Home remedies to banish dishwasher odours and grime
Dishwashers are indispensable appliances in many kitchens, but what should you do when unpleasant odours and unclean dishes appear? Discover home methods for cleaning your dishwasher.
Dishwashers have become an integral part of modern kitchen equipment. The time and water savings they offer make them extremely useful. However, like any appliance, they also require proper maintenance. Regular cleaning of the dishwasher is not just about aesthetics; it also helps avoid unpleasant odours, which can occur when food residues and grease accumulate in the crevices of the appliance.
How to clean the dishwasher using home methods?
One of the most commonly recommended ways to clean a dishwasher is to use vinegar. Vinegar effectively removes limescale deposits and dirt, acting as a natural disinfectant. Simply place a cup of vinegar on the top rack of an empty dishwasher and run a wash cycle. This method will also help eliminate unpleasant odours.
Another method is to use lemon to clean the interior of the dishwasher. How to clean the dishwasher with lemon? Lemon, thanks to its high citric acid content, is an effective and natural cleaning agent that is ideal for refreshing the dishwasher. To remove limescale deposits and unpleasant odours, simply cut a lemon in half and place the halves on the top rack of the dishwasher. Then, run a short wash programme with hot water, but without any dishes. Citric acid will not only remove limescale deposits but also leave the dishwasher interior with a fresh scent.
Instead of lemon, you can also use ready-made citric acid—simply pour it into the detergent compartment and then run the empty dishwasher on a standard cycle.
Baking soda is also an effective agent for cleaning the dishwasher. Thanks to its disinfecting properties and ability to neutralise odours, it refreshes the interior well. To clean the dishwasher, first remove all dishes. Then sprinkle half a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the empty appliance and run a short hot wash cycle. This simple method will help remove grease, dirt, and neutralise any unpleasant odours that may have accumulated inside.
How often to clean the dishwasher?
Regular cleaning of the dishwasher is a key element of its proper functioning and longevity. Experts recommend performing a complete cleaning of the appliance at least once a month. This is not only to remove accumulated food residues and deposits that can affect cleaning quality but also to prevent unpleasant odours from forming. Thanks to regular maintenance, the dishwasher will last long and function effectively without putting a strain on the household budget with unnecessary repairs.
What else to remember? To keep the dishwasher in perfect condition, it's also important to regularly check the condition of filters and hoses. If necessary, remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, removing any food residues and deposits. It's also a good idea to check the drain and intake hoses for any potential damages or blockages.
