How to Deep Clean a Smelly Dishwasher with 2 Cheap Household Items

Many homeowners assume that because a dishwasher washes dishes with soap every day, it automatically cleans itself. Unfortunately, this is a myth. Over time, food particles, grease, soap scum, and hard water minerals accumulate in the filter, spray arms, and door seals. This build-up creates a terrible odor and stops your machine from cleaning properly, leaving your glasses cloudy. Before you call a repairman or buy expensive commercial cleaners, you can completely sanitize your machine using two cheap kitchen items: white vinegar and baking soda. Here is how to do it in three easy steps.Step 1: Clean the Filter (The Source of the Smell)Most people do not even know their dishwasher has a filter. Look at the very bottom of the machine, under the lower rack. Lock your fingers onto the plastic cylinder and twist it counterclockwise to pull it out. You will likely find a layer of trapped food sludge. Rinse the filter under hot running tap water. Use an old toothbrush and a drop of dish soap to gently scrub the mesh screen until all debris is gone. Twist the clean filter back into its place.Step 2: The Hot Vinegar CycleWhite vinegar is a natural acid that breaks down grease, removes soap scum, and eliminates bacteria causing the bad smell. Take a standard dishwasher-safe bowl or measuring cup and fill it with one cup of plain white vinegar. Place the bowl upright on the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Do not add any dish soap. Close the door and run the machine on the hottest cycle possible (often called "Heavy Duty" or "Sanitize"). The vinegar will slowly spray out during the cycle and clean the entire interior of the machine.Step 3: The Baking Soda DeodorizerOnce the vinegar cycle finishes, open the door. You will already notice a clean look. To remove stubborn stains and guarantee a fresh smell, grab a handful of baking soda (about one cup). Sprinkle it evenly across the entire bottom floor of the empty dishwasher. Run a second, shorter cycle using hot water. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and a mild abrasive, which will scrub away any remaining odors and stains.ConclusionBy spending less than two dollars on vinegar and baking soda, you can restore your dishwasher to brand-new condition. Doing this quick DIY maintenance once a month will extend the lifespan of your appliance, lower your electricity bills by helping the machine run faster, and ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean every single time.