When was the last time you cleaned your dishwasher? With everything going on in your daily life, it’s easy to overlook this hard-working kitchen appliance. Dishwashers get little attention despite all the work they do. Find out why making dishwasher maintenance a New Year’s resolution is a smart move.
The Importance of Dishwasher Maintenance
Dishwashers are the workhorses of the kitchen. They tackle all kinds of residue from food and grease to dirt. Regular maintenance keeps them running efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns. Ignoring this important task leads to spots on dishes, film, and strange smells. In addition, bacteria, limescale, and soap scum buildup not only compromise hygiene but also force the appliance to work harder, shortening its lifespan.
By keeping your dishwasher in top shape, you ensure dishes come out cleaner, reducing the need for rewashing. Cleaning the dishwasher’s components, including the spray arms, filters, and nozzles, prevents debris from building up. A well-maintained dishwasher can serve your household for over a decade.
Clean Your Dishwasher Regularly
Cleaning your dishwasher only requires a few steps and ensures that your dishes and glassware come out sparkling clean and streak-free. These user-friendly maintenance steps, taking only 30-45 minutes 1-2 times per year, are a small investment for improved function and prolonged lifespan. For natural cleaning power without chemicals, clean your dishwasher using a combination of vinegar and baking soda. Follow these easy steps to get great results:
- Empty the dishwasher.
- Wipe down the inside of your dishwasher. Use a paste of baking soda and water applied with an old toothbrush to clean gunk around the seals and spinning arms.
- Locate the filter and remove it. You may need to remove the spinning arm to access it.
- Run some hot, soapy water in the sink. Soak the filter for 30 minutes, and then scrub with a nylon brush to clean.
- Replace the filter, spinning arm, and lower rack assembly.
- Pour 2 cups of vinegar into a large bowl and place it on the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle with an air-dry option. Don’t use the heated drying cycle.
Besides cleaning your dishwasher, schedule annual inspections with a professional to ensure it runs smoothly. Set a reminder every December to ensure your dishwasher is in top shape before the holidays and for the rest of the year.
If your dishes don’t seem to be any cleaner despite your best efforts, contact The Bargain Buster Appliance Sales and Service in Phoenix, AZ to schedule dishwasher repair services.
