Learn how to clean Whirlpool dishwasher with these 4 steps to ensure your kitchen is always clean. Get the most out of your dishwasher.

4 Simple Steps on How to Clean Whirlpool Dishwasher

Have you ever opened your dishwasher and smelled a foul odor? Or noticed that your dishes are not as clean and shiny as they used to be? If so, you may need to give your dishwasher a thorough cleaning. Cleaning your dishwasher regularly can help prevent smells, dirt, and bacteria from building up and affecting your dishes and health. It can also improve the performance and efficiency of your dishwasher, saving you time, water, and electricity.

In this article, I will show you how to clean Whirlpool dishwasher. You don’t need fancy tools or products, just natural ingredients like a cup of white vinegar, half a cup of baking soda, or a specially formulated dishwasher cleaner. By following these steps every 30 days, you can keep your dishwasher and your dishes sparkling clean and smelling fresh.

Step 1: Clear the Filter

One of the most common causes of a smelly dishwasher is a dirty filter. The filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, and it traps bits of food and grease. If you don’t clean your dishwasher regularly, it can become clogged and create a bad odor. Here’s how to clear the filter and make your dishwasher smell fresh again:

• First, you need to locate, remove, and clean the filter. It’s usually a round piece that you can twist and pull out. You may need to consult your dishwasher manual if unsure where to find it or how to remove it.
• Next, soak the filter in warm water with detergent or liquid soap. It will help loosen any dirt and grease stuck on the filter. You can use a soft sponge or a toothbrush to scrub the filter and remove debris gently.
• Finally, you must reinstall the filter and check for clogs or obstructions. Make sure you align the filter correctly and secure it in place. You can also check the spray arms and the drain hose for any blockages that may affect the water flow and cause odors.

Tip: You should clean your dishwasher filter at least once a month or more often if you use your dishwasher frequently or heavily. It will prevent bacteria, mold, and mineral buildup that can cause unpleasant smells and affect your dishwasher’s performance.

Step 2: Clean the Inside of the Dishwasher

The next thing you do is take care of the dishwasher’s interior. It is where many things can go wrong if you don’t clean it properly. You don’t want to deal with mold, odors, or stains, so make sure to focus on these areas:

• The dish racks: Wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or a sponge to remove any bits of food or soap scum. Use a toothbrush to reach the corners and cracks. If the racks are dirty, you can pull them out and soak them in warm water and vinegar for a while.
• The dishwasher door gasket: The rubber strip keeps the water from spilling out of the dishwasher. It can also hold on to dirt and mold, so you need to clean it regularly. Use a damp cloth or a sponge to wipe along the gasket and remove any gunk. You can also use a toothpick or a cotton swab to get into the folds and edges. If the gasket is dirty, sanitize it with a mild bleach solution.
• The bottom of the dishwasher: This is where the water flows out. It can also gather grease, bits of food, and mineral deposits. Use a cloth or a sponge to wipe around the drain and remove any mineral deposits buildup. You can also use a wire hanger or a plunger to unclog the drain if it’s blocked.

By cleaning the inside of the dishwasher, you can keep it smelling fresh and looking good. It will also help it work better and faster. Do this at least once a month or more often if you use the dishwasher regularly.

Step 3: Run a Wash Cycle With Vinegar and Baking Soda

Another way to eliminate the smell in your dishwasher is to run a wash cycle with vinegar and baking soda. These natural ingredients can kill bacteria and cut through dirt without harsh chemicals. Here’s how to do it:

• First, you need to fill a bowl with a cup of white vinegar and place it on the bottom rack of the empty dishwasher. The white vinegar will help disinfect and deodorize the dishwasher as it circulates during the water cycle.
• Next, you need to sprinkle a half cup of baking soda on the top rack of the dishwasher. The baking soda will help remove any stains and odors lingering on the dishes or the dishwasher walls.
• Finally, you need to run a normal water cycle with the dry heat option turned off. The heat-dry option can worsen the smell by baking it in the dishwasher. After the cycle, let the dishes air dry or wipe them with a clean cloth.

Tip: You should run a vinegar and baking soda cycle at least once every three months or whenever you notice a foul smell in your dishwasher. It will keep your Whirlpool dishwasher clean and extend its lifespan.

Step 4: Run a Wash Cycle With Dishwasher Cleaner (Optional)

If vinegar and baking soda are not enough to eliminate the smell in your dishwasher or to describe your glassware and dishes, you can use a dishwasher cleaner. A dishwasher cleaner is specially designed to remove hard water deposits, grease, and food residue from your dishwasher. One of the best dishwasher cleaners on the market is Affresh Cleaner. Here’s how to use it:

• First, buy Affresh dishwasher cleaner from your local store or online. It comes in six tablets that you can use once a month or as needed.
• Next, you need to place one tablet in the detergent tray and another at the bottom of the dishwasher if you are cleaning without dishes. You only need one tablet in the detergent tray to clean dishes.
• Finally, you need to run a normal wash cycle with the dishwasher cleaner. The tablet will dissolve and release a powerful cleaning agent to clean and sanitize your dishwasher.

Tip: You should use Affresh dishwasher cleaner regularly to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and working efficiently. It can also help prevent mineral buildup that can damage your dishwasher and affect its performance.

How to Clean Whirlpool Dishwasher: Conclusion

You have learned how to clean your Whirlpool dishwasher in four easy steps. By following these simple steps, you can easily eliminate any dirt, grease, and mold in your dishwasher causing unpleasant odors. Plus, it can also improve the performance and efficiency of your dishwasher, saving you time, water, and electricity.

To prevent your dishwasher from getting dirty or smelly in the first place, you can also follow some essential tips, such as:

• Rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher to remove large food particles or grease.
• Use the right amount of detergent for your water hardness and load size. Too much or too little detergent can leave residue or stains on your dishes.
• Run a rinse cycle after each use to flush out any food or detergent that may have remained in the dishwasher.
• Leave the door open after each cycle to allow air circulation and prevent mold and mildew growth.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you want to learn more about home and appliance cleaning hacks for your kitchen, check out our other guides.

How to Clean Whirlpool Dishwasher FAQs

How Do You Clean the Bottom of a Stainless Steel Dishwasher?

You can clean the bottom of a stainless steel dishwasher by removing the filter and soaking it in warm water with detergent. Then, wipe the bottom with a damp cloth and vinegar to remove any stains or spots.

Is There a Filter in the Bottom of the Dishwasher?

Yes, there is a filter in the bottom of the dishwasher that traps food particles and grease. You should clean it regularly to prevent clogs and odors.

How Do I Clean My Dishwasher With Vinegar Top or Bottom?

You can clean your dishwasher with vinegar by placing a bowl of white vinegar on the bottom rack and sprinkling some baking soda on the top rack. Then, run a normal cycle with the dry heat option turned off.

How Do I Deep Clean My Dishwasher?

You can deep clean your dishwasher using a cleaner like affresh® to remove hard water deposits, grease, and food residue. Place one tablet in the detergent tray and another at the bottom of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle.