent compartment, or lower door area.
These areas can collect grease, food residue, detergent film, and moisture.
Use warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap on a microfiber cloth.
Wipe the gasket gently, including the folds and corners. Clean the inner door edges and other areas where food, grease, detergent film, and moisture collect.
Do not pull or stretch the rubber seal.
A clean gasket can also help you identify physical damage. If the seal is cracked, loose, or no longer closes properly, cleaning will not repair it.
Step 5: Clean the Dishwasher Interior
Once the filter, spray arms, and door gasket have been checked, clean visible residue from the interior walls, bottom, rack supports, and other accessible surfaces.
Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap or a dishwasher-safe cleaning product appropriate for your appliance.
Focus on grease, food residue, detergent film, and mineral deposits.
Do not aggressively scrape buildup with a knife or metal tool. Dishwasher interiors can contain stainless steel, plastic, coatings, and seals that require different care.
For heavier buildup, a dishwasher cleaner or descaler approved for your appliance is often a more predictable option than experimenting with strong household chemicals.
For guidance on cleaning the interior, Whirlpool provides official dishwasher cleaning instructions.
Step 6: Run a Dishwasher Cleaning Cycle
After cleaning the accessible parts, run an empty cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner approved for your appliance.
Follow the dishwasher cleaner’s label and your dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions.
A dedicated dishwasher cleaner can help address interior grease, residue, and mineral buildup that ordinary wash cycles may not remove completely.
Some manufacturers also provide approved cleaning procedures using household ingredients such as vinegar or baking soda. Because appliance designs and materials vary, these methods should be treated as model-specific alternatives rather than universal rules.
Whirlpool currently describes separate vinegar and baking soda cleaning cycles for applicable dishwashers in its official dishwasher cleaning guide.
Step 7: Clean the Dishwasher Exterior
Finish by cleaning the outside of the dishwasher.
For plastic or painted surfaces, use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap when appropriate.
For stainless-steel exteriors, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and use a product approved for stainless steel when needed.
Avoid abrasive powders, steel wool, rough sponges, and unsuitable chlorine-based products that may damage some finishes.
Do not spray cleaner directly into electronic controls. Apply the cleaner to the cloth instead.
For additional guidance, see Consumer Reports’ dishwasher cleaning advice.
Where Is the Dishwasher Filter?
The dishwasher filter is commonly located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often beneath or near the lower spray arm.
The exact filter design and removal process vary by model. Some filters twist and lift out, while others use different locking systems.
Always check the owner’s manual before removing the filter. Forcing a filter or using tools that are not recommended can damage the locking mechanism or filter assembly.
Bosch provides official dishwasher filter instructions, while Samsung also explains that filter designs and cleaning procedures vary by model in its dishwasher maintenance guidance.
How Often Should You Clean a Dishwasher?
A practical dishwasher-cleaning routine is to inspect the filter regularly, clean it whenever food debris or buildup accumulates, wipe the gasket periodically, and deep-clean the dishwasher about monthly unless the manufacturer recommends another schedule.
A simple maintenance schedule looks like this:
| Task | Practical Frequency |
| Remove visible food debris | After loads when needed |
| Check the filter | About weekly |
| Clean the filter | When buildup is visible or according to the owner’s manual |
| Wipe the gasket and door edges | Weekly or as needed |
| Check spray-arm openings | Monthly or when dishes are not cleaning properly |
| Deep-clean the dishwasher | About monthly or according to manufacturer guidance |
There is no single schedule that applies to every dishwasher. Manufacturer recommendations vary according to appliance design, model, usage, and water conditions.
For example, Bosch provides model-specific dishwasher maintenance guidance, while Samsung recommends cleaning the filter when debris accumulates and following the instructions for the specific appliance.
How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher
The best way to clean a smelly dishwasher is to start with the filter, drain area, spray arms, gasket, and visible food residue before running an approved cleaning cycle.
Food particles trapped in the filter can contribute to unpleasant odors. Bosch’s dishwasher odor guidance recommends checking and cleaning the filter when addressing dishwasher smells.
Follow these steps:
- Empty the dishwasher.
- Clean the filter.
- Remove visible food and debris from the bottom.
- Wipe the door gasket and edges.
- Check the spray arms.
- Clean visible residue from the interior.
- Run an approved dishwasher-cleaning cycle.
A strong sewage-like smell, repeated standing water, or an odor that returns immediately after cleaning may indicate a drainage or plumbing problem rather than a simple cleaning issue.
How to Remove Grease, Food Residue, and Buildup
The most effective way to remove grease and food residue is to clean the filter and accessible surfaces first, then use an approved dishwasher-cleaning product or cycle.
Start with the filter because it collects food particles and grease.
For greasy surfaces, use a microfiber cloth with mild soap where appropriate for the appliance. Rinse the cloth regularly so grease is not simply spread to another area.
For heavier buildup, use a dishwasher cleaner designed for machine cleaning and follow its label.
Do not use ordinary hand-washing dish soap during a dishwasher cycle. Regular dish soap can produce excessive foam and may cause leaks or other problems.
How to Remove Hard-Water Buildup
Hard-water buildup can appear as white, cloudy, chalky, or crusty deposits inside the dishwasher and may contribute to spots or film on glassware.
The safest approach is to use a dishwasher descaler approved for your appliance and follow the product instructions.
Do not scrape mineral deposits with knives or metal tools.
For manufacturer-specific guidance, review Bosch’s dishwasher cleaning and maintenance information.
If your dishwasher has settings for water hardness, rinse aid, or water softening, use the owner’s manual before changing them.
Using more detergent is not necessarily the answer to hard-water problems. Follow the detergent and dishwasher manufacturer’s recommended amount.
How to Clean Dishwasher Spray Arms
Clean dishwasher spray arms by checking that they rotate freely, inspecting their openings for debris, and rinsing or removing them only according to the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
Food particles and mineral deposits can restrict water flow through the small openings.
Start by rotating each spray arm gently. Make sure tall cookware, utensils, or other dishes are not blocking its movement.
When the model permits removal, rinse the spray arm and clear visible debris with a soft brush or wooden toothpick.
Avoid metal tools that may damage the openings.
See the Bosch dishwasher cleaning instructions or Samsung’s dishwasher maintenance guidance for model-specific procedures.
How to Clean the Dishwasher Door Gasket
Clean the dishwasher door gasket with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth to remove grease, food residue, and moisture buildup.
Gently wipe along the full seal, especially the folds and corners.
The gasket should not be stretched, pulled, or aggressively scrubbed.
A damaged gasket should be replaced rather than repeatedly cleaned. Cracks, loose sections, or a poor seal can affect the dishwasher’s ability to close properly and may allow water to escape.
How to Clean the Dishwasher Drain Area
Clean the accessible dishwasher drain area by removing visible food debris and keeping the filter and surrounding area free of buildup.
The drain area is closely connected to the filter and water-flow system, so start by cleaning the filter rather than pouring random drain chemicals into the appliance.
Never use multiple drain products or household chemicals together.
If the dishwasher repeatedly leaves excessive standing water after the filter and accessible drain area are cleaned, follow the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions or contact a qualified appliance technician.
A slow or blocked drain may be a plumbing or appliance problem rather than a surface-cleaning problem.
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean a Dishwasher?
Vinegar can be used in some dishwashers, but it should not be treated as a universal dishwasher cleaner.
Whirlpool currently describes using white vinegar during an empty cycle for applicable dishwashers and provides the method in its official dishwasher cleaning guide.
Whirlpool also warns that vinegar is acidic and that frequent use may damage some dishwasher materials.
Before using vinegar, check your dishwasher’s owner’s manual.
Do not pour vinegar directly onto rubber gaskets or assume that the same amount is safe for every appliance.
Can You Use Baking Soda in a Dishwasher?
Baking soda can be part of some manufacturer-approved dishwasher-cleaning methods, but it is not necessary for every machine.
Whirlpool currently describes baking soda as a separate cycle after a vinegar cleaning cycle for applicable dishwashers. See the official Whirlpool instructions for the specific procedure.
For the most predictable approach, use a dishwasher cleaner designed for your appliance and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
Can You Use Bleach in a Dishwasher?
Do not use bleach in a dishwasher unless the manufacturer specifically permits it for your model and materials.
Bleach may be unsuitable for some dishwasher interiors and components, particularly stainless-steel parts.
More importantly, never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or another cleaning product. The CDC warns that mixing bleach with other cleaners can release dangerous vapors. Review the CDC’s bleach safety guidance before using bleach for household cleaning.
What Not to Use in a Dishwasher
The safest dishwasher-cleaning routine avoids products and tools that may damage filters, seals, interior finishes, or electronic components.
Unless the manufacturer specifically approves them, avoid:
- Steel wool
- Wire brushes
- Knives or metal scrapers
- Rough scouring pads
- Abrasive powders
- Strong acidic cleaners that are not approved for the appliance
- Chlorine-based products on surfaces that do not permit them
- Regular hand-washing dish soap during a wash cycle
- Random mixtures of household chemicals
The goal is to remove food residue, grease, odors, and mineral buildup without damaging the dishwasher.
Common Dishwasher Cleaning Mistakes
Cleaning Only the Main Tub
A dishwasher can look clean while food residue remains inside the filter, gasket, spray arms, or drain area.
Ignoring the Filter
A clogged or heavily soiled filter can interfere with water flow and allow food particles to remain in the system.
For additional filter-care information, review the Bosch dishwasher filter guide.
Using Too Much Detergent
More detergent does not automatically mean cleaner dishes.
Excess detergent can leave film or residue. Follow the detergent and appliance manufacturer’s instructions for the amount to use.
Overloading the Dishwasher
Dishes need enough space for water to circulate.
Keep tall cookware and utensils from blocking spray arms, and load dishes according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Pre-Rinsing Every Dish Automatically
Not every dishwasher requires extensive pre-rinsing.
Some manufacturers recommend scraping off large food debris rather than completely rinsing every dish before loading.
Bosch, for example, recommends scraping off larger food particles and provides additional guidance in its dishwasher cleaning troubleshooting information.
Removing Parts Without Checking the Manual
Filter and spray-arm designs vary considerably between models.
Do not force a component that does not release as expected.
Mixing Cleaning Products
Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or another cleaner or disinfectant. See the CDC’s household bleach safety guidance for more information.
Ignoring Persistent Standing Water
A small amount of water may occur in some dishwasher designs, but excessive standing water or repeated drainage issues should be investigated.
How to Keep Your Dishwasher Cleaner for Longer
The easiest way to maintain a cleaner dishwasher is to reduce food debris, keep the filter clear, and regularly inspect the components that the main wash cycle does not completely clean.
Scrape Large Food Debris From Dishes
Remove larger pieces of food before loading the dishwasher.
Avoid assuming that every dish must be thoroughly pre-rinsed unless your appliance instructions call for it.
Load the Dishwasher Correctly
Leave sufficient space between dishes so water can reach the surfaces.
Make sure tall items and utensils do not stop spray arms from rotating.
Check the Filter Regularly
Inspect the filter before it becomes heavily coated with food particles.
Cleaning small amounts of buildup regularly is easier than waiting until the filter becomes heavily soiled.
Keep Spray Arms Clear
Make sure the spray arms rotate freely and that their openings are not visibly blocked.
Wipe the Gasket
A quick wipe around the door gasket can prevent grease and food residue from accumulating in areas that may not receive direct spray.
Use the Recommended Detergent and Rinse Aid
Follow your appliance and detergent manufacturer’s recommendations.
Using the correct amount is more useful than simply adding more detergent.
Run the Dishwasher Regularly
When a dishwasher remains closed with wet food residue inside for long periods, odors can become more noticeable.
Removing debris and following an appropriate maintenance routine can help keep the machine fresher.
When Dishwasher Cleaning Is Not Enough
Cleaning can solve ordinary residue, odors, and minor buildup, but it cannot repair mechanical, electrical, drainage, or structural problems.
Contact a qualified appliance technician when you notice:
- Persistent standing water
- Repeated drainage problems
- Water leaking onto the floor
- Burning or electrical odors
- Unusual grinding or mechanical noises
- Repeated error codes
- A damaged door seal
- A dishwasher that will not start
- Dishes that remain dirty despite correct loading and regular maintenance
Do not open electrical panels or attempt electrical repairs unless you have the necessary training.
When to Hire a Professional House Cleaner
Cleaning the dishwasher is only one part of keeping a kitchen clean.
When grease, crumbs, dust, fingerprints, and buildup have spread across countertops, sinks, floors, cabinets, appliances, and other areas of the home, professional house cleaning can take care of the larger workload.
BA House Cleaning offers Deep Cleaning Services for homes that need a more detailed, top-to-bottom cleaning rather than routine maintenance.
For ongoing maintenance, Recurring Cleaning Services are available on weekly, biweekly, or monthly schedules.
Professional house cleaning does not replace appliance repair. It is most useful when the dishwasher works properly but the surrounding kitchen and home need consistent cleaning.
Dishwasher Cleaning Quick Reference
| Problem | First Area to Check | Next Step |
| Bad smell | Filter and gasket | Remove residue and run an approved cleaning cycle |
| Dirty dishes | Filter and spray arms | Clear debris and check loading |
| Cloudy glassware | Mineral buildup | Check water-hardness settings and use an approved descaler |
| Greasy interior | Filter and interior walls | Clean residue and use an approved dishwasher cleaner |
| Standing water | Filter and drain area | Follow manufacturer troubleshooting |
| Door leaking | Gasket and door seal | Inspect for damage and contact a technician if necessary |
| White deposits | Interior and spray arms | Use a manufacturer-approved descaler |
This table is a starting point, not a substitute for the owner’s manual because dishwasher designs vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning a Dishwasher
How do I clean a dishwasher?
Empty the dishwasher, clean the filter, check the spray arms, wipe the door gasket and edges, clean visible interior residue, and run a dishwasher-cleaning cycle approved for your appliance.
Always check the owner’s manual before removing components or using vinegar, baking soda, bleach, or other specialized products.
Where is the filter in a dishwasher?
The filter is commonly located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often beneath or near the lower spray arm.
The exact design varies by model, so check the owner’s manual before removing it. Bosch provides official dishwasher filter instructions.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
Check the filter regularly, such as weekly, and clean it whenever food debris or buildup is visible.
The exact manufacturer-recommended interval varies by model and usage, so follow the owner’s manual.
Why does my dishwasher smell bad?
A bad dishwasher smell is often associated with trapped food debris, buildup, or moisture around the filter, drain area, spray arms, or door gasket.
Start by cleaning these areas before using an approved dishwasher-cleaning cycle. Bosch provides dishwasher odor guidance.
Why are my dishes still dirty after cleaning the dishwasher?
Check the filter, spray arms, loading arrangement, and detergent usage.
Blocked spray openings, a dirty filter, overloaded racks, or incorrect detergent use can affect washing performance.
If the problem continues after routine maintenance, the dishwasher may need appliance service.
How do I clean dishwasher spray arms?
Check that the spray arms rotate freely and inspect the openings for visible debris.
When your model permits removal, rinse the arms and gently clear openings with a soft brush or wooden toothpick.
How do I clean a dishwasher filter?
Remove the filter according to the appliance manual, rinse it under running water, and use mild soap and a soft brush when needed.
Avoid sharp or abrasive tools that could damage the filter. Bosch provides official filter-cleaning instructions.
Can I use vinegar to clean a dishwasher?
Some dishwasher manufacturers permit vinegar for occasional cleaning, while others recommend dedicated dishwasher cleaners instead.
Whirlpool currently describes vinegar as one option for applicable models in its official dishwasher cleaning guide but warns that frequent use may damage the appliance.
Can I use baking soda in a dishwasher?
Baking soda can be part of some manufacturer-approved cleaning procedures.
Whirlpool currently describes baking soda as a separate cycle following a vinegar cycle for applicable machines. (Whirlpool dishwasher cleaning instructions)
Can I use bleach in a dishwasher?
Only use bleach when the dishwasher manufacturer specifically permits it for your model.
Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other cleaning products because dangerous vapors can be released. Review the CDC’s bleach safety guidance.
How do I remove hard-water buildup from a dishwasher?
Use a dishwasher descaler approved for your appliance and follow the product instructions.
Do not scrape mineral deposits with knives or metal tools. If the dishwasher has water-hardness or water-softening settings, follow the owner’s manual.
How often should you deep clean a dishwasher?
A monthly deep clean is a practical starting point for many households, but the correct schedule depends on the dishwasher model, usage, food residue, and water conditions.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations when they differ.
Is it necessary to pre-rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher?
Not necessarily.
Some manufacturers recommend scraping off large food particles rather than completely pre-rinsing dishes. Bosch provides specific guidance on loading and pre-rinsing.
Can a dirty dishwasher cause dishes to smell?
Yes. Trapped food residue, grease, and buildup inside the filter, drain area, gasket, or other components can contribute to unpleasant odors.
Cleaning the filter and other accessible areas is a good first step when dishes or the dishwasher itself develop an unwanted smell.
How to Clean a Dishwasher Properly
Learning how to clean a dishwasher does not require a complicated collection of household chemicals.
Start with the filter and food debris, then check the spray arms, gasket, drain area, and interior before running an approved dishwasher-cleaning cycle.
Regular inspections and cleaning can help reduce food residue, grease, odors, mineral buildup, and washing problems. The safest routine is to use the correct tools and products for your particular dishwasher instead of assuming that every appliance should be cleaned the same way.
When the dishwasher is only one part of a home that needs attention, BA House Cleaning provides Deep Cleaning Services for more detailed cleaning and Recurring Cleaning Services for ongoing home maintenance in Oakland and surrounding East Bay communities.
