Clean the Drain Filter

A clogged drain is often the most common cause of a bad-smelling dishwasher. You can find them at the bottom-most part of your dishwasher, along with a drain filter on top of it.

This is to prevent larger food particles from entering your drainage system, possibly causing a leak somewhere in your home. The only problem here is that it will accumulate on the filter. This can cause standing water, which will contain all the particles of previously washed dishes, causing a bad smell.

To remove the clog, you need to remove the filter and clean it with hot water and soap. You can use a brush to reach all the crevices. Use bleach or vinegar to scrub the edges when cleaning a dishwasher.

Make sure that the drain is clean of all food chunks before putting it back in. If you find any chunks, you can wipe them away with a sponge. Make sure to dispose of them properly afterwards. 

Check the Spray Arm

The spray arm of your dishwasher is what’s responsible for spraying your dishes with water, both soapy and rinsing water. Any damage or food particles caked on the spray arm can compromise the dishwasher’s ability to clean your dishes.

To fix this problem, you first need to remove it from its place. Put it under running water to remove all the food particles on it. You can also use a toothpick to pick off any of the remaining particles on the arm.

If you notice that there’s visible damage on your dishes, though, it’s a sign that your spray arm is beyond repair. Heavy damage on the arm can cause it to exert more pressure when it sprays water to your dishes. In this case, you’ll need a professional dishwasher technician appliance repair to service your broken spray arm.

Run a Cycle with Vinegar and Baking Soda

Sometimes, warm water with soap isn’t enough to remove all the stains and smells. Baking soda and vinegar are natural household cleaners that work to counter smell. Make a mixture of equal parts of each ingredient in a bowl and run it through your dishwasher.

This should get rid of any remaining smell in your dishwasher. Use this as a final step in cleaning your dishwasher to disinfect it thoroughly.

Use These Tips if Your Dishwasher Smells Bad Today

Ignoring your dishwasher can lead it to smell bad, which is a sign of microscopic growth in your dishwasher. If your dishwasher smells bad, it’s time for you to take care of it. Learn how to clean dishwasher units with the guide above today!

We hope these cleaning tips can help you if your dishwasher smells bad. Are you having a problem with your other appliances? Check us out today and see what other tips you’re looking for about your appliance.