Despite its use, most people do not even know exactly how to clean a dishwasher properly. In fact, behind the tremendous benefits, this tool also faces many tough challenges. It swallows dirt and food scraps have to serve you some clean cutlery.
With such a heavy workload, this tool is easy to damage and is interrupted in function. However, that will not happen if you take good care of it. One way is to clean it at least once a month so that every component in it continues to work well.
Tools to Prepare
Before discussing how to clean a dishwasher, first, you have to know what equipment you need to prepare. Admittedly, the steps we will take later are not as easy as washing dishes by hand. No wonder the equipment to prepare is slightly different. Here are some of them:
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Sponge
- Relevant woodworking tools, for example, a screwdriver or hex wrench
- Small pointed objects, such as toothpicks
- Dishwasher soap
- Cleaning cloth
- An old toothbrush
- All-purpose cleaner or steel brush
The list above is the general items to prepare before cleaning the dishwasher. However, not all machines need the same equipment. You may need equipment that is not on the record.
Instructions of How to Clean a Dishwasher
However, the cleaning process should not be in a careless way. Some people neglect several things that lead to engine failure. To avoid unwanted mistakes, learn some steps on how to clean a dishwasher below:
1. The Initial Step
First, you have to disassemble the machine and remove all removable parts, such as filters, spinning arm/disc, etc. In this stage, you can also check the condition of each piece to make sure everything is in good condition. After that, we can continue to do the cleaning.
2. Washing the Pieces
The next step is to wash the dismantled parts one by one. You can use the soap with a sponge as a helping tool. Make sure everything is perfectly cleaned so that no dirt remains. After that, rinse them well with water.
3. How to Clean Dishwasher Filter
The dishwasher filter is one of the most critical components of a machine to clean. A lot of dirt accumulates and forms stubborn crust. Use a mixture of dish soap water and baking soda to get rid of it.
4. How to Clean Dishwasher Drain Trap
As it is clogged easily, you need to know how to clean a dishwasher drain properly. The trick is to pour the vinegar and baking soda mixture into the machine. After a few minutes, rinse with warm water to remove any residue.
Other Tips on How to Clean a Dishwasher
Apart from the steps for how to clean a dishwasher above, you might come across quite a different situation. Learn the following in case you find it:
1. How to Clean a Dishwasher with Bleach
Before using this method, you need to ensure that your machine can withstand bleaching. The reason is that this material will damage the steel. When sure about it, you can run it into the machine and operate it as usual.
2. How to Clean a Dishwasher By Hand
If you do this manually, you will have to use your hands to clean each part. Nevertheless, one thing to note is that you do not touch ingredients like vinegar and baking soda directly. Try to use rubber gloves to avoid skin problems.
3. How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher
The odors arise due to the build-up of dirt and scale in the machine. If you clean the dishwasher manually by disassembling it, the scent of soap will be quite helpful. Apart from that, you can get rid of the smell by pouring the vinegar solution into the appliance.
4. How to Clean a Clogged Dishwasher
It can be solved by using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Mix the two in a ratio of 1: 1 and mix well. Flush it into the machine. Wait 15 minutes and pour warm water over the same area. The clogged dishwasher will resolve the problem on its own.
5. Using Dishwasher Cleaning Tablets
For some people, manual cleaning is a tiring job. Nevertheless, you do not need to worry because there are materials that are more practical to use, namely dishwasher cleaning tablets. Apart from helping to clean the stubborn scale and dirt, this product can also be a refresher.
It is how to clean a dishwasher instantly without having to disassemble it. Just put it in the appliance, and then operate it. The product will dissolve the dirt, clean the residue, and drain it. The smell problem is also over.
Behind its practicality, it is necessary to know how to clean a dishwasher well. By taking care of it, you will be able to extend the life of use and continue to be able to make the most of it. Caring is better than repairing, right?
