Your dishwasher works hard every day, cleaning up after family meals. But without regular maintenance, grease, food particles, and mineral deposits can build up, causing bad smells, cloudy glasses, or even breakdowns. If you’re in Adelaide and want to avoid costly dishwasher repairs, learning how to clean your dishwasher properly is the first step.
Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Matters
Even though a dishwasher cleans dishes, it doesn’t clean itself. Over time, soap scum, limescale, and food debris can clog filters, spray arms, and seals. Regular cleaning helps:
Keep dishes sparkling and odour-free.
Prevent blockages that strain the motor and pump.
Extend the lifespan of your appliance.
Reduce the need for professional dishwasher repairs in Adelaide.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Dishwasher
1. Clean the Filter
Remove the lower rack and twist out the filter.
Rinse under warm water with dish soap and a soft brush.
Clean weekly if you use your dishwasher daily.
2. Scrub the Spray Arms
Remove spray arms (if your model allows).
Rinse under running water and poke out blocked holes with a toothpick.
This ensures strong water flow for a thorough clean.
3. Wipe the Door Seals
Use a damp cloth with vinegar or mild detergent.
Pay attention to rubber seals where food and grime collect.
Prevents mould growth and keeps the door sealing properly.
4. Clean the Interior
- Run a hot cycle with Power Of 4 Descaler to dissolve grease and deodorise.
5. Maintain the Exterior
Wipe down the door with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
For stainless steel, use a streak-free cleaner.
How Often Should You Clean a Dishwasher?
Weekly: Rinse the filter and wipe seals. Run at least one hot wash cycle a week.
3 Monthly: Run a 60 degree intensive Pots and Pans cycle with Power Of 4 Descaler.
Every 6 months: Deep-clean spray arms and check for limescale build-up.
When to Call Professional Dishwasher Repairs in Adelaide
If your dishwasher still:
Leaves dishes dirty after cleaning,
Smells even after a deep clean,
Leaks water or shows error codes,
…it may need professional servicing. We have a team of Adelaide technicians that can inspect pumps, motors, sensors, and electrical systems to get your dishwasher working like new again.
FAQs
How do I get rid of bad smells in my dishwasher?
Run a hot cycle with Power Of 4 Descaler.
Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
Only if your dishwasher is not stainless steel and the manual allows it. Vinegar is safer for most models.
How often should I clean the filter?
At least once a week for daily users, or fortnightly for lighter use.
Do Adelaide technicians offer dishwasher maintenance services?
Yes—our local repair specialists provide cleaning, servicing, and dishwasher repairs across Adelaide suburbs.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning is the key to a fresh, efficient, and long-lasting dishwasher. By following these steps, you’ll prevent common issues like blockages, bad smells, and poor cleaning results.
If your dishwasher still isn’t performing properly, don’t wait for a complete breakdown. Contact our trusted dishwasher repair service in Adelaide team for expert advice and repairs. They’ll ensure your appliance runs smoothly for years to come.