04 Sept 2025
We ask a lot of our dishwashers. They are the workhorse of the kitchen, tackling burnt-up casseroles, greasy plates and tea-stained mugs without complaint. Day in, day out. They’ve got our backs in the world of washing up.
But dishwashers have needs too!
Every once in a while (about once a month, actually) they need a little TLC back. Because if your dishwasher’s starting to smell a bit… mysterious, or you’re noticing residue around the seals… or the glasses aren’t quite gleaming anymore… it’s probably time for a clean.
the basic clean.
Here’s the quickest, best way back to a clean, fresh dishwasher using ingredients you’ve probably already got in your kitchen cupboards (hello vinegar and baking soda).
No bleach. No stress. No smells.
1. clear the filter.
You know the bit… it’s essentially a grot trap where food debris goes to die (looking at you rogue peas) and it needs cleaning out at least once a month.
Lift the bottom rack, take out the filter (if your machine allows), and wash out any debris in the sink. You can use an old clean toothbrush and a little washing up liquid with warm water to gently remove any stubborn bits from the many nooks and crannies. The soapy water will do wonders to remove any build up of grease also!
2. white vinegar wizardry.
Pour 2 cups of clear white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring jug and then place it carefully onto the lower rack, standing upright.
There’s no need to add a smol dishwasher tablet for this - we’re just focused on cleaning out the dishwasher’s insides, not our dirty dishes.
3. bicarbonate of soda brilliance.
Sprinkle 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda across the bottom of the dishwasher (it will help tackle lingering smells and cloudy residue) and then run a normal hot wash cycle.
Hello fresh-scented dishwasher. Goodbye grime.
And if your dishwasher needs more?
the deep clean.
Give your dishwasher a real spa day with some deep cleaning energy vibes.
1. wipe down.
After running your basic clean (vinegar, bicarb and filter check), grab your smol multi purpose spray and a soft cloth.
Wipe down the inside of the door, walls, and especially around the detergent tray and hinges, where grime loves to hide.
2. rinse out the spray arms.
Food bits and mineral deposits can clog the little holes in the rotating arms that spray your dishes.
Twist and remove the arms (check your manual if unsure), then run water through them over the sink. You can also use a toothpick or cocktail stick if anything’s stuck inside. Replace them once the water is flowing freely.
3. clean those rubber seals.
Check around the door, especially the rubber seal. That greyish gunk? it’s usually a mix of food residue, mould, and leftover detergent.
Make sure to wipe it all away with smol multi purpose on a cloth or an old toothbrush.
4. check the racks.
Finally, pull out your top and bottom racks and inspect the rails where they slide in and out. Crumbs, grease and gloop can gather in the tracks so use a toothbrush or cloth to clean all around those runner areas, even the wheels.
how often to clean a dishwasher?
Here’s a handy timing guide on keeping your dishwasher spick and span.
- After every load do a quick check for leftover food bits.
- Once a month (at least) do the basic clean above. More often if you use your machine daily.
- At least every 6 months treat your appliance to a deep clean day.
Remember, clean dishes start with a clean machine and a top quality, award winning dishwasher tablet like smol’s! Happy cleaning!