DIY: How to Clean Your Dishwasher

Washing Your Dishwasher?

It sounds like an odd concept needing to clean something that cleans but you would be surprised how much buildup and residue lurks in the corners and bottom of your dishwasher. I was unloading dishes and happened to look at the crease where the door shut and to my horror saw a gross amount of unidentified leftover nasty.

This was instantly added to my routine. It's easy to do and should be done once a month or at minimum once every 3 months. It keeps your drains fresh even with running hot water and keeps the smell pleasant inside your dishwasher.

You know the scent of opening your washing machine after a few days? It's usually fine but sometimes it has a musty smell. Now think of your dishwasher. How many times do you open to the door to let it air out? Almost never was my answer. It's the same idea but instead of wearing clothes your eating off that musty smell.

Yuck, let's get cleaning.

 Items Needed:

• Distilled White Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Lemon Juice (optional) 

Use Vinegar and Baking Soda - Optional add in a fresh squeezed lemon

Two cups of Vinegar - One poured in the bottom and one in the cup on the top rack

Directions:

1. Run your dishwasher with a dirty load and unload when clean
2. Wipe around the edges and bottom of your dishwasher with a towel dipped in vinegar
3. Use toothbrush or cleaning sponge to get the seal around the dishwasher and any tough spots with vinegar
4. Remove bottom rack and check for food (those pesky noodles always get stuck)
5. Pour one cup of Vinegar in the bottom of your dishwasher and add 1/2 cup of Baking Soda to the bottom as well
6. Place the second cup of Vinegar in a glass bowl or measuring cup on the top rack making sure it's in a dishwasher safe container
7. Run dishwasher on hottest setting with sanitize for best results
8. When finished running open a few inches to let dry out
9. (Optional - Add a fresh squeezed lemon to the bottom of the dishwasher with the vinegar to eliminate any musty smell)

To my horror I'm showing publicly the corners of my dishwasher. What is that?

Easy as that! I can't imagine what's in that brown residue but I do know I never want to see it again! I went on a meticulous cleaning spree after this. Up next: Sink drains!

Actually cleaning out your dishwasher doesn't take much time but running it empty does. Make sure to allow enough time for it to finish cleaning!

Stay Squeaky Clean and Crafty!

-Rina