4 steps to clean the dishwasher

A foul-smelling dishwasher does not feel very fresh. Food residues and bacteria can cause the dishes not to become as clean, so it is good to clean the dishwasher from time to time. And the best part is that it is easier than you think.

Step 1: Clean the filter

There is a filter at the bottom of the dishwasher where food residues collect – empty it. It can be good to wear gloves or be extra careful, as sometimes small glass shards may also end up here if something has broken in the dishwasher.

Step 2: Wipe the rubber seal

Use a mixture of water and vinegar and wipe the rubber seal with a cloth. Make sure to get properly into the joints where dirt may have collected. Vinegar is a good trick to use when cleaning a dishwasher that smells bad, as it kills bacteria and thereby neutralises bad odours.

Also wipe the rest of the door's edge that cannot be reached when the machine is closed. You can save the rest of the outside for later while the machine is running.

Step 3: Use a product to clean the dishwasher

Although it is of course possible to use home remedies to clean the inside of the machine, the easiest option, which is also proven effective, is to use a specialised cleaning product. This could be, for example, a powder sprinkled over the bottom of the machine, or a special cleaning tablet. When using such a product, make sure the machine is empty of dishes.

If you do not have any cleaning products at home or want to go completely natural, you can place a bowl of vinegar in the dishwasher and then run a cycle at at least 65 degrees.

Step 4: Wipe the outside of the dishwasher

While the dishwasher cleans itself, simply wipe the door with a cloth and any cleaning product you prefer.

Extra tip: The door should only be completely closed when the machine is on. Always keep it open, at least slightly, so that it can dry properly between uses. This prevents bad smells, as bacteria thrive in humid and warm environments.