You've conveniently placed your dishwasher in your kitchen so that you can easily load and unload it. But there's one problem: It always smells bad! No matter how many times you run it, the smell never goes away. Why does this happen, and more importantly, what can you do about it?
In this article, we'll discuss the main reasons why dishwashers smell bad. We'll also give you some tips on how to prevent and eliminate smells in your dishwasher.
1) Food Particles Are Stuck in the Dishwasher
Over time, food particles can become stuck in the dishwasher's filters, drain, and other components. When these particles start to decompose, they can cause a bad smell.
To clean your dishwasher and remove any food particles that may be stuck in it, follow these steps:
- Start by running your dishwasher on the hottest setting with no dishes in it.
- Add a cup of white vinegar to the detergent compartment.
- Let the dishwasher run for a few minutes, then stop it and let the vinegar solution sit for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, turn on the dishwasher again and let it finish the cycle.
- Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and wipe down the inside with a damp cloth.
- Run the dishwasher on the hottest setting again, this time with a cup of baking soda in the detergent compartment.
- Let the dishwasher run its full cycle.
2) A Damaged or Leaking Dishwasher Hose
A common cause of bad smells in dishwashers is a damaged or leaking hose. If there's a hole or crack in the hose, water and sewage can leak out, which can lead to a nasty smell.
To check for leaks, inspect your dishwasher hoses. If you see any cracks or damage, replace the hose.
3) Mildew or Mold
These fungi thrive in damp, dark places, so they're often found in dishwashers. If you see any mold or mildew growing in your dishwasher, clean it immediately with a mixture of water and bleach.
4) A Dirty Garbage Disposal
If your dishwasher is connected to garbage disposal, the disposal can be another source of bad smells. If the disposal is dirty, food particles can build up and cause a foul odor.
To clean your garbage disposal, add a few ice cubes and a handful of salt. Turn on the disposal and let it run for a few minutes. The ice will sharpen the blades and remove any food particles that are stuck in the disposal.
If you're still having trouble with bad smells, contact a dishwasher repair service. They can inspect your dishwasher and make any necessary repairs.
5) You're Not Running the Dishwasher Enough
Although it may seem counterintuitive, not running your dishwasher can actually cause bad smells. If you only run it once a week or less, food particles can build up and start to decompose, leading to an unpleasant odor.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to run your dishwasher at least once a week. If you have a larger family or entertain often, you may need to run it more frequently.
6) The Dishwasher Needs to Be Descaled
Over time, mineral deposits can build up in your dishwasher. These deposits can cause bad smells and make your dishwasher less efficient.
To descale your dishwasher, add a cup of white vinegar to the detergent compartment and run the dishwasher on the hottest setting. Let the cycle finish, then add a cup of baking soda to the detergent compartment and run the dishwasher again.
Other Maintenance Tips for Your Dishwasher
In addition to the tips above, there are a few other things you can do to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
- Wipe down the inside of the dishwasher with a damp cloth after each use. This will remove any food particles or soap scum that may be left behind.
- Clean the dishwasher's filters regularly. Depending on the type of filter your dishwasher has, you may need to clean it every few months or so.
- Run the dishwasher on the hottest setting at least once a week. This will help to remove any built-up grime and prevent bad smells from developing.
If you follow these tips, you can keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean. If you're still having trouble with bad smells, contact a dishwasher repair service. They can inspect your dishwasher and make any necessary repairs. If you need help with plumbing, contact us!