How to Clean Dishwasher
Clean the filter, door gasket, and interior in the right order so the machine smells better and washes more reliably.
Written by
How To Clean Guides Editorial Team
Research, writing, and content updates
Reviewed by
Household Care Review Desk
Safety and method review
Last reviewed
Apr 1, 2026
Updated Apr 5, 2026
Introduction
Dishwashers trap grease, detergent residue, and food particles in places that are easy to ignore. If the filter is dirty or the gasket stays grimy, the machine starts to smell musty and may redeposit debris onto glassware.
Before You Start
- Check the manual if the filter assembly is not obvious; forcing the wrong part can break the housing.
- Clean standing water and food scraps before running a deodorizing cycle.
What You'll Need
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- White vinegar
- Microfiber cloth
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1
Empty the dishwasher and remove the lower filter
Take out the lower rack if needed, twist out the filter, and clear away trapped food and greasy residue first.
Step 2
Wash the filter and inspect the spray arm area
Clean the filter in warm soapy water, then check the sump area and spray arm holes for visible debris.
Step 3
Wipe the gasket, door edges, and detergent cup
Use a damp cloth and mild soap around the seal and edges where a cleaning cycle does not always reach.
Step 4
Run a hot vinegar cycle in an empty machine
Place vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot cycle to reduce odor and loosen residue.
Why This Method Works / How We Tested
- This order starts with the filter because a deodorizing cycle does very little if the machine still contains trapped food residue.
- Door gaskets and detergent cups are included because they are common smell zones even when the tub looks clean.
Method Notes
What the symptom usually points to
The dishwasher smells sour
Likely cause: Food residue is trapped in the filter or gasket area
Clean those physical trap points before you run any deodorizing cycle.
Glasses come out with gritty specks
Likely cause: The filter or spray path still contains particles
Recheck the filter and spray arm holes before changing detergent.
Safety Notes
- Do not mix bleach with vinegar or run them in back-to-back improvised cleaning cycles.
- Avoid metal picks in spray arm holes unless the manufacturer specifically allows it.
When Not to Use This Method
- Do not pour liquid cleaner into the filter housing if the manual warns against it.
- Skip vinegar if the manufacturer says acidic cleaners can harm interior parts.
Tips
- A monthly filter check is often enough to prevent smell problems from returning.
- If dishes are coming out gritty, inspect the filter before blaming detergent.
Common Mistakes
- Running vinegar through a machine that still has food packed in the filter.
- Ignoring the door gasket because the tub itself looks shiny.
- Using too much detergent after cleaning, which starts the film buildup cycle again.
FAQs
How often should a dishwasher filter be cleaned?
Monthly is a practical baseline for most households, more often if you skip pre-rinsing and run frequent loads.
Related Guides
Use a low-fume oven cleaning method that loosens baked-on grease overnight and finishes with a full rinse.
Steam the mess loose, wipe it in one pass, and avoid harsh products that leave a food-zone smell behind.
Clean with the grain, control water spots, and restore shine without scratching the sink surface.
Browse more in Kitchen cleaning guides.
Sources & Disclosure
- KitchenAid Dishwasher Maintenance Tips: Reference for filter cleaning order and machine maintenance points.
AI status: AI may assist with outlining or drafting, but every published guide is reviewed and edited by a human before it goes live.