Dealing with a smelly dishwasher can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. Not only does it make your kitchen smell bad, but it can also affect the cleanliness of your dishes. Luckily, there are several simple solutions to get rid of that unpleasant odor and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.How to Get Rid of a Smelly Dishwasher | The Spruce
One of the most common causes of a smelly dishwasher is a buildup of food particles and debris. Over time, these particles can start to decompose and create an unpleasant smell. To get rid of this smell, start by giving your dishwasher a deep clean. Remove the bottom rack and check the drain for any large pieces of food or debris. Use a paper towel or cloth to wipe away any residue. Next, place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle. The vinegar will help break down any remaining food particles and eliminate the odor.How to Get Rid of a Smell in Your Dishwasher | Reader's Digest
If the vinegar method doesn't completely eliminate the smell, you may need to take a closer look at the dishwasher's filter. Over time, the filter can become clogged with food particles and debris, leading to a foul odor. To clean the filter, remove it from the dishwasher and rinse it under hot water. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any stubborn buildup. Additionally, it's important to regularly clean the inside of your dishwasher. Remove the racks and use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior walls and door. This will help prevent any lingering smells and keep your dishwasher running efficiently.How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher | Bob Vila
Another possible cause of a smelly dishwasher is hard water. If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can build up in your dishwasher and contribute to an unpleasant odor. To combat this, you can run a cycle with a product specifically designed to remove hard water buildup, such as Finish Dishwasher Cleaner. You can also try adding a tablespoon of baking soda to the bottom of your dishwasher before running a cycle. This will help neutralize any odors caused by hard water deposits.Why Does My Dishwasher Smell? | Reviewed
If your dishwasher has a musty smell, it could be due to excess moisture inside the appliance. This can be caused by a few different factors, such as a faulty door seal or a clogged drain. To fix this issue, check the door seal for any cracks or gaps and replace if necessary. You can also use a pipe cleaner to clear out any debris in the drain. You may also want to consider running your dishwasher with a rinse aid, which helps reduce excess moisture and prevent a musty smell from developing.How to Get Rid of a Musty Smell in Your Dishwasher | CNET
If your dishwasher is emitting a foul smell, it could be due to a dirty spray arm. The spray arm is responsible for distributing water and detergent throughout the dishwasher, and if it's clogged or dirty, it can contribute to a smelly dishwasher. To clean the spray arm, remove it from the dishwasher and soak it in a mixture of hot water and white vinegar for 10-15 minutes. Then, use a toothbrush or small brush to scrub away any buildup before rinsing it off and replacing it in the dishwasher.How to Eliminate Dishwasher Odor | Home Guides | SF Gate
In some cases, the source of a smelly dishwasher may be the garbage disposal. If your dishwasher is connected to the garbage disposal, food particles can become trapped and create a bad smell. To fix this, run your garbage disposal and make sure it's clear of any debris. You can also try pouring a cup of baking soda down the disposal followed by a cup of white vinegar to help break down any buildup.Why Does My Dishwasher Smell? | Family Handyman
If none of these solutions seem to be working, it may be time to call in a professional. A plumber or appliance repair technician can inspect your dishwasher and determine the source of the smell. They may also be able to deep clean the dishwasher or replace any damaged parts that could be contributing to the odor.How to Get Rid of a Smelly Dishwasher | Angie's List
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your dishwasher smelling fresh. Make sure to scrape off any excess food from your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, and run a hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every few months to keep your appliance free of buildup and odors.How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher | Merry Maids
A smelly dishwasher can be a nuisance, but with a little bit of maintenance and cleaning, you can eliminate that unpleasant odor and keep your dishwasher running smoothly. By regularly cleaning your dishwasher and addressing any potential issues, you can ensure that your dishes come out clean and your kitchen smells fresh. Say goodbye to dishwasher odors and hello to a clean and fresh-smelling appliance.How to Get Rid of a Smell in Your Dishwasher | HomeServe