You use your dishwasher every day to clean your dishes, but do you ever think about cleaning the dishwasher itself? If you don't, your dishwasher can get dirty and start to smell bad. You might even notice your dishes don't come out as clean as before. Cleaning your stainless steel dishwasher is important to keep it working well and looking shiny. This article will help you learn how to clean your dishwasher the right way, step by step, so it lasts longer and works better every time.
How to Clean the Outside of Your Stainless Steel Dishwasher
Cleaning the outside of your stainless steel dishwasher is the first step. This part shows all the time, so it needs to look good. Stainless steel can look shiny and new if you clean it the right way. But it can also get smudges, fingerprints, and water spots very easily. Here is a simple way to keep the outside clean and sparkling.
Use a Soft Cloth and Warm Water
Start by wiping the outside with a soft cloth dipped in warm water. This will remove dirt and dust. Avoid using rough cloths or scrubbing pads because they can scratch the surface of your dishwasher. Always wipe in the same direction as the stainless steel grain. This helps keep the metal looking smooth and shiny.
Add a Little Dish Soap for Stubborn Spots
If there are sticky spots or fingerprints that won't come off with water alone, add a small amount of mild dish soap to the warm water. Dip your cloth in the soapy water and gently clean those spots. Then, use another clean cloth with just water to wipe off the soap. Make sure no soap is left because it can leave streaks or marks.
Dry the Surface Right Away
After cleaning, dry the outside surface with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Stainless steel can get water spots if you leave it wet. Drying it right away helps keep it streak-free and shiny.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Don't use bleach, ammonia, or other strong cleaners on your stainless steel dishwasher. These can damage the finish and cause it to look dull or even get stained. Also, avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the surface.
Use Stainless Steel Cleaner for Extra Shine
If you want to make your dishwasher really shine, you can use a stainless steel cleaner. These products are made especially for cleaning stainless steel surfaces. Apply a small amount on a cloth and rub it on the dishwasher following the grain. Then buff it off with a dry cloth. This will remove fingerprints, water spots, and leave a shiny finish.
Clean the Handle and Control Panel
Don't forget to clean the handle and control panel. These areas get touched a lot, so they collect germs and dirt. Use the same mild soap and water solution or stainless steel cleaner, but be careful not to let water get inside the control panel buttons. Wipe gently and dry quickly.
Tips to Keep the Outside Clean Longer
To keep your stainless steel dishwasher looking good longer, try these tips:
- Wipe fingerprints as soon as you see them.
- Avoid touching the surface with oily or dirty hands.
- Use a protective spray designed for stainless steel once a week.
- Keep kitchen grease and food spray away from the dishwasher.
By cleaning the outside regularly and using the right products, your dishwasher will always look great and add style to your kitchen.
How to Clean the Inside of Your Stainless Steel Dishwasher
Cleaning the inside of your dishwasher is very important to keep your dishes clean and fresh. Over time, food scraps, grease, and soap scum build up inside, causing bad smells and poor cleaning results. Here is a detailed guide to clean the inside of your stainless steel dishwasher.
Remove and Clean the Dishwasher Filter
Most dishwashers have a filter at the bottom that catches food particles. This filter needs to be cleaned regularly. Start by opening the dishwasher and removing the bottom rack. Look for the filter, which is usually a round or rectangular piece.
Take out the filter carefully and rinse it under warm running water. Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away stuck bits. If the filter is very dirty, soak it in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes before scrubbing. Dry the filter well before putting it back in place.
Check and Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms spray water to clean your dishes, but their holes can get clogged with food debris or hard water deposits. Remove the spray arms if possible (check your dishwasher's manual). Use a toothpick or small brush to clean out the holes. Rinse the spray arms well and reattach them.
Clean the Door Seal and Edges
The rubber seal around the dishwasher door can trap food and water. Wipe this seal with a damp cloth and some mild dish soap. Make sure to clean inside the edges and corners where dirt can hide. Use an old toothbrush if needed to get into small spaces.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural cleaner that helps remove grease and odors. Put a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack of the empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle. The vinegar will wash away grease, soap scum, and odors from the inside of the dishwasher.
Use Baking Soda for Extra Freshness
After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot water cycle. Baking soda helps remove stains and freshens the dishwasher smell.
Clean the Drain Area
Check the drain area at the bottom of the dishwasher for any stuck food particles or debris. Remove anything you see to prevent clogging and bad smells.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals Inside
Just like on the outside, avoid harsh chemicals inside your dishwasher. Vinegar and baking soda are safe and effective. If you use a store-bought dishwasher cleaner, make sure it is safe for stainless steel interiors.
Tips for Keeping the Inside Clean Longer
- Scrape large food pieces off dishes before loading.
- Use the right dishwasher detergent and avoid using too much.
- Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda once a month.
- Leave the door slightly open after use to let the dishwasher dry and prevent mold.
By cleaning the inside regularly, your dishwasher will stay fresh, work better, and your dishes will come out spotless every time.
How to Maintain and Prevent Problems with Your Stainless Steel Dishwasher
Cleaning is very important, but maintenance helps keep your dishwasher running smoothly for many years. Regular care prevents problems like bad smells, leaks, and parts breaking down. Here are tips to maintain your stainless steel dishwasher and avoid trouble.
Regularly Check for Leaks and Damage
Look around your dishwasher for water leaks. Check the door seal and the hoses under the sink. If you see water puddles or damp spots, fix them quickly to avoid damage. Also, look for cracks or damage on the dishwasher door and outside surface.
Use Dishwasher Salt if Needed
If you live in an area with hard water, your dishwasher may need dishwasher salt. This salt helps prevent limescale build-up on the heating element and spray arms. Check your dishwasher manual to see if salt is needed and how to add it.
Avoid Overloading Your Dishwasher
Don't put too many dishes inside at once. Overloading blocks water spray and stops dishes from getting clean. Load dishes properly so water can reach every dish. Avoid stacking bowls or plates too closely.
Use the Right Detergent
Always use a detergent made for dishwashers. Avoid using regular dish soap, which can create too many suds and cause leaks or poor cleaning. Check if your dishwasher works better with powder, gel, or pods and choose the best detergent.
Clean the Dishwasher Drain Regularly
The drain can get clogged with food bits and soap residue. Clean it every few weeks by removing the bottom rack and wiping out the drain area. Use a pipe cleaner or old toothbrush if needed.
Run Hot Water Before Starting
Before you start your dishwasher, run the hot water in your kitchen sink until it's hot. This helps the dishwasher start with hot water, cleaning dishes better and preventing buildup inside the machine.
Fix Small Problems Early
If you notice strange noises, dishes not drying, or water not draining, don't ignore these signs. Fix small problems before they get worse. Sometimes cleaning the filter or spray arms helps, but if the problem continues, call a technician.
Keep the Door Open After Use
After running your dishwasher, leave the door slightly open for a while. This helps air out moisture inside, stopping mold and bad smells.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Every year or two, get a professional to check your dishwasher. They can clean parts you can't reach and check for any hidden problems. This helps your dishwasher last longer and work better.
By taking care of your dishwasher with these simple maintenance tips, you will save money on repairs and enjoy clean dishes every day.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning and maintaining your stainless steel dishwasher doesn't have to be hard. By taking a little time to clean both the outside and inside regularly, you keep it working well and looking good. Using natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda is safe and easy. Plus, regular maintenance helps prevent problems before they start. Your dishwasher will last longer, smell fresher, and clean your dishes better. Give your dishwasher some love, and it will keep your kitchen running smoothly every day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to use vinegar in my stainless steel dishwasher?
Yes, using vinegar in your stainless steel dishwasher is safe and very effective. Vinegar helps remove grease, soap scum, and bad smells naturally without harsh chemicals. To clean your dishwasher with vinegar, put a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot cycle with the dishwasher empty. This will help dissolve mineral deposits and clean the inside. Just avoid using vinegar too often because its acidity might harm rubber seals if overused. Once a month is a good schedule for vinegar cleaning.
Can I use regular dish soap to clean my dishwasher?
No, you should not use regular dish soap to clean your dishwasher. Regular dish soap creates a lot of suds that can overflow and cause leaks. Dishwashers need special detergent made for them. For cleaning inside the dishwasher, use natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda instead of regular soap. These help clean grease and dirt safely without making foam that can damage the machine.
Do I need to remove the filter every time I clean my dishwasher?
It is a good idea to remove and clean the dishwasher filter regularly but not every time you run the dishwasher. Cleaning the filter once every 1-2 weeks helps remove trapped food particles and keeps the dishwasher draining properly. If you notice your dishes are not getting clean or the dishwasher smells bad, check the filter more often. Removing the filter is usually easy and helps your dishwasher work better.
Is it okay to use stainless steel cleaner on the outside of my dishwasher?
Yes, it is okay and often recommended to use stainless steel cleaner on the outside of your dishwasher. These cleaners remove fingerprints, water spots, and keep the surface shiny. Make sure to follow the directions on the cleaner and always wipe in the direction of the metal grain. After applying, buff the surface with a dry cloth for the best shine. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
Can I leave the dishwasher door open after use?
Yes, leaving the dishwasher door slightly open after use is a great idea. It lets the inside air out and stops moisture from building up. This prevents mold, mildew, and bad smells from forming inside the dishwasher. Just leave it open for about 30 minutes or until the dishwasher is dry. Make sure it's safe around children and pets.
Do I need professional help to maintain my dishwasher?
While you can do many maintenance tasks yourself, getting professional help once a year or two is a smart choice. Professionals can clean parts you can't reach and fix small problems before they become big. If your dishwasher is making strange noises, leaking, or not cleaning well, a technician can find and fix the issue quickly. Regular professional checks help your dishwasher last longer.
Is it necessary to use dishwasher salt?
Dishwasher salt is necessary only if you live in an area with hard water. Hard water has minerals that can build up inside your dishwasher, causing damage and reducing cleaning power. Dishwasher salt helps soften the water and protect your machine. Check your dishwasher manual to see if you need to add salt and how to do it. If your water is soft, you don't need salt.
Can baking soda really freshen my dishwasher?
Yes, baking soda is very good at freshening your dishwasher. After cleaning with vinegar, sprinkle about a cup of baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle. Baking soda removes stains, neutralizes odors, and helps keep the dishwasher smelling clean and fresh. It is a natural and safe cleaner you can use regularly to keep your dishwasher fresh.