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Dishwashers should be cleaned a minimum of once every 3 months, but really it should be done monthly. This is to prevent germ buildup and will help keep your machine running smoothly. Dishwasher maintenance isn’t too difficult, you’ll simply clean the filter, wipe down the spray arms with vinegar or rubbing alcohol, and run the cycle on empty. If there is any debris, you can remove it with a small metal pick. Do not use wood as the tip can break off inside the machine.

The frequency for cleaning your dishwasher filter depends on your usage habits. If you run the dishwasher daily and don't scrape or rinse dishes before loading, you should clean the filter about once a month. For those who use it only once or twice a week and rinse items beforehand, cleaning it every three to six months may be sufficient. A clear sign that your filter needs cleaning is a musty smell, even after a wash cycle. Regularly cleaning the filter is important to prevent food buildup and clogging over time. It can be helpful to add this maintenance task to your calendar to stay on schedule.

Some common signs you have a dirty dishwasher filter are:

• Food sticking to your dishes even after a thorough wash cycle

• Odor coming from your dishwasher

• Stains left on dishes and utensils

• Water pooling in your dishwasher

• Food stuck to parts of the dishwasher, like the racks, walls, or sprayer arm

Your first instinct might be to grab the bleach to clean a moldy dishwasher, but it’s not the best product for the job. You don’t want to use bleach to clean stainless steel components if your dishwasher has them, as it can cause significant damage. In addition, the scent of bleach can linger if not rinsed well, causing your dishes to retain a smell (and even taste) of bleach.