How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar: the Ultimate Dishwasher Cleaning Guide 

We all know cleaning the dishwasher is important, but let's be honest, it's not exactly the most exciting task and always looming on to-do lists. 

Does your dishwasher emit a less-than-pleasant aroma, or leave behind stubborn water marks on your glasses? You're not alone! Thankfully, there's a simple, budget-friendly solution hiding in your pantry: vinegar!

Vinegar, a staple in most kitchens, is a versatile cleaning agent with a surprising superpower – it's a fantastic dishwasher cleaner! Its natural acidity cuts through grease, mineral deposits, and grime that can build up inside your dishwasher, leaving it fresh, clean, and functioning optimally. 

Benefits of cleaning dishwasher with vinegar:

• Effortless Degreasing: Vinegar effortlessly cuts through greasy buildup that can accumulate on the interior of your dishwasher, including the spray arms and filter. This ensures optimal cleaning performance for your dishes. 

• Mineral Buildup Buster: Hard water minerals can leave unsightly white spots on your dishes and clog the dishwasher's internal components. Vinegar's acidity dissolves these deposits, keeping your dishwasher functioning smoothly. 

• Odor Obliteration: Lingering food particles and trapped moisture can create unpleasant odors within your dishwasher. Vinegar's deodorizing properties eliminate these smells, leaving your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean. 

• Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective: Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, vinegar is a natural and non-toxic solution. It's readily available, affordable, and gentle on the environment, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Vinegar's magic lies in its acetic acid content. This acid breaks down mineral deposits, dissolves soap scum, and loosens food particles. Additionally, vinegar's deodorizing properties help eliminate lingering food smells.

Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher with Vinegar

Now that you understand the power of vinegar cleaning, Here's a simple, yet effective cleaning method:

What You'll Need:

• 1 cup of distilled white vinegar (avoid colored vinegar as it may stain)
• Dishwasher-safe mug or bowl
• Baking soda (optional, for extra odor control)
• Dishcloth (optional)

The Cleaning Process:

1. Empty the Dishwasher: Remove any dishes or utensils from the racks to ensure the dishwasher is empty.  

2. Prep the Vinegar: Pour one cup of distilled white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe mug or bowl. Aim for two-thirds full to avoid overflowing during the cleaning cycle.  

3. Strategic Placement: Place the mug or bowl upright on the top rack of your dishwasher. This ensures the vinegar reaches all areas during the cleaning cycle. For extra cleaning power, consider placing another vinegar-filled mug on the bottom rack.

4. Baking Soda Boost (Optional): If your dishwasher has lingering odors, sprinkle a half cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher before placing the vinegar. Baking soda absorbs odors and helps neutralize any unpleasant smells.

5. Hot Water Cycle: Select the hottest water cycle (ideally your normal or sanitized cycle) available in your dishwasher and run the dishwasher. The hot water temperature will activate the vinegar and enhance its cleaning power.

   Sit back and relax! Run the entire dishwasher cycle uninterrupted. The vinegar will work its magic, dissolving mineral deposits, cutting through grease, and deodorizing the interior.

Baking soda Boost (optional)

For an extra dose of cleaning power, especially if you're dealing with stubborn odors or greasy buildup, consider incorporating baking soda. Before placing the vinegar on the top rack, sprinkle a half cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher interior. Baking soda absorbs odors and helps loosen any caked-on grime. And follow steps 1-4 from the standard vinegar cleaning method. 

For a Deeper Cleaning of Dishwasher 

For heavily soiled dishwashers or those that haven't been cleaned in a while, consider these additional steps:

• Spray Arm Cleaning: Many dishwashers have removable spray arms. Consult your dishwasher's manual for instructions on removing them. Soak the spray arms in a mixture of warm water and vinegar for 30 minutes before rinsing them clean and reinstalling them. Over time, food particles can clog the spray arm holes, compromising cleaning effectiveness. Regularly inspect the spray arms for blockages and clean them according to your dishwasher's manual. 
• Filter Finesse: Your dishwasher's filter plays a crucial role in trapping food particles and debris. A clogged filter can hinder cleaning performance and contribute to odors. Locate your dishwasher's filter (usually located at the bottom) and consult your manual for cleaning instructions. Most dishwasher filters can be rinsed under running water to remove trapped food particles.
• Door Gasket Defense: The rubber door gasket forms a seal that prevents water from leaking during the cycle. Over time, food debris and grime can accumulate on the gasket, potentially causing leaks and odors. Regularly wipe down the door gasket with a damp cloth to prevent buildup.
• Manual Scrubs for Stubborn Stains: For stubborn hard water stains or mineral deposits on the dishwasher interior, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas, leave it for 15 minutes, and then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse thoroughly.

Frequency is Key:

To maintain optimal dishwasher performance and prevent future buildup, aim to clean it with vinegar every 1-2 months. This regular cleaning routine will keep your dishes sparkling clean and your dishwasher odor-free

Additional tips: Beyond Vinegar Maintaining Your Dishwasher for Optimal Performance

While vinegar is a fantastic cleaning solution for your dishwasher, it's important to remember that a comprehensive cleaning routine requires a little more. Here are some additional tips for maintaining your dishwasher:

• Regularly Scrape Dishes: Before loading your dishwasher, remove any excess food scraps from your dishes. This will prevent food particles from clogging the filter and spray arms.
• Avoid Overload: Resist the urge to cram as many dishes as possible into your dishwasher. Overloading can hinder water circulation and prevent dishes from getting properly cleaned. Refer to your dishwasher's manual for proper loading recommendations.
• Check the Manual: Your dishwasher's manual is a valuable resource. It will provide specific cleaning instructions for your model.

Conclusion  

By using vinegar, you can keep your dishwasher fresh, functioning optimally and your dishes sparkling clean. This natural cleaning method is safe, effective, and a win-win for your wallet and environment making it a smart choice for any eco-conscious homeowner. So, the next time your dishwasher needs a refreshment, ditch the harsh chemicals and reach for the vinegar – your dishes and the environment will thank you!