Dishwashers can start to smell, but there are simple cleaning routines to remedy it.
Dishwashers are a time-efficient and convenient appliance, but they can also be a source of unpleasant odors.
If not properly maintained, foul smells from a dishwasher can make eat-in kitchens an unsavory place.
Credit:Jason Donnelly
One of the most common is a buildup of food particles and debris in thedishwashers filterand spray arms.
If youre running a full cycle and the machine still smells, food is getting trapped somewhere.
you could prevent these smells by ensuring dishes are pre-rinsed before they run through a cleaning cycle.
Credit:Jason Donnelly
And after every cycle, initiate the empty dishwasher through a self-cleaning cycle with hot water and fresh lemon.
Standing or Hard Water
Another leading cause of dishwasher odors is standing water.
Clogged drains can cause standing water in the dishwasher or in the drain pipes.
Duane Miller, CEO of Stellar Plumbing, says fixing this issue is simple.
Regularly check the drain for any clogs to ensure proper drainage.
Also, watch out for mineral buildup from hard water, which canlead to unpleasant odors.
If the problem keeps coming back, you may need to treat hard water coming into your home.
Still, you should also beware of putting anything in a dishwasher that isnt cookware.
Glues, glitters, and gunk can clog drains and cause standing water.
Moldy or Old Dishwashers
Miller says another cause of unpleasant odor is a moldy orold dishwasher.
If it has been in full use over many years, it may be beyond its expiration date.
If thats the case, it may simply be time to replace it.
Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments.
He recommends regularly cleaning the dishwasher with a vinegar and water solution ordishwasher cleaner.
Leave the dishwasher door open after a cycle to air it out to dry, he adds.
Also, check the manufacturers manual to understand when the dishwasher is set to be replaced.
Miller recommends regular and thorough cleaning of your dishwasher.
Sokolowski says two natural solutions can easily eliminate dishwasher odors.
This formula washes away bacteria and prevents mineral buildup.
The second is to trigger the dishwasher on a hot water cycle with a cup of lemon juice.
Both help your hard-working appliance break down any leftover food and oils that might build up in hard-to-reach places.
