From your bathtub and shower to your clothes washer and vacuum, it’s an undeniable fact that the things in your home you depend on for cleaning require regular maintenance to get the job done. That includes your household dishwasher, the appliance you trust to keep your cookware and tableware clean and sanitary. Without routine cleaning, all the grease, food scraps and detergent residue that accumulate in the machine can compromise its efficiency and pose health dangers to you and your family. Use these tips from your friends at Handyman Connection of Eden Prairie to keep your dishwasher clean and sparkling.

Clean the Interior

After removing the racks from the dishwasher, carefully inspect the drain and spray arms. Use a toothpick, wire or pin to clear away any debris. If your machine has a removable filter, take it out and wash it with warm, soapy water. Use a damp cloth dipped in plain white vinegar to wipe down the seal on the dishwasher door. Clean the racks and place them back into the machine.

Disinfect Surfaces

Vinegar is a natural antibacterial, which makes it a safe choice for disinfecting dishwasher surfaces. To decontaminate every nook and cranny, fill a container with one cup of white vinegar, set in on the top rack of the dishwasher and run the machine through a hot-water cycle. For a steam clean, keep the door closed for around 20 minutes after the cycle is completed.

Fight Stains and Odors

If the interior of your dishwasher smells stale or look dull, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom, and then run the machine through another hot-water cycle. Baking soda not only combats odors but helps cut through mineral residues left by hard water as well. After the wash, wipe the interior walls dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Wipe Down the Exterior

Because the door of your dishwasher typically houses critical controls, it’s best to clean the exterior with a clean, soft cloth that’s only slightly dampened with water or vinegar. If your dishwasher has stainless steel components, be sure to use cleansers made specifically for that material. Never use bleach on stainless steel, as it can corrode the surface.

Keep It Clean

Following a few simple guidelines every time you use your dishwashers can prolong its service life, optimize its efficiency and save you from tough cleaning jobs down the road:

1. Fill detergent receptacles carefully. Using too much detergent can lead to a build-up of unwanted residue in the machine and can even cause spots on flatware.

2. Run full loads. Dishwasher detergents are designed to encounter a certain amount of grease and food with each cycle. Light loads can lead to excess detergent residue.

3. Choose low-temperature drying. Ultra-hot steam and water can leave hard-to-remove spots on glassware.

A well-maintained dishwasher will offer you many years of quality service, saving you the daily task of washing dishes by hand. If you’re considering installing a dishwasher in your home or replacing an existing model, don’t hesitate to contact the pros at Handyman Connection of Eden Prairie for expert assistance. We’ll ensure that your new dishwasher is hooked up properly so that it works at peak efficiency and performance for many years to come.