If you’ve ever opened your dishwasher expecting clean, fresh plates but instead got hit with a wave of bad odor, you’re not alone. A smelly dishwasher is one of the most common complaints homeowners have, and the good news is that it’s almost always fixable with a little cleaning and maintenance.
Let’s walk through why your dishwasher smells and how you can make it fresh again without fancy products or hours of scrubbing.
Why Your Dishwasher Smells Bad
Dishwashers deal with food residue, grease, and warm, moist conditions – the perfect recipe for bacteria and mold if not cleaned regularly. Here are the main culprits:
- Food particles stuck in the filter – Small food bits can get trapped in the filter and rot over time.
- Grease buildup inside the tub – Grease from dishes can cling to the walls and seals.
- Clogged drain or standing water – This can trap odors and bacteria.
- Mold and mildew – Usually found around the rubber door seal if it’s never wiped dry.
- Hard water deposits – Minerals can trap odors and reduce cleaning performance.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean and Deodorize Your Dishwasher
1. Empty and check the filter
Remove the bottom rack and take out the filter. Rinse it under hot water and scrub gently with a soft brush to remove any food particles or grease.
2. Clean the spray arms
Food particles can block the holes in your spray arms. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear them out.
3. Wipe the door seal
Dip a cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe the rubber gasket around the door. This is a common hiding place for mold and mildew.
4. Run a vinegar wash
Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle. Vinegar cuts grease, removes odors, and dissolves mineral deposits.
5. Follow with baking soda
Sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle. Baking soda naturally deodorizes and brightens the interior.
6. Keep it dry between washes
After using your dishwasher, leave the door slightly open so moisture can escape. This helps prevent future odors.
Extra Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Fresh
- Scrape big food chunks off dishes before loading (no need to fully pre-rinse).
- Run a hot water tap in your sink for a few seconds before starting the dishwasher to boost cleaning performance.
- Clean the filter monthly if you use the dishwasher daily.
- If you live in a hard water area, use a dishwasher cleaner or descaler every couple of months.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all these steps and your dishwasher still smells bad, it could be a deeper plumbing or drainage issue. In that case, calling a professional appliance repair service is the safest bet.