It’s an ironic reality: the machine responsible for cleaning your dishes can become one of the dirtiest spots in your kitchen. Over time, bits of food, grease, and soap scum accumulate, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and that dreaded musty, sour odor.

At Rosa Cleaning Services, we don’t just wipe the surface—we perform the deep-cleaning protocols that restore your machine to peak efficiency. Here is how you can achieve a professional-level dishwasher clean at home.

Quick Answer: Best Way to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher

The most effective way to eliminate odors is to remove and scrub the filter by hand, clear the drain, and then run a “heavy” cycle with two cups of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack. Follow this by a second cycle with a cup of baking soda sprinkled on the floor of the machine to neutralize lingering scents.

Why Dishwashers Start to Smell

Even the most expensive dishwashers are prone to odors for three main reasons:

Decomposing Food: Particles caught in the filter continue to rot between cycles.
Grease Accumulation: Fats from dishes settle on the internal walls and spray arms.
Moisture Trap: If the door is kept closed after a cycle, the lack of airflow leads to mildew growth on the rubber door gasket.

Key Areas to Target

The Filter: This is the #1 culprit. It traps everything that doesn’t go down the drain.
Spray Arms: Small food bits can plug the tiny holes, reducing water flow.
Door Gasket: The rubber seal hides grime and moisture that you won’t see at a glance.
Drain Area: Debris often collects right around the drain grate.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Empty and Clean the Filter: Locate the filter (usually at the bottom of the machine). Twist to remove it, and scrub it under hot, soapy water with an old toothbrush.
Clear the Spray Arms: If the holes look blocked, use a toothpick to push out any debris.
Wipe the Gasket: Using a damp cloth with vinegar, scrub the rubber seal inside the door. This area is often missed but holds the most bacteria.
Run the Vinegar Cycle: Place a dishwasher-safe bowl with 2 cups of white vinegar on the top rack. Run the hottest cycle available.
Follow with Baking Soda: Once the cycle finishes, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short, hot rinse cycle.
Air Dry: Leave the door cracked open for a few hours after cleaning to ensure the interior is bone-dry.

Troubleshooting Persistent Odors

If your dishwasher still smells “sour” after a deep clean, check:

The Garbage Disposal: If your dishwasher drains into your disposal, a dirty disposal will cause the dishwasher to smell.
The Drain Hose: If the hose is kinked or not installed with a high loop, dirty water may be flowing back into the dishwasher.

Vinegar vs. Commercial Cleaners

Vinegar is excellent for breaking down mineral deposits and neutralizing odors, but some dishwasher manufacturers advise against frequent use because the acid can degrade rubber seals over time. Commercial cleaners are formulated to be safe for seals while attacking heavy grease and lime buildup. Use vinegar monthly, and consider a specialized dishwasher cleaner every 3–6 months.

How Often?

Monthly: Clean the filter and run a vinegar cycle.
Weekly: Wipe the door gasket and clear large food scraps from the drain.

FAQ

Why does my dishwasher smell bad?

It is almost always caused by a dirty filter, trapped food debris, or mildew growing on the damp rubber door seal.

How do I clean the filter in my dishwasher?

Twist the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub to unlock it, rinse it under hot water, and use a soft brush to remove stuck-on particles.

Can vinegar clean a dishwasher?

Yes, it is highly effective at dissolving mineral deposits and removing odors. Just be sure to rinse it well and don’t overdo it to protect the rubber seals.

How often should a dishwasher be cleaned?

Perform a deep clean (filter and vinegar cycle) once a month.

Why does my dishwasher still smell after cleaning?

The smell may be originating from the kitchen sink drain (disposal) or a clogged drain hose, rather than the machine itself.

Need a kitchen that shines from the inside out? At Rosa Cleaning Services, we provide professional deep-cleaning services that handle the jobs you don’t have time for.

Click here to get a free cleaning estimate from Rosa Cleaning Services today!