Deep Clean Dishwasher
Why It Matters
Mineral deposits and food particles reduce cleaning performance and cause odors. Regular cleaning keeps dishes truly clean.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: basic tools. Materials required: White vinegar or dishwasher cleaner.
- 2
Perform the deep clean dishwasher
Clean the filter, spray arms, and run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace.
Tools & Materials
Materials
- White vinegar or dishwasher cleaner
Community Tips
Run the dishwasher empty on the hottest cycle with white vinegar placed in a bowl on the bottom rack to dissolve mineral buildup and grease residue that detergent alone cannot remove. This method costs under $3 and should be performed monthly to maintain optimal cleaning performance.
A soft-bristled bottle brush or dedicated dishwasher cleaning brush ($8-15) reaches the spray arm holes and filter basket crevices where food particles accumulate, preventing clogs that reduce water circulation and washing effectiveness. Brands like OXO Good Grips offer models with angled heads designed specifically for this task.
Avoid mixing vinegar with commercial dishwasher cleaners like Finish Dishwasher Cleaner ($4-7) as the chemical combination can damage rubber seals and internal components; use one method per cleaning cycle only. Always consult your dishwasher manual before using acidic solutions, as some manufacturers recommend their branded cleaners exclusively. ---