Gather the necessary supplies
Before you begin cleaning the inside of your dishwasher, gather the necessary supplies. You will need white vinegar, baking soda, a soft cloth or sponge, and a toothbrush or small scrub brush. These common household items will help you effectively clean the dishwasher.
Remove and clean the dishwasher racks and filter
The first step in cleaning the inside of your dishwasher is to remove the dishwasher racks and clean them separately. Remove the racks from the dishwasher and wash them with warm, soapy water. Use a toothbrush or small scrub brush to remove any built-up grime or debris.
Next, locate the dishwasher filter, which is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water to remove any food particles or residue. If the filter is especially dirty, soak it in white vinegar for a few minutes before rinsing.
Clean the spray arms and nozzles
The spray arms and nozzles of your dishwasher can become clogged with food particles, debris, or calcium build-up over time. To clean them, remove the spray arms from the dishwasher, if possible.
Soak the spray arms in a mixture of white vinegar and warm water for about 15 minutes to help loosen any residue. After soaking, use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the spray arms and nozzles, paying special attention to any clogged or blocked openings.
Clean the interior walls and door
Once you have removed and cleaned the dishwasher racks, filter, spray arms, and nozzles, it’s time to clean the interior walls and door of the dishwasher. Start by wiping down the interior walls with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water.
Pay close attention to any areas with built-up grime or residue. Use a toothbrush or small scrub brush to gently scrub any stubborn spots. Rinse the walls with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
Next, clean the dishwasher door. Wipe down the inside of the door with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water, focusing on any areas with stains or residue. Rinse the door with clean water and dry thoroughly to prevent any water spots.
Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda
Once you have cleaned the various components of your dishwasher, it’s important to run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda to remove any remaining residue or odors.
To do this, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack of the dishwasher. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Close the dishwasher and run a regular cycle on the hottest setting.
The vinegar and baking soda will work together to break down any remaining grime or residue, leaving your dishwasher clean and fresh. Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and allow it to air dry before using it again.