How to Clean a Dishwasher the Right Way, According to a Cleaning Expert

Food debris lingering at the bottom of your dishwasher is the most common cause of bad odors. Take a few minutes after each dishwashing cycle to check for any remaining bits of food, paper, or small items that could have gotten stuck in the filter well or screen. Remove any reside with a paper towel to help prevent buildup.

Expert tip: To prevent a smelly dishwasher, wipe excess food from all items—silverware, bowls, plates, etc.—before loading the dishwasher. If you don't plan to run a cycle immediately, rinse dishes at the sink or run a rinse-only cycle. Always remove any labels or stickers from jars you may be reusing before running a cycle.

Prevent odors, mold, and bacteria growth by regularly wiping the dishwasher's interior, including the door, door gasket, and dispenser. You may also notice greasy residue or splatters on the handle or the dishwasher control buttons. Quickly wipe these areas with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge. Pay attention to the dispenser for any debris or undissolved detergent.

As for the door gasket and dispenser, gently scrub any gunk from the rubber seal around the door using an old soft toothbrush dipped in either warm, sudsy water or a mild all-purpose cleaner.

Every dishwasher has a filter typically found below the bottom spray arm—you'll need to pull out the bottom rack to reach it. If you're not sure how to find or remove it, check the owner's manual or manufacturer's website for details.

1. Unlock and remove the filter and rinse it under hot running water. You can also swish it in warm sudsy water.
2. Using a soft toothbrush, scrub the mesh screen and plastic frame to remove any grease or particles stuck in the crevices. Then rinse it clean.
3. Lock the filter back into place.

Expert Tip: Never operate your dishwasher without the filter properly locked, as you can cause severe damage to your machine and possibly void the warranty.

Consider this a monthly deep clean to remove any trapped particles, mineral buildup, or detergent residue hiding in your machine's internal parts and spray arms. Dishwasher cleaners, like Good Housekeeping Seal Star Cascade, are an easy fix, as they contain surfactants that dissolve and clean away trapped food bits and greasy residue. Use them according to the label's directions.

Expert Tip: Check the instructions before using any commercial dishwasher cleaner. Most require an empty dishwasher, but some can be used in the same cycle with dishes and detergent for even more convenient cleaning.

Fingerprints make any surface look dull and grimy, but they really stand out on stainless steel appliances. Use a stainless steel cleaner made specifically for appliances, like GH Seal Star Weiman, to shine up your dishwasher door and give it a protective finish. Not only does the cleaner leave behind a streak-free shine, but it also contains ingredients to help repel future dirt and smudges.

Expert Tip: Stay away from abrasive cleaners or pads that can scratch and mar your dishwasher's exterior. Always clean and wipe stainless steel in the direction of the metal's grain to avoid streaks.