How to Disinfect Your Dishwasher

Your dishwasher might be getting all the food off your dishes, but the inside could be covered in germs. While dishwashing detergent might be great at getting food off, it isn’t meant to sanitize anything. Luckily, with a few household products, you can disinfect your dishwasher and get rid of odors all in one shot.

Start by Disinfecting any Small Parts of your Dishwasher

Fill your sink up with hot soapy water. You can use dish soap, but a little antibacterial soap will help get rid of any germs that are hanging on. Take all of the removable components out of the dishwasher such as the utensil basket, any cup guards and even the drain filter is yours is easily removable. Scrub everything and replace it in the dishwasher.

Clean and Disinfect the Dishwasher Drain

Pull out and remove the bottom rack of your dishwasher. Check the drain for any food remains and clean them out if there are any. Food particles are a perfect breeding ground for germs and can contribute to bad odors in your dishwasher. Dip a sponge in soapy water and scrub the inside walls of the dishwasher, the sprayer, and heating element. If you’re having trouble getting the soap scum or food particles to come off then you can use some baking soda as a mild abrasive element to help the job along. Replace the dish rack once everything is clean.

Clean the Dishwasher Seals

You can use an old toothbrush to scrub the rubber seal around the door. Dip the toothbrush into some hot soapy water and scrub the seal until it’s clean again.

Use Vinegar or Powdered Laundry Bleach to Disinfect the Whole Dishwasher

It is very important that you never mix vinegar and bleach. If you do poisonous gasses will be created in your dishwasher. You can use either one to disinfect your dishwasher as long as you don’t use them together. It’s also important to note that if you have a stainless steel dishwasher you should not use bleach. The chlorine will erode the metal. If you decide to use vinegar pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into a glass or other dishwasher safe container and put the container in the top rack of the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on a regular cycle with the hottest water possible. If using powdered laundry bleach, fill your detergent compartment with the powder and run the dishwasher through a regular cycle with the hottest water possible.

Need Help? Call Us!

Like any home repairs, if you feel uncomfortable performing these tasks it’s best to call a professional. If you get in over your head give us a call at (714) 987-9801 or (949) 293-2037