Table of Contents
Quality Service Guarantee Or Painting Free
Get a rental agreement with doorstep delivery
Find the BEST deals and get unbelievable DISCOUNTS directly from builders!
5-Star rated painters, premium paints and services at the BEST PRICES!
Loved what you read? Share it with others!
How to Clean Dishwasher Using Vinegar, Baking Soda and Tips in 2026
Published : January 31, 2025, 12:00 AM
Updated : December 29, 2025, 2:20 PM
Author :
priyanka.saha
Table of Contents
Want to learn more about how to clean a dishwasher properly for complete hygiene and efficiency? Begin with a drain and filter inspection, remove racks, scrub spray arms, seals, and walls, then wipe interiors. Follow with a deep clean using vinegar cycles and baking soda deodorizing, which will generally range between ₹100 and ₹400. Applicable products include vinegar, baking soda, dishwasher cleaner, and brushes. These cleaning processes prevent clogs, odors, bacterial buildup, poor drying, and expensive repairs while consistently improving performance and daily dish results.
Tools and Natural Remedies Required for Dishwasher Cleaning
Effective dishwasher cleaning needs simple tools and natural remedies that are easy to find and safe to use. Items like vinegar, baking soda, lemon, soft brushes, clothes, and mild detergent effectively remove grease and odors. Below is a list of tools and remedies to check:
- White Vinegar: It helps in breaking down the grease and removes the smell.
- Baking Soda: This ingredient helps brighten the interiors and gets rid of the lingering smell.
- Cloth or soft sponge: This helps gently wipe the dishwasher surface.
- Small Brush or a toothbrush: This helps reach out to the tighter spaces and corners and clean them.
- Rubber gloves: It helps protect your hands from hot water and cleaners.
- Dish soap: This helps in removing the tough stains and grease before the main cleaning. This helps in cleaning the dishwasher thoroughly.
Tips to Maintain the Cleanliness of the Dishwasher
Keeping your dishwasher clean is easier than it looks. All you need to do is clean it at regular intervals. This will help maintain cleanliness, and you don’t have to spend hours cleaning it once or twice a year. Here’s how to keep the dishwasher clean.
Quality Service Guarantee Or Painting Free
Get a rental agreement with doorstep delivery
Find the BEST deals and get unbelievable DISCOUNTS directly from builders!
5-Star rated painters, premium paints and services at the BEST PRICES!
- Daily care: Keep the door slightly open after each wash and wipe exterior spills immediately with a damp cloth.
- Weekly Care: Remove and rinse the filter every alternate week, gently scrubbing away stuck food under running water.
- Monthly Care: Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar once a month to remove grease and keep the dishwasher fresh.
- Safety Tip: Switch off power before cleaning, avoid harsh or mixed chemicals, and always use soft brushes or cloths.
Why Is It Important to Clean a Dishwasher?
Regularly cleaning a dishwasher is essential to maintaining hygiene, efficiency, and durability, as hidden grease, food residue, and moisture can lead to odors, poor cleaning results, and frequent appliance breakdowns. Below are a few reasons to clean the dishwasher:
- Removes grease, food particles, and bacteria that cause bad odors
- Improves dishwashing performance and drying efficiency.
- Prevents clogs in filters and spray arms
- Reduce repair costs and extend appliance lifespan
- Support natural methods, such as how to clean a dishwasher with vinegar, for safe, effective maintenance.
How to Clean Dishwasher Filter and Racks?
This simple method helps clean the dishwasher filter and racks, removes grease, odors, and buildup, and keeps your dishwasher hygienic and efficient.
- The first step is to detach all the racks from the dishwasher. This will give you ample space to clean and allow you to access the filter.
- After removing the racks, you need to wash them. Use soapy water and scrub them properly. Use a soft sponge to scrub; this will help you clean properly without scratching the racks. Once you are done scrubbing, rinse them thoroughly.
- After that, you need to find the dishwasher filter, usually at the bottom centre.
- Then, carefully remove it by twisting it and gently pulling it.
- To clean the filter, place it under running water and use a soft brush to remove dirt or food particles stuck there.
- Lastly, let the filter and the racks dry. Once the entire dishwasher is cleaned, put them back.
How to Clean the Inside of a Dishwasher?
To clean the inside of the dishwasher, wipe walls, seals, and spray arms, run a hot vinegar cycle, sprinkle baking soda, and remember to clean the dishwasher inlet filter for better water flow and efficiency.
- The first step in cleaning the inside of the dishwasher is emptying it. You have to remove the racks, dishes, and the filter from it.
- Secondly, create a proper cleaner mix. Take white vinegar in a safe container. This ingredient helps clean the dishwasher without the need for harsh chemicals.
- Then, place the cleaner container on the top rack of the dishwasher. The top rack is the best place for cleaning.
- After that, simply turn on the dishwasher. In the setting, choose the hottest water and start the cleaning cycle. The hot water helps the vinegar work nicely.
- After the cycle is completed, open the dishwasher. Then, use a damp cloth to whip the interior of the dishwasher. Remember to clean the door and the area around the gasket.
- Then, keep the dishwasher open so that the inside dries out.
How to Clean the Dishwasher with Vinegar?
The vinegar can be used in another way to clean your dishwasher deep. Follow the steps to clean the dishwasher smartly:
- The first step of the dishwasher cleaning remains the same. Empty the dishwasher and remove the filter and the racks.
- Then, instead of pouring the white vinegar into a bowl and placing it in the dishwasher, pour it directly into the detergent dispenser. This method distributes the vinegar evenly during the washing cycle.
- Then, set a long hot water cycle to start the cleaning. Hot water will clean the dishwasher properly and deodorise it.
- Then start the dishwasher and let the vinegar do its magic. It will break the residues down and get rid of the odour. It will also clean the machine’s inner workings.
- After the washing cycle, keep the dishwasher open for a couple of hours. This will help dry your dishwasher and keep the mildew out.
How to Clean Dishwasher with Baking Soda?
Apart from vinegar, another magic ingredient for cleaning the dishwasher is baking soda. Cleaning the dishwasher with baking powder is very easy. Follow these steps for effective cleaning:
- Empty the dishwasher. Remove all the utensils, racks and filters from it.
- Then, sprinkle a cup of baking soda at the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Set a short cycle for cleaning with hot water. With the help of baking powder the dishwasher will be cleaned. The odour will also erase.
- After the cleaning cycle, use a damp cloth to wipe the excess baking soda.
- Finally, keep the dishwasher door open and let it dry so that it smells fresh once it is done.
How to Clean a Dishwasher Drain?
Cleaning a dishwasher drain is important to prevent clogs, bad odors, and water backups. It ensures smooth drainage, especially if done using homemade cleaning aids. Below are the steps on how to clean the dishwasher drain:
- Switch off the power, remove the bottom rack, and take out the filter
- Clean visible food debris and sludge using gloves and paper towels
- Pour hot water mixed with vinegar and baking soda into the drain
- Scrub gently with a soft brush to loosen grease buildup
- Rinse with hot water and refill the filter properly
How To Clean My Dishwasher Exterior?
Just cleaning the inside, racks, and the filter of a dishwasher is not enough. To clean the dishwasher completely, you need to clean the exterior properly as well. Here’s how you can do it:
- Gather the supplies needed to clean the outside of the dishwasher. You will need mild dishwashing soap and a sponge or soft cloth.
In a bowl of warm water, mix a spoonful of dish wash soap. - Then, take the sponge or cloth and dip it in soapy water. Squeeze out the excess and then wipe the outside of the dishwasher gently and nicely. Don’t forget to clean the handles and the door, where fingerprints are left the most.
- After that, wash the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe the dishwasher. Wipe it nicely to keep the streaks away.
- Finally, use a dry towel to soak up all the water from the exterior. This will make the exterior shine and prevent water spots.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning the Dishwasher
Cleaning a dishwasher incorrectly can reduce performance, damage parts, and cause odors, so knowing common mistakes helps maintain hygiene, efficiency, and longer appliance life at home for busy households. Below are the mistakes to avoid:
- Using harsh chemicals that damage seals and interiors
- Ignoring the filter and drain during cleaning
- Scrubbing spray arms with hard or sharp tools
- Overusing detergent or mixing cleaning products
- Skipping regular cleaning and waiting for foul odors
Tips to Maintain Cleanliness of Dishwasher
Keeping your dishwasher clean is easier than it looks. All you need to do is clean it at regular intervals. This will help maintain cleanliness, and you don’t have to spend hours cleaning it once or twice a year. Here’s how to maintain the cleanliness of the dishwasher.
- Start cleaning your dishwasher every month. Run an empty cycle with vinegar to keep it clean and fresh.
- If there is any dirt or spills on its exterior, wipe it right away with a damp cloth.
- Clean its filter regularly. In every alternative weeks pull it out and wash it under running water. If any food is stuck, clean them immediately.
- After cleaning the dishwasher, keep it open. To dry it out and keep it fresh.
Make Dishwasher Cleaning Easy with NoBroker!
If cleaning the dishwasher feels like a task, NoBroker Cleaning Services is here to help. The NoBroker team is ready to help with how to clean the dishwasher effectively and hassle-free.
Our experts handle everything so that you don’t have to worry. They use the best tools and techniques which can make your dishwasher sparkling clean. Are you ready to see your dishwasher shine? Contact us today, and let us handle all the tough cleaning work for you!
Frequently Asked Questions?
Ans: Yes, it is important to clean the dishwasher. It helps in maintaining hygiene as well as long-life of the machine.
Ans: For deep cleaning, pour white vinegar into the detergent compartment and start running the dishwasher for a long cycle. Then follow it with sprinkled baking opda at the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short cycle with this to get rid of any lingering smell.
Ans: Start by removing food particles or debris from the drain. Then, pour a vinegar and baking soda mixt down the dishwasher drain. After waiting for 15 minutes, flush it with hot water for clearing any sort of blockages.
Ans: You can use diluted apple cider or white vinegar to clean your dishwasher.
Ans: It should be cleaned regularly. A regular interval of one month is best for cleaning a dishwasher.
Recommended Reading
How to Clean Kitchen Exhaust Fan Properly: Tools, Process and DIY Solutions
January 15, 2025
13967+ views
How to Clean Your Kitchen Sink: Simple Steps for a Sparkling Finish in 2026
January 31, 2025
12569+ views
14 Easy Kitchen Cleaning Tips for a Fresh, Shiny and Hygienic Home in 2026
September 11, 2025
10575+ views
How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies in Your Kitchen: Tips and Tricks
January 31, 2025
7499+ views
How to Clean Microwave Oven: Quick and Effective Cleaning Hacks You Must Try Out
January 31, 2025
6198+ views
Loved what you read? Share it with others!
NoBroker Easy Cleaning Tips Testimonials
Good
Wonder you
Looking good
Good condition
Extremely satisfied with the cleaning service, the team was careful, thorough, and really attentive to details. My home feels spotless and well taken care of.
Nice
Nice
The cleaners were thorough, efficient, and did a fantastic job.
The cleaners were thorough, efficient, and did a fantastic job.
The cleaners were thorough, efficient, and did a fantastic job.
One of the best company
Best work 💝
Wonderful 😊
Provide good and best services 👍
Nice!!
Great experience 😁
Good Place
Very good experience
Excellent
Suparr
Good
Awesome
My goods were delivered on time, as promised, with careful handling.
NoBroker Movers made my relocation stress-free and seamless.
The service was reliable, with attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
My goods were delivered on time, as promised, with careful handling.
NoBroker Movers provided a smooth and stress-free relocation experience.
Im using their Bathroom subscription plan from past 2 years and their services are very good.
Booked full house cleaning for Ugadi, they were on time and completed work very neatly Highly recommended !!
Professional and hustle free services
Took full home cleaning. They did an amazing job!
Most Viewed Articles
List of the Best Home Cleaning Apps: Book Home Cleaning Services for Daily and Deep Cleaning
January 31, 2025
24115+ views
Deep Clean Your Washing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide & Tips
January 31, 2025
20299+ views
Diwali Cleaning Tips and Guide: Make Your Home Shine for the Festival in 2026
January 31, 2025
18141+ views
Top 10 Tile Cleaner Liquids with Prices in India for 2026
February 23, 2025
17068+ views
How to Get Rid of Bathroom Flies: 8 Quick Methods
January 31, 2025
16697+ views
Author
Recent blogs in
How to Remove Ink Stains From Clothes: Methods and Fabric-Specific Solutions
January 9, 2026 by Vivek Mishra
How to Remove Yellow Stains From White Clothes: 6 Effective Methods to Remove
January 9, 2026 by Krishnanunni H M
How to Clean Non Stick Cookware Safely Without Damaging the Coating in 2026
January 7, 2026 by Siri Hegde K
Complete Deep Cleaning Checklist for Every Room in Your Home 2026
December 23, 2025 by Krishnanunni H M
Ultimate Daily Cleaning Checklist by Room for Easy Home Maintenance
December 17, 2025 by Kruthi
Full RM + FRM support
Join the conversation!