Bad Dishwasher Smells? Here's How to Fix It

A dishwasher should leave your dishes clean and fresh, but sometimes, unpleasant smells can linger in your machine. These odours are often caused by food particles, grease, or mould buildup inside the dishwasher. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can eliminate bad dishwasher smells and keep your appliance smelling fresh. Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying the cause of the odours and getting rid of them for good.

1. Clean the Filter Regularly

The filter in your dishwasher catches food particles and debris to prevent them from clogging the drain. Over time, these particles can accumulate, creating an unpleasant odour.

How to Clean the Filter:

Locate the Filter: Most dishwasher filters are located at the bottom of the appliance. Check your manual for specifics.
Remove the Filter: Take out the filter by twisting or pulling it out, depending on your model.
Rinse and Scrub: Rinse the filter under warm water and scrub with a soft brush or sponge to remove any debris or grease.
Reinstall the Filter: Once clean, place the filter back in its position.

Tip: Clean the filter once a month to prevent smells from building up.

2. Check and Clean the Spray Arms

Spray arms distribute water throughout the dishwasher, and they can get clogged with food particles or mineral deposits over time, which can contribute to smells.

How to Clean the Spray Arms:

Remove the Spray Arms: Check your manual for instructions on how to remove the spray arms.
Clean the Nozzles: Use a toothpick or small brush to clear out any food particles or debris blocking the holes in the spray arms.
Rinse and Reattach: Rinse the spray arms under warm water and reattach them.

Tip: Clean the spray arms every few months to ensure proper water flow and reduce smells.

3. Clean the Door Seals

The rubber door seals (or gaskets) around the dishwasher door can trap food particles, soap scum, and grease, leading to foul odours over time.

How to Clean the Door Seals:

Wipe with a Damp Cloth: Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild dish soap to wipe down the door seals and the edges of the door.
Scrub Stubborn Spots: For tough spots, use a toothbrush to gently scrub away grime and food particles.
Rinse and Dry: Wipe the seals with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then dry with a paper towel.

Tip: Clean the door seals every few weeks to prevent odours from developing.

4. Run a Vinegar Cleaning Cycle

Vinegar is a natural deodoriser that can help break down grease, soap scum, and odours inside your dishwasher.

How to Run a Vinegar Cycle:

Place a Bowl of Vinegar: Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with 1 cup of white vinegar and place it on the top rack of an empty dishwasher.
Run a Hot Cycle: Run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle to help dissolve grease and residue.
Rinse: After the cycle, check for any lingering smells. Repeat if necessary.

Tip: Run a vinegar cleaning cycle once a month to keep your dishwasher fresh and free from odours.

5. Sprinkle Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great odour neutraliser and can help absorb any remaining smells in your dishwasher after cleaning.

How to Use Baking Soda:

Sprinkle Baking Soda: After running a vinegar cycle, sprinkle about 1 cup of baking soda over the bottom of the dishwasher.
Run a Short Hot Cycle: Run a short cycle with hot water to rinse away the baking soda and neutralise odours.

Tip: Baking soda is safe for most dishwashers and can be used every few weeks for freshness.

6. Clean the Drain

If the dishwasher drain is clogged or blocked by food particles, it can cause bad smells as food and water stagnate at the bottom.

How to Clean the Drain:

Inspect the Drain: Check the drain at the bottom of the dishwasher for any visible food particles or debris.
Remove Debris: Carefully clear out any obstructions with a paper towel or cloth.
Use a Dishwasher Cleaner: To thoroughly clean the drain and pipes, consider running a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner.

Tip: Keep the drain clean by checking for food debris after each load and removing it promptly.

7. Use a Dishwasher Deodoriser

If bad smells persist despite regular cleaning, you may want to use a dishwasher deodoriser. These deodorisers are specifically designed to neutralise odours in dishwashers and leave a fresh scent.

How to Use a Dishwasher Deodoriser:

Choose a Suitable Product: There are various dishwasher deodorisers available, including tablets, fresheners, and liquid cleaners.
Follow Instructions: Place the deodoriser in the dishwasher according to the product instructions.
Run a Cycle: Run a normal cycle to spread the deodoriser throughout the dishwasher.

Tip: Avoid using strongly scented products, as they may leave an overpowering scent on your dishes.

8. Tips for Preventing Dishwasher Odours

Rinse Dishes: Scrape or rinse food scraps off your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
Run Hot Water: Run hot water in the sink before starting your dishwasher to ensure it fills with hot water from the start.
Leave the Door Open: After each wash, leave the dishwasher door slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent moisture build-up.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the filter, spray arms, and door seals regularly to prevent odours from developing over time.

Conclusion

A smelly dishwasher doesn’t have to be a persistent problem. With regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter, spray arms, and door seals, and running vinegar and baking soda cycles, you can eliminate bad smells and keep your dishwasher fresh. Taking preventive steps like rinsing dishes and leaving the door slightly open will also help ensure that your dishwasher stays odour-free for longer.