Used on a daily basis, our dishwashers are subjected to a near-constant barrage of food, soap, and grease. Here's how to give the machine it's own thorough cleaning.
Photograph by Michelle Slatalla
Supplies:-White vinegar-Baking soda or borax-Small cleaning brush (i.e. toothbrush)-Toothpick or wooden skewer-Cloth rags-Large bowls-Screwdriver
Step 1: Remove the trays and utensil holder so that you can access the inner workings of the dishwasher.
Step 2: Clean all removable parts by soaking them and scrubbing as needed.
Immerse removable pieces in a bath of soapy hot water.
Give any areas that have extra mildew or hard-water stains a vigorous scrub using baking soda and a toothbrush.
Step 3: Clean the interior.
Rinse your toothbrush and apply vinegar to clean the rubber seal around the edges of your machine.
Using a rag soaked in vinegar, gently clean the front and sides of the door, including the controls area.
Step 4: Replace the parts you removed and run your machine using nothing but vinegar.
Important note! Never mix vinegar with bleach when cleaning your machine—or anything else. Doing so will release toxic chlorine and chloramine vapors.
Step 5: As a final polish, give your machine a baking soda cycle.