Our team of experts have purchased different types, models, and sizes of dishwashers from various platforms, including official ones, to conduct real reviews and analyze their quality, performance, and level of cleanliness to determine which dishwashers are of high quality and suitable for which families.
Why Cleaning Your Dishwasher Matters
Your dishwasher works hard to keep your dishes sparkling, but it’s not immune to grime, grease, and mineral buildup. Over time, food particles, soap scum, and hard water deposits can clog filters, coat the interior, and even cause funky odors. A dirty dishwasher doesn’t just affect its performance—it can leave your dishes less clean and harbor germs. Regular maintenance ensures your machine runs efficiently, extends its lifespan, and keeps your kitchen hygienic. Let’s dive into the six best ways to clean your dishwasher in 2025, with practical steps and expert-backed tips to get the job done right.
Method 1: Deep Clean with Vinegar and Baking Soda
One of the most effective and budget-friendly ways to clean your dishwasher is with household staples: white vinegar and baking soda. These natural cleaners tackle grease, odors, and light mineral buildup without harsh chemicals. Start by removing the bottom rack and checking the drain for debris like food scraps or small utensils. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with one cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. The vinegar breaks down grease and neutralizes odors. Next, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run another short hot cycle. This helps scrub away stubborn stains and leaves the interior fresh.
Pro Tip: Avoid mixing vinegar and baking soda in the same cycle, as they can neutralize each other’s cleaning power. If your dishwasher has heavy buildup, repeat the vinegar cycle before moving to baking soda. For more detailed steps, check out this guide from Good Housekeeping.
Method 2: Use a Dedicated Dishwasher Cleaner
For a hassle-free option, dishwasher cleaning tablets or liquids, like affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner, are formulated to tackle tough grime and limescale. These products are designed to work with your machine’s hot water cycle to dissolve buildup in hard-to-reach areas, such as spray arms and pipes. Simply place the tablet or pour the liquid into the detergent dispenser (follow the product instructions) and run a normal cycle without dishes. Many cleaners also include deodorizing agents to eliminate lingering smells.
Best Product Recommendation: affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is a top choice for its proven effectiveness. A reviewer on Amazon raves, “I was skeptical, but this stuff is amazing! My dishwasher was starting to smell, and after one cycle with affresh, it’s like new again. No residue, no odor, just clean.” This product is especially handy for monthly maintenance to keep your dishwasher in top shape.
How we test these dishwashers
Our team members, in addition to using them inside the lab to review them, for each member, they also use them in their respective homes, on a real day-to-day basis. We tested the dishwasher types, built-in,portable, and countertop, for cleaning, quietness, experience, and performance. Whether you value energy efficiency and quietness, or on top of intelligence, I’m sure you’ll get the dishwasher that fits your needs here.
Our team also analyzed professional review data from a number of authoritative media outlets (including Consumer Reports, Wirecutter, CNET, etc.), focusing on key metrics such as their cleaning performance, drying effect, noise level, energy-saving efficiency, and ease of installation. Based on these indicators, in comparison with the data from our tests, we finally present the best dishwasher for you.
You can also use the dishwasher recommendation tool we’ve built below to find out which dishwasher is right for you:
Method 3: Clean the Filter Manually
Most dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom that traps food particles. A clogged filter can reduce cleaning efficiency and cause water to pool. To clean it, remove the bottom rack, unscrew or unlock the filter (consult your manual for specifics), and rinse it under warm water. Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to scrub away debris. For stubborn grease, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes before rinsing. Cleaning the filter every month prevents buildup and ensures your dishes come out spotless. Wirecutter emphasizes that a clean filter can prevent costly repairs and improve performance.
Method 4: Scrub the Spray Arms
The spray arms are critical for distributing water evenly, but their tiny holes can get clogged with food or mineral deposits. Remove each spray arm (usually by unscrewing or popping them off—check your manual) and inspect the holes. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any blockages, then rinse under running water. For hard water buildup, soak the arms in a vinegar-water solution (1:1 ratio) for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing. Reattach the arms securely and run a short cycle to ensure they’re spinning properly. This step is often overlooked but can make a huge difference in cleaning power.
Method 5: Wipe Down the Door and Gasket
The dishwasher’s door and rubber gasket are prime spots for mold and mildew due to trapped moisture. Use a damp cloth with a mild dish soap solution to wipe down the door’s interior, paying attention to crevices where grime hides. For the gasket, gently pull it back and clean with a soft brush or cloth dipped in a vinegar-water mix. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the rubber over time. Dry the area thoroughly to prevent mold growth. Regular cleaning of these areas keeps your dishwasher odor-free and hygienic.
Method 6: Tackle Hard Water Stains with Citric Acid
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can dull your dishwasher’s interior and affect its performance. Citric acid is a powerful, natural descaler that can help. Empty the dishwasher, sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of powdered citric acid (available at most grocery stores) into the bottom, and run a hot cycle. The acid dissolves limescale and calcium buildup, leaving the interior shiny. Be cautious not to overuse citric acid, as it can be corrosive to some dishwasher components. For severe buildup, consider a professional descaling product recommended by Consumer Reports.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
When selecting dishwasher cleaning products, consider your machine’s needs and your water type. For routine maintenance, a product like affresh is reliable and widely available. If you prefer natural options, white vinegar and baking soda are cost-effective and eco-friendly but require more effort. For hard water areas, look for cleaners with citric acid or limescale-fighting ingredients. Always check your dishwasher’s manual for approved cleaning agents to avoid damage. Frequency matters too—clean your dishwasher every 1-2 months, or more often if you notice odors or reduced performance. Reading user reviews on platforms like Amazon can help you choose products with proven results.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dishwasher
Beyond deep cleaning, small habits can keep your dishwasher in top condition. Scrape food off dishes before loading to reduce debris in the filter. Run the hot water tap before starting a cycle to ensure the dishwasher fills with warm water for better cleaning. If your dishwasher has a self-cleaning cycle, use it sparingly, as it’s not a substitute for manual cleaning. Finally, leave the door slightly ajar after cycles to let moisture escape and prevent mold. These simple steps can save you time and money on repairs.
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Summary:
Our team evaluated each dishwasher for different types of bowls, spoons, plates, etc. to clean, as well as for different grease stains with fully automated cleaning. In addition to the various daily cleaning assessments, we also tested whether these dishwashers are good for manual maintenance and care. We also evaluated how long they last and whether they meet expectations. If you have any questions about the above recommended dishwashers, you can let us know in this comment section. We will get back to you promptly.
