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3 signs it’s time to clean your dishwasher

Once these appear, it's time to get cleaning.
Profile picture of Livia Gamble Writer

The dishwasher is regularly filled with hot water and detergent, so you’d be forgiven if you thought that was enough to keep the machine clean. 

It turns out that your dishwasher needs cleaning too. 

Here are common signs that it’s time to clean your dishwasher. 

Signs it’s time to clean your dishwasher

kitchen sponge
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

1. Your dishes are coming out cloudy and dirty

Food left on your dishes, or a white powdery substance is a sign that it’s time to clean your dishwasher. It’s recommended you do this at least once a month. Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to clean your dishwasher properly.

If you notice cloudy spots on your glasses, the simplest solution is to place a bowl of vinegar on the top rack and run a cycle – this acts as a rinse aid to help combat hard water. It’s a good idea to check your manual before doing this, as some manufacturers advise against using vinegar in a dishwasher.  

2. There’s a funny smell coming from your dishwasher

If you have a terrible smell from your dishwasher, the problem could be food particles getting caught in the filter. Check and clean your filter after each use to avoid nasty smells in your kitchen. 

3. Water isn’t draining out of your dishwasher properly

If water is still pooling in the bottom of your dishwasher after running a cycle, or if you see water bubbling out of the sink, you might have a clog. If your dishwasher is having issues draining water and you’ve cleaned the filter, it might be time to call an expert to look at your dishwasher.

signs to clean dishwasher
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

More dishwasher tips

No need to rinse: while it’s not recommended to rinse dishes, it is good practice to scrape off as much food from your plates as you can before putting them in the dishwasher. 

Avoid over-stacking: placing too many dishes in the dishwasher can lead to your dishes not being as clean. It helps to have a little space between items for a proper clean.

Use a laundry bag: to stop small items from falling under the baskets, pop them in a mesh laundry bag. 

You might also like:

How to clean your oven in 5 minutes

11 best eco-friendly cleaning products

How to deep clean your home like a professional

Profile picture of Livia Gamble
Writer Livia Gamble Senior Digital Content Producer

With a Bachelor’s degree in communications and over a decade of industry experience, Livia is a seasoned content producer and editor who has a knack for crafting articles brimming with helpful information you never knew you needed (but you do). She has covered various topics, from home decor and gardening to health and wellness, showcasing her versatility and expertise. Livia's writing has been featured in publications such as the lifestyle section of the Sydney Morning Herald. Additionally, she has worked as a content editor for various parenting and lifestyle brands, including Babyology and Essential Kids. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found crocheting ponchos and attempting to master the perfect homemade pizza dough.

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