Keeping your dishwasher odor-free: Tips on mold prevention and maintenance

A dishwasher, undeniably, is one of those appliances that contribute significantly to our lifestyle. Until the recent past, it was a luxury that only a few could afford. However, this scenario has changed over the past few years as the cost of the machines dropped below $270. Most dishwasher owners agree that they cannot envision life without it.

This marvelous device saves water, money, and our precious time. Just by tossing dirty dishes into it, popping in a tablet, and starting any program, you can look forward to perfectly cleaned, shining dishes within an hour. But sometimes, an unwelcome odor emanates from the appliance. How do you get rid of this dishwasher smell? We'll share the solution.

Water residue, food scraps, and insufficient airflow combine to form a breeding ground for mold. It's easy to envision a dishwasher as an ideal habitat for bacteria— even if you pre-rinse the dishes by hand. Just a minute amount of food residue reaching the filter can trigger the unpleasant odor.

Regular cleaning is essential for your dishwasher. For this, you can resort to commercially available cleaning products or utilize items you already have at home. Vinegar is one such item you can effectively use for cleaning. In conjunction with baking soda, it can help eliminate the dirt, mold, and persistent odors.

To use, first, empty your appliance, then sprinkle approximately 3.5 ounces of baking soda at the bottom, and pour in about 8.5 fluid ounces of vinegar. Close the appliance and start it on the hottest possible cycle. Once the cycle comes to an end, your dishwasher will look and smell sparkling clean. Carrying out this cleaning routine at least once a month will help to increase the lifespan of your appliance.

A foul smell from the dishwasher can be rather vexing. After a thorough cleaning, your dishwasher should ideally be devoid of any objectionable odor. However, to ensure your dishwasher perpetually smells nice, there is a simple trick. All it takes is a little something—a lemon peel. Just place it on the top rack and start the dishwasher. The peel's essential oils, responsible for its refreshing citrus aroma, is the secret ingredient here. Thanks to this uncomplicated tip, you will no longer have to tolerate any unpleasant odors from your dishwasher.