Why your dishwasher smells and how to fix it | Classy Wave
Have you ever opened your dishwasher expecting that fresh, clean smell—only to be greeted by a nasty odor instead? You’re not alone! Over time, even the best dishwashers can develop unpleasant smells due to trapped food particles, grease buildup, or standing water. The good news? You don’t need a new dishwasher—just a good cleaning routine and a few easy fixes.
Let’s explore why your dishwasher smells and, more importantly, how to make it smell fresh again.
Common Reasons Your Dishwasher Smells
1. Food Particles Stuck in the Filter
One of the most common culprits behind dishwasher odor is trapped food debris. Your dishwasher’s filter catches bits of food from your dishes. When not cleaned regularly, those bits start to decompose—causing a sour, rotten smell.
Fix: Remove the bottom rack and take out the filter. Wash it with warm, soapy water using a soft brush to remove any residue. Do this once a week if you use your dishwasher daily.
2. Grease and Soap Scum Buildup
Over time, grease, oil, and detergent residue stick to the inside walls and door seals of your dishwasher. This grime becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Fix: Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack. The vinegar breaks down grease and eliminates odors. For deep cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run another short cycle afterward.
3. Clogged Drain or Standing Water
If you notice a musty or sewer-like smell, there might be standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher. This usually means the drain hose or filter is clogged, trapping dirty water.
Fix: Check for standing water. If present, remove it using a towel or sponge. Then, inspect and unclog the drain or call a professional if the issue persists.
4. Mold and Mildew Growth
A warm, damp environment is perfect for mold and mildew. If your dishwasher isn’t drying properly or you leave the door closed between cycles, mold can form inside.
Fix: Leave the door slightly open after each wash to let moisture escape. Wipe down rubber seals with vinegar or a mild bleach solution once a week.
5. Dirty Door Gasket
That rubber seal around your dishwasher door collects grime and food particles. If you haven’t cleaned it in a while, it could be the source of the odor.
Fix: Use an old toothbrush dipped in a mixture of vinegar and water to scrub the gasket. Wipe it dry with a soft cloth afterward.
6. Faulty or Blocked Garbage Disposal Connection
If your dishwasher is connected to your garbage disposal, a clog there could be causing smells to back up into your dishwasher.
Fix: Run your garbage disposal with plenty of water to clear out food residue. Add ice cubes and lemon peels to freshen the disposal and eliminate odors.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher Properly
Step 1: Remove All Racks and Utensil Holders
Take out removable parts and wash them in warm, soapy water. Scrub any stuck-on grime with a soft brush or sponge.
Step 2: Clean the Spray Arms
Spray arms can get clogged with mineral deposits or food bits. Use a toothpick or needle to clear out the holes. Then rinse thoroughly under running water.
Step 3: Run a Vinegar Cycle
Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that breaks down grease and bacteria.
Step 4: Use Baking Soda for Freshness
After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda at the bottom and run a short cycle. This will neutralize odors and leave your dishwasher smelling clean.
Step 5: Clean the Exterior
Don’t forget the outside! Wipe down the control panel and handle using a damp cloth with mild dish soap. This keeps your appliance looking new.
Preventing Future Odors
1. Scrape, Don’t Rinse
Before loading your dishes, scrape off large food particles instead of rinsing completely. This prevents food buildup in the filter while saving water.
2. Clean the Filter Weekly
Make it a habit to clean your dishwasher filter once a week. This small task can prevent big odor problems later.
3. Leave the Door Open
After every cycle, leave the door slightly open for 30–60 minutes to let moisture evaporate and prevent mold.
4. Run Hot Water Before Starting
Before you start your dishwasher, run the kitchen sink faucet until the water is hot. This ensures your first cycle uses hot water, improving cleaning performance.
5. Use a Dishwasher Cleaner Monthly
Dishwasher cleaning tablets or natural solutions like vinegar can keep your appliance fresh and free from buildup. Run a cleaning cycle once a month for best results.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried everything and your dishwasher still smells, it may be time to call a technician. Persistent odors can indicate deeper issues like:
- Clogged drain hoses
- Broken seals or gaskets
- Mold buildup in hidden parts
A professional can inspect and repair these problems before they worsen.
Natural Ways to Keep Your Dishwasher Smelling Fresh
- Citrus Freshness: Place lemon or orange peels in the top rack and run a short cycle.
- Essential Oils: Add a few drops of tea tree or lavender oil on a cotton ball and place it inside between uses.
- Baking Soda Refresh: Sprinkle a bit on the bottom of the dishwasher once a week to absorb odors.
Conclusion
A smelly dishwasher doesn’t mean it’s broken—it just needs some care and attention. Most odors come from leftover food, grease, or moisture buildup. Regular cleaning, proper maintenance, and good ventilation can keep your dishwasher smelling as fresh as your dishes look.
With just a few simple habits, you can turn your dishwasher from stinky to sparkling clean again!
