How to Deep Clean Your Dishwasher for Sparkling Results
Your dishwasher works hard to keep your dishes clean, but it also deserves a little care and attention. With regular maintenance, you can ensure that your dishwasher runs efficiently and continues to provide sparkling results. Follow this step-by-step guide to deep clean your dishwasher using vinegar and baking soda. Not only will it look brand-new, but it will also improve its performance.
Step 1: Time to gather some supplies.
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:
Warm water
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
Toothpicks
Toothbrush
Microfiber cloths or used rags
Rubber gloves
Step 2: Remove the Filter, Utensil Holders, and Racks.
To access all the nooks and crannies of your dishwasher, start by removing the filter, utensil holders, and racks. Soak them in a mixture of warm water and 1 cup of white distilled vinegar for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make sure it’s Clear of Debris
With a clear line of sight, thoroughly inspect your dishwasher for any lingering debris. Wipe the spray arms, side walls, dishwasher filter, and dispenser. Pay close attention to corners, tiny holes, and slots where water sprays out. Use a toothbrush and/or toothpick to remove any food particles or debris lodged in these hard-to-reach areas.
Step 4: Run a Hot Water Cycle with Vinegar
Prepare to unleash the cleaning power of vinegar! Grab a dishwasher-safe bowl and fill it with the enchanting elixir of white vinegar—1 cup to be precise. Now, place the bowl on the bottom rack of your dishwasher, as if you're offering a sacrifice to the cleaning gods. Close the door, set the dishwasher to a hot water cycle, and let the vinegar work its magic. It will break down stubborn food residue, grease, soap scum, and any other gunk that dares to challenge its might. Just imagine the vinegar swirling through your dishwasher, singing a little cleaning tune and kicking grime to the curb. Ah, the power of vinegar!
Step 5: Baking Soda to the Rescue
After the vinegar cycle has completed its cleansing symphony, it's time to call upon the mighty baking soda. Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda along the bottom of your dishwasher, spreading it like fairy dust. This magical powder will work wonders to remove stains and infuse your dishwasher with a fresh, clean aroma. Close the door once again, and set the dishwasher to run a short cycle. As the baking soda dances and frolics inside, it will transform your dishwasher into a gleaming paradise. Just think of it as a disco party for your dishes!
Step 6: Show Some Love to the Outer Door
Now, it's time to show some love to the outer door of your dishwasher. Grab a cleaner specifically formulated for its surface, like a knight in shining armor protecting its precious castle. If your dishwasher is made of stainless steel, choose a cleaner specially designed for that material. All-purpose cleaners may leave streaks or scratch the steel, and we definitely don't want any battle scars on your dishwasher! However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can create your own DIY cleaner using dish soap, water, and white vinegar. It's like concocting a secret potion to banish smudges and fingerprints! Take a microfiber cloth, dip it into your chosen cleaning potion, and gently wipe the surface in the direction of the grain. Rinse the cloth, give it a little shake, and make a final pass over the surface for a dazzling, fingerprint-free finish. Ta-da! Your dishwasher's outer door is now shining brighter than a knight's armor.
Maintaining Dishwasher Brilliance
Now that you've unleashed the power of vinegar and baking soda, your dishwasher will shine like never before. Not only will it look and smell heavenly, but it will also work more effectively, ensuring spotless dishes with every wash. Remember to deep clean your dishwasher every six months to keep it running smoothly. And hey, if your dishwasher boasts a self-cleaning sanitize cycle, don't forget to let it have its monthly spa treatment—it deserves a little pampering too! If your dishwasher lacks this feature, fear not! You can rely on trusty dishwasher cleaning tablets like Affresh to combat residue and detergent buildup, giving your dishwasher an extra boost of freshness.
So, go forth and conquer the world of dish washing with your gleaming, super-efficient dishwasher. And remember, Easy Living Cleaners is here to tackle all your house cleaning needs, making your life a little easier and a lot cleaner. For more cleaning tips, make sure to look over our Home Cleaning Check list Let's make your home shine brighter than a supernova!
