Maintaining a clean dishwasher is essential for ensuring that your dishes come out spotless and that the appliance itself runs efficiently.
One of the most effective and eco-friendly ways to clean a dishwasher is by using baking soda. This common household ingredient is known for its natural cleaning and deodorizing properties.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning your dishwasher with baking soda step-by-step.
How to Clean a Dishwasher with Baking Soda?
Cleaning your dishwasher with baking soda is a simple and effective way to remove odors and buildup. Start by emptying the dishwasher completely, including any dishes or utensils.
Next, check the filter at the bottom of the machine for any food particles or debris; removing these will help improve performance. Once that’s done, sprinkle a cup of baking soda evenly along the bottom of the dishwasher.
After you’ve added the baking soda, run a short hot water cycle without any dishes inside. This helps dissolve grease and grime while neutralizing odors.
For an extra boost, you can also add a cup of white vinegar to the top rack before starting the cycle. The combination of vinegar and baking soda works wonders in breaking down stubborn stains and leaving your dishwasher fresh and clean!
Why Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Dishwasher?
Baking soda is a versatile and powerful cleaner that can help remove stains, eliminate odors, and break down grease and grime.
Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, baking soda is safe to use and environmentally friendly. It’s also gentle on your dishwasher’s components, ensuring that your appliance remains in good condition.
Materials You Will Need
To clean your dishwasher with baking soda, you will need the following materials:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A soft brush or sponge
- A clean cloth
- Dish soap
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher with Baking Soda
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher
Before you begin, make sure your dishwasher is empty. Remove any dishes, utensils, and racks from the dishwasher to give you full access to the interior.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
Locate the dishwasher filter, which is usually found at the bottom of the appliance. Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water to remove any food particles and debris.
Use a soft brush or sponge with a bit of dish soap to gently scrub away any stubborn residue. Rinse thoroughly and set aside to dry.
Step 3: Wipe Down the Interior
Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water to wipe down the interior walls, door, and gasket of the dishwasher. Pay special attention to any areas with visible stains or buildup. For tougher spots, use a soft brush or sponge with a little baking soda to gently scrub the surfaces.
Step 4: Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Baking soda is excellent at neutralizing odors and will help freshen up your appliance.
Step 5: Run a Hot Water Cycle
Run a hot water cycle with the dishwasher empty. The hot water will help dissolve the baking soda and distribute it throughout the interior, ensuring a thorough cleaning. This step will also help eliminate any lingering odors.
Step 6: Clean the Spray Arms
Inspect the spray arms for any clogs or debris. Use a toothpick or a small brush to remove any particles obstructing the spray holes. This will ensure that water can flow freely and your dishwasher can clean effectively.
Step 7: Deep Clean with Vinegar and Baking Soda
For an even deeper clean, you can use a combination of vinegar and baking soda. Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle.
The vinegar will help break down grease and grime. Once the cycle is complete, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle. This will leave your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
Step 8: Clean the Exterior
Don’t forget to clean the exterior of your dishwasher. Use a damp cloth with a bit of dish soap to wipe down the door, control panel, and handles. For stainless steel surfaces, use a stainless steel cleaner to achieve a streak-free shine.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dishwasher
To keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your dishwasher monthly using the steps outlined above to prevent buildup and odors.
- Rinse Dishes: Rinse off food particles from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This will help prevent clogs and keep the interior clean.
- Check the Filter: Regularly check and clean the dishwasher filter to ensure it is free from debris and functioning properly.
- Run Hot Water: Occasionally run a hot water cycle with vinegar to break down grease and maintain a fresh-smelling dishwasher.
- Use Quality Detergent: Use a high-quality dishwasher detergent to ensure your dishes come out clean and your appliance remains in good condition.
Benefits of Using Baking Soda for Cleaning
Using baking soda for cleaning your dishwasher offers several benefits:
- Non-Toxic: Baking soda is a safe and non-toxic cleaning agent, making it ideal for households with children and pets.
- Environmentally Friendly: Unlike chemical cleaners, baking soda is eco-friendly and does not harm the environment.
- Cost-Effective: Baking soda is inexpensive and readily available, making it a budget-friendly cleaning solution.
- Versatile: In addition to cleaning dishwashers, baking soda can be used for a variety of other household cleaning tasks.
Conclusion
Keeping your dishwasher clean with baking soda is an effective, safe, and environmentally friendly way to ensure your appliance runs efficiently and your dishes come out sparkling clean.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can maintain a fresh and odor-free dishwasher with minimal effort. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the life of your dishwasher and enhance its performance.
