How to Clean a Dishwasher

Cleaning a dishwasher starts with hands-on removal of food and mineral buildup, then follows with targeted rinsing and a hot empty cycle to flush oils and odors. The essential steps are: remove and rinse the filter, clear the drain and spray arms, wipe seals and interior surfaces, and run a deep-clean cycle with an appropriate cleaner.

Before you start: safety and preparation

Tools and supplies

Gather gloves, a soft brush or old toothbrush, a non-abrasive sponge, a sink basin or towel, and a small tool (toothpick or soft wire) for clearing spray-arm holes. Have a dishwasher-safe cleaning agent ready; options include a commercial dishwasher cleaner or a mild household option described below. If you are unsure which product your appliance manufacturer recommends, consult the manual before using acidic products.

When to clean

Regular maintenance prevents clogs and odor. Plan to clean the filter and inspect the drain every 1 to 3 months, and run a deeper interior cleaning every 3 months or sooner if you notice odors, poor draining, or reduced cleaning performance.

Step-by-step cleaning process

Turn off and prepare.
Turn the dishwasher off and ensure dishes are removed. Open the door fully and pull out the bottom rack to access the filter, spray arms, and drain area.
Remove and clean the filter.
Locate the filter assembly at the tub floor and follow your model's instructions to lift it out. Rinse the filter under warm running water with a soft brush to remove trapped particles; avoid metal scouring pads that could damage mesh.
Clear the drain and sump area.
Inspect the drain opening for food debris, broken glass, or packaging. Remove visible material by hand or with a damp cloth; if objects are lodged deeper, consult the troubleshooting guide or a professional. For persistent slow draining, see our guide on Unclogging common dishwasher drains.
Clean spray arms.
Remove spray arms if your model allows and rinse them under water. Use a toothpick or soft wire to clear blocked holes, then spin them to check they turn freely. Reinstall securely so they do not come loose during a cycle.
Wipe the interior and door gasket.
Use a sponge and mild detergent to wipe the interior walls, door, and the rubber gasket around the door. Pull back the gasket gently to remove trapped debris and rinse the area; a clean gasket helps maintain a watertight seal and prevents mildew.
Run a deep-clean cycle.
Choose a hot cycle and run the dishwasher empty with a recommended cleaner: a commercial dishwasher cleaner or a cup of baking soda on the bottom for deodorizing. If you use white vinegar, check the manufacturer guidance first since acidic agents are not advised for all models. For guidance on cleaning agents and additives, see our piece on choosing detergents and rinse aids.
Final inspection and reassembly.
After the cycle, inspect spray arms and interior for leftover residue, reinstall the filter, and return racks. Run one short rinse or quick cycle with dishes to confirm normal operation.

Filter cleaning and replacement

Dishwashers use either a removable mesh filter or a self-cleaning system; the cleaning steps above apply to removable filters. Regular removal, rinsing, and visual inspection prolong filter life and protect the pump from debris. If the filter shows tears, large deformities, or persistent clogging after cleaning, replacement may be necessary.

For detailed instructions on matching and replacing a filter for your model, follow our guide on Replacing a dishwasher filter.

Deodorizing and preventing odors

Odors usually come from trapped food, greasy film, or standing water. Keep the dishwasher smelling neutral by removing food scraps before loading, emptying the filter frequently, and leaving the door slightly ajar between cycles so moisture can dissipate.

Monthly: run a hot empty cycle with a manufacturer-approved cleaner or baking soda on the tub floor.
Weekly: check and clear the filter and wipe the door gasket and edges.
After heavy use: inspect for food melt or stuck eggshells and clean immediately.

Door gasket maintenance

The rubber gasket forms the seal that prevents leaks and keeps out moisture, mold, and odors. Wipe the gasket with warm water and mild soap on a soft cloth, taking care to clean the folds where debris accumulates.

When to replace the gasket

Replace the gasket if it is cracked, torn, permanently compressed, or no longer seals properly. A poor seal can cause leaks and allow odor-causing moisture to remain trapped; consult the appliance manual for the correct replacement part and procedure.

Common mistakes and a quick checklist

Several predictable errors undermine cleaning efforts. Avoid using harsh abrasives, neglecting the filter, and running short, cool cycles as the only maintenance step. Here is a concise checklist to follow each cleaning session.

Turn off power and remove dishes before cleaning.
Remove and rinse the filter; inspect for damage.
Clear the drain and wipe the interior surfaces and gasket.
Clean spray-arm holes and ensure arms spin freely.
Run an empty hot cycle with an approved cleaner.
Inspect seals and reassemble; test with a short rinse cycle.

Common mistakes to avoid:

Using bleach or undiluted vinegar on models where the manufacturer warns against it.
Forgetting to check the filter and drain before running the dishwasher, which can push debris into the pump.
Neglecting the gasket and edges, where mold and food residues hide.

Troubleshooting examples

Example: if you run a cleaning cycle but smell persists, check the filter and the bottom fold of the door gasket for trapped debris. If drips appear after a cycle, inspect the gasket and spray-arm clips for damage or improper seating.

If the dishwasher still drains poorly after clearing visible debris, consult the guide on Unclogging common dishwasher drains for step-by-step drain-focused options or call a qualified technician.

Closing: maintain a regular routine

Regular, simple maintenance prevents most problems: clean the filter, clear the drain, wipe the gasket, and run a deep-clean cycle periodically. When in doubt about a product or a repair, consult the appliance manual or the manufacturer's support to avoid damaging components.

Following this sequence preserves cleaning performance, reduces odors, and helps extend the life of the appliance.