How to clean the dishwasher in 4 simple steps

A dishwasher is undoubtedly a great addition to every kitchen. Not only is it useful after a big meal or a party, but it also makes everyday washing up a lot easier. However, since your dishwasher does such a good job of cleaning your dishes, it is sometimes easy to forget that it might need a little cleaning itself…

If you’re wondering how to clean a dishwasher, these tips will help you keep your favourite kitchen gadget in great shape – so you won’t have to wash food-stained plates by hand anytime soon!

After a dishwashing cycle has finished, it’s a good idea to quickly clean the filter and remove any particles of food or debris that may have collected at the bottom of the machine.

Cleaning a dishwasher in 4 simple steps

1. Get prepared for dishwasher cleaning

• Make sure the machine is empty.

• Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands.

• Remove all the utensil holders and racks within the dishwasher.

• Remove any graters, filters, or other parts that can be removed from within the dishwasher.

• Remove as much food residue stuck to the dishwasher parts as you can reach.

2. Clean the dishwasher doors

• Wipe the outside of the door with hot water to remove any fingerprints or dirt that may have accumulated.

• Move on to the inside of the door, using a small amount of liquid soap (we recommend Sunlight washing up liquid) and hot water to remove any built-up grease stains.

• Always follow any instructions on your product’s label and to rinse thoroughly when cleaning dishwasher doors.

3. Clean inside the dishwasher

• Mix one part vinegar with five parts water to create a great dishwasher cleaner.

• Soak a cloth in the solution and wipe the inside of the dishwasher.

• Place all the dishwasher parts in the sink or a bowl or bucket filled with the vinegar solution to clean them.

• Tiny bits of stuck-on food can be the toughest stains to tackle. Use a soft brush to give you extra scrubbing power or let the stains soak for a few minutes to make them easier to remove.

4. Run a deep-clean dishwasher cycle

• Put the racks and other parts back inside the dishwasher.

• Place a cup filled with white vinegar on one of the racks inside the dishwasher, and run a full cycle with the hottest water possible. Alternatively, you can use a product specifically designed to clean the dishwasher. Just follow the directions on the label. 

• When the cycle is finished, you’ll have a clean appliance!

Knowing how to clean a dishwasher will soon become second nature – so there really is no excuse for leaving the dirty dishes to pile up!

Do you want to learn which household cleaning tasks cause the most stress?  Then read our Heated Household data analysis.