Banish dishwasher mould and bad smells with thorough method using cheap everyday items

Cleaning your dishwasher doesn't have to break the bank or take up too much time, but it can make a huge difference when preventing bad odours and dull-looking cutlery.

By Melanie Kaidan, Lifestyle Reporter

dishwasher cleaning

Banish dishwasher mould and bad smells with thorough method using cheap every day items (Image: Getty)

New research by Tap Warehouse reveals that many Brits are seeking guidance on how to effectively clean their kitchen appliances, particularly dishwashers.

With an average of 7,200 monthly searches, it’s clear that keeping dishes smelling fresh and looking spotless is a common concern.

Clogged drains can hinder performance, leading to unclean dishes and unpleasant odours that spread through the kitchen.

Luckily, there are affordable and straightforward methods to ensure your dishwasher runs smoothly and efficiently.

Nancy Emery, a cleaning expert at Tap Warehouse, shared her thorough method, which surprisingly doesn’t require any expensive cleaning products but everyday kitchen items.

Man fixing dishwasher in the kitchen.

Clogged drains can hinder a dishwasher's performance (Image: Getty)

She said: “To give your dishwasher the full cleaning treatment, begin by emptying any dishes and utensils to give you easy access to the interior.

“Once this is done, pull out the bottom rack of your dishwasher and remove the filter.

“Proceed to empty the filter of any leftover food and debris, before soaking it in warm, soapy water.

“Next, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any dirt before placing the rack back inside.”

Unloading dishwasher with tableware

Cleaning your dishwasher doesn’t have to break the bank or take up too much time (Image: Getty)

For a deeper clean, Nancy suggests using 250ml of white vinegar in an upright, dishwasher-safe container placed on the lower rack.

She added: “Once you’ve run a normal cycle with the container inside and the heat dry option turned off, you should see a noticeably cleaner dishwasher.

“Finally, all that’s left to do is clean mould and mildew off the gasket seals. Make a solution of warm water and soap and use a sponge to wipe away any build up to stop your dishwasher having a foul smell.”

Finally, dry the interior with a clean towel to ensure your dishwasher stays fresh and odour-free.

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