Improving dishwasher performance: Straightforward maintenance tips and tricks to overcome common issues

Why does a dishwasher fail to completely clean dishes, and what causes an unpleasant smell from inside it? There are several factors behind this. It could be due to mechanical issues like a faulty solenoid valve, a dysfunctional detergent dispenser, or problems with the washing pump. Most often, irregular cleaning of the dishwasher is the culprit, leading to an accumulation of food leftovers and deposits in hard-to-reach places. Let's delve deeper into how to counter this issue.

Once the washing cycle is over, it's a good idea to open the dishwasher door to promote air circulation, which speeds up dish drying. Regularly checking the drain and inlet hoses for damage is also beneficial. Additionally, you should clean the dishwasher filter at least once a week and run a sanitizing cleaning cycle monthly.

Combat unpleasant odors from the dishwasher using a lemon. Cut it into thick (seedless) slices, spread them on the dishwasher racks and run a short program with no dishes inside. You'll notice the effects immediately. Your dishwasher will look shiny and smell fresh, thanks to the lemon's deposit-removing properties. But what about the issue of dishes not being completely clean?

Vinegar is an effective and cost-saving solution for cleaning the interior of a dishwasher. It removes fat and food leftovers that can accumulate over time. Vinegar also helps dissolve limescale that builds up on the sprayers. Plus, you don't need to worry about any lasting smell, as vinegar has a rapid evaporation rate.

Wondering how to clean a dishwasher with vinegar? Start by removing all dishes and cutlery baskets from the machine. Then, place a cup filled with vinegar at the bottom of the dishwasher. Set the temperature to 158 degrees Fahrenheit and begin the washing cycle. Don't forget: there's no need to add any detergents.