Nobody likes opening their dishwasher only to be hit with a bad smell. If your dishwasher has started to stink, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Smelly dishwashers are a pretty common issue, and thankfully, there’s usually a simple fix before you need to repair the dishwasher.
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First things first, check the filter. Many people don’t realize that dishwashers have a filter at the bottom that catches food bits and debris. If this filter gets clogged or dirty, it can cause some serious smells. Take it out, rinse it under hot water, and clean off any gunk with an old toothbrush or sponge. You’ll be amazed at the difference this can make.
Next, give the inside a good clean. Wipe down the walls, door, and seal with a damp cloth and a mix of water and white vinegar. Food and grease can build up in hidden corners, especially around the rubber door seal, so don’t skip this part.
Now, on to the drain. If water isn’t draining properly, leftover food can sit and rot at the bottom of your machine. Make sure the drain is clear. You can usually see this part yourself, but if you notice a lot of standing water, you might need to take a closer look or ask someone for help.
Running a cleaning cycle once a month can help keep smells away. Put a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack, and run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle. The vinegar helps cut through grease and wipes out lingering odors. For extra cleaning power, sprinkle some baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle the next day.
Also, leave the door open a crack when the dishwasher isn’t in use. This helps the inside dry out and reduces the chance of mold or mildew growing.
If smells keep coming back even after cleaning, consider what you're loading. Dishes with large chunks of food can clog the filter and trap bits that rot over time. Scrape off food before loading—no need to rinse, just a quick scrape will help a lot.
With regular cleaning and a few simple habits, you can keep your dishwasher fresh and ready to tackle your dirty dishes. A little effort now saves you from bigger problems later!