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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.

Local plumbing codes and manufacturer recommendations typically dictate the minimum distance between a sink and a dishwasher. This is generally 18 to 24 inches, providing enough room for easy loading and unloading of dishes without hindering the sink's function. Maintaining this separation not only adds convenience but also reduces the chances of water damage and optimizes plumbing connections.

Limescale can build up outside your dishwasher if you live in a home with hard tap water. Any household surface exposed to water and heat may have unsightly limescale deposits, including kettles for boiling water, sinks, countertops, toilets, taps, tubs, shower doors, glassware, and aquariums. Glass, laminate, porcelain, granite, and other similar surfaces can all have limescale.

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.