What should you do when the dishwasher smells? Let's explain what causes that smell. And we give you the best way to get rid of that nasty odor. Then you can use the dishwasher again quickly, without the stink.
How do I end up with a dishwasher that smells?
Standing water
If the dishwasher is not used regularly, or if the door stays closed for a long time, standing water can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Musty odors build up, and you get a stinking waft when you open the dishwasher.
Build-up of food leftovers
Food leftovers can collect in various corners and crevices of the dishwasher, such as the drain filter, the drain hose, and the spray arms. Over time, those leftover bits rot and give off a dirty smell.
Soap and grease residue
Soap and grease residue can also cling inside your dishwasher, especially if you do not run a hot program regularly. Besides starting to smell, these residues can also make your dishwasher less efficient.
Incorrect drain hose connection
If the drain hose is not connected properly, or if there is a kink in the hose, dirty water from the sink can run back into the dishwasher. That causes a sewer smell in your dishwasher.
Clean your dishwasher
Clean the filters
One of the most common causes of a dishwasher that smells is a dirty or clogged filter. Take the filter out of the dishwasher, usually found at the bottom of the machine. Rinse it thoroughly under running water and use a soft brush to remove food leftovers and other dirt.
Check and clean the spray arms
Sometimes the spray arms can get clogged with food leftovers, which can lead to inefficient cleaning and bad smells. Remove the spray arms and rinse them well to make sure all the holes are open.
How do I remove the stink from my dishwasher?
Remove food leftovers and grease build-up that can collect in the filters, spray arms, and around the edges of the door.
Also always choose a good-quality dishwasher detergent. Cheaper or less effective products can leave residue that leads to bad smells.
Another useful tip is to run a hot cycle monthly. Run the dishwasher empty at the highest temperature with a dishwasher cleaner. This removes bacteria, mold, grease, and limescale, all of which contribute to a fresher smell.
It is also important not to overload the dishwasher. A too-full dishwasher can mean food leftovers are not rinsed away properly and start to rot, which causes unpleasant odors.
And after every cycle, leave the dishwasher door open. This helps moisture in the machine evaporate and helps prevent mold and nasty smells.
A deep clean is what really gets a smelly dishwasher fresh again
Follow these steps for a thorough clean.
Step 1: Clean the filters
First take the filters out of your dishwasher, usually found at the bottom. Rinse them under warm water and use a soft brush to remove food leftovers.
Step 2: Clean the spray arms
Remove the spray arms and rinse them under the tap. Use a toothpick for the holes if they are clogged with food leftovers.
Step 3: Cleaning with vinegar
Place a dishwasher-safe bowl with two cups of white vinegar on the top rack of your empty dishwasher. Start a hot-water program to clean the inside thoroughly and neutralize odors.
Step 4: Baking soda treatment
After the vinegar treatment, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Leave it overnight to absorb smells and rinse it away the next day with a short program.
Step 5: Clean the door seals
The rubber around the dishwasher door can hold onto dirt and smells. Wet a cloth with vinegar or a mild cleaner and wipe the seals thoroughly.
Step 6: Monthly maintenance with special tablets
To keep your dishwasher fresh and in good condition, it is important to do a monthly deep clean.
Use the Cosmeau Dishwasher Deep-Clean Tablets by placing a tablet in the cutlery basket and running the dishwasher empty on the hottest program.
These tablets are specially developed to tackle grease and limescale thoroughly and to reach hard-to-reach corners.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dishwasher smell?
Food leftovers may be collecting in the filter or in hidden corners of your dishwasher. That can lead to bacterial growth and a nasty smell.
What can I do if my dishwasher smells?
Start by thoroughly cleaning the filter and use a dishwasher cleaner. Running a hot rinse regularly also helps eliminate odors.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean your dishwasher once a month with a deep-clean tablet.
Hopefully you now have all the information you need to get your dishwasher smelling fresh again. Don't forget that regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and running a hot cycle, keeps those nasty smells away.
