How to Clean a Dishwasher
Cleaning a dishwasher and keeping a dishwasher clean will improve it performance and life. Oils, grease, lime, and rust all build up in the tub and the internal parts. A clean dishwasher will work better, be quieter, and be more efficient than a dirty one. I have found three different ways to clean a dishwasher depending on the type of stains or smells.
Method #1 - How to Clean a Dishwasher with Bleach
This type of cleaning is best for smells and mold in the dishwasher. Add 1 tablespoon of bleach to the bottom of the tub and run a full cycle with the tub empty. If your dishwasher, has a high temp option go ahead and use it.
Method #2 - How to Clean a Dishwasher with Vinegar
This method is best for cleaning lime scale and rust from the pump, tub, and other interal parts. Select the hottest, longest cycle and place a cup of vinegar in the upper rack. Run a full cycle with the dishwasher empty. This is also a great preventative care option for stainless steel dishwasher tubs.
Method #3 - How to Clean a Dishwasher with LemiShine
This is my favorite way to clean a dishwasher. It eliminates the smells and remove the lime and hardwater buildups. The recommended approach is an overnight soak, but a few hours has worked well for me. Place 1/4 cup of LemiShine in the bottom of the dishwasher and let it fill with water. Let the cycle go for about 5 minutes then stop it. This soak will allow the LemiShine to remove years of lime and grease buildups. After the the soak let the dishwasher finish it regular cycle.
You also can use LemiShine with every load to prevent the hard water, lime, and calcium from building up. Mix your regular dishwashing detergent with LemiShine in a ratio of 1:1 (50/50). It will keep your dishwasher clean and your glassware sparkling.
Along with these steps the gasket can be cleaned with a regular household cleaner and warm water. Check with the manufacturer for specific cleaning instructions.