A dishwasher has become an essential kitchen appliance. Use these dishwasher maintenance tips to help keep your dishwasher in peak operating condition. Just follow the instructions in our do-it-yourself video.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Vinegar
- Paper towels
Steps To Maintain a Dishwasher
- Periodically remove and clean the trap that is in the bottom of most dishwashers. Run the trap under cool water until there is no debris left in the screens. Make sure that it’s inserted properly when re-installing the trap.
- Check the spray-holes in the arms that circulate the water. If they are clogged, the dishwasher will not do a very good job with your dishes. They should be free of debris and lime and hard water deposits. The arms in some dishwashers are removable. Check the user manual for your dishwasher to see if the arms in your unit can be removed. If they are removable, soak them in a sink in a solution of water and vinegar. Pipe cleaners can be used to clean out the holes. If the arms are not removable, wrap them in paper towels soaked in the vinegar solution for about ten minutes. Then rinse them and wipe them down with another paper towel.
- If the dishwasher racks are worn and have exposed metal that is rusting, use dishwasher repair coatings and/or dishwasher repair caps found in hardware stores that are designed for use with dishwashers. Do not use products such as as RTV silicone for repairing dishwashers unless the product is specifically designed for use with dishwashers. Some products contain toxic substances that can contaminate your dishes.
- Use a rinse agent with your dishwasher to help keep it and your dishes cleaner. If your dishwasher does not have a rinse agent dispenser, periodically pour a cup of vinegar in the dishwasher prior to starting a wash cycle. Vinegar will help prevent mineral deposits and your dishwasher will work better.