How to Clean a Dishwasher Without Expensive Products
Dishwashers are the unsung heroes of our kitchens, tirelessly scrubbing our plates, pots, and pans until they sparkle. But even these trusty machines need a bit of TLC to keep them in tip-top shape. If you're wondering how to clean a dishwasher without breaking the bank, you've come to the right place. Our guide will show you that you don't need expensive cleaning products to get your dishwasher looking as good as new. With a few simple steps and affordable solutions from Poundland, you can easily have a clean dishwasher efficiently and effectively. So, let's dive in and discover the best ways to keep your dishwasher running smoothly and your dishes coming out pristine!
How Often Should I Clean My Dishwasher?
Wondering how often you should be cleaning your dishwasher? Well, the general rule of thumb is to give your trusty machine a thorough clean at least every three months. However, if you notice an unpleasant smell, food build-up in the filter, rusting, or if your crockery is coming out with food or grease still on it after the cycle, it’s time to clean it sooner. A dishwasher not washing clean can often be resolved with regular maintenance, keeping it in tip-top shape and ensuring your dishes come out sparkling every time.
The Best Dishwasher Cleaning Products
When it comes to cleaning your dishwasher, you don't need an array of expensive cleaning products to get the job done. All you need is a good cleaner that effectively removes grease, limescale, and other hidden gunk from the pipes to keep your machine running smoothly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes properly, it’s time to invest in some quality products. Check out the Crystale Dishwasher Cleaner, which is perfect for tackling grease and limescale build-up. The Finish Active Lemon Dishwasher Cleaner gives a fresh scent while cleaning the hidden parts of your machine, ensuring it's spotless inside out. And, for regular maintenance, the Crystale In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner is a convenient option to keep your dishwasher in top condition. With these affordable and effective products from Poundland, you can ensure your dishwasher stays as good as new without breaking the bank.
How to Clean a Dishwasher in 3 Steps
Once you've got the right cleaning products, it’s time to tackle the task of cleaning your dishwasher. The best way to clean a dishwasher starts with making sure your machine is completely empty - this is crucial before you dive into the cleaning process. With everything cleared out, you can move on to our three simple steps for a sparkling clean dishwasher. We'll break down these steps in the following sections, so keep reading and get ready to make your dishwasher shine!
1) Clean the Dishwasher Filter
The first step in how to clean a dishwasher filter is to give it a thorough cleaning. Start by locating the filter, which should look like a short cylindrical tube. Twist it to unlock and gently remove it from the machine. Fill your sink or a large bowl with hot water and a few drops of washing liquid - try using a good detergent with a degreaser for better results, like the Fairy Original Washing Liquid. Place the filter in the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes to loosen any debris. Use a sponge or a toothbrush like the Wisdom Regular Plus Toothbrush to scrub away any trapped grime, and then rinse under hot water until it’s free from grease. And here’s a top tip: wipe down the filter opening in your machine with a sponge or cloth like the Mighty Power All-Purpose Cleaning Cloth to remove any lingering food particles or grease. Finally, reverse the steps to replace the filter, ensuring it’s locked back in place securely. This will help ensure your dishwasher performs at its very best.
1a) Soak the Dishwasher Racks & Utensil Holder (If Necessary)
If you’ve noticed a build-up of grease and food on your dishwasher racks and utensil holder, soaking them in a warm, soapy solution can be a game-changer. Simply fill your sink with hot water and a few drops of washing liquid, and let the racks and utensil holder soak for a while. This will help lift away the grime and make scrubbing much easier. However, if your racks and holder aren’t particularly dirty, you can skip this step. It's one of those handy dishwasher cleaning hacks that can make a big difference, but only if your dishwasher parts need it. For those stubborn spots, this trick will keep your dishwasher in tip-top shape!
2) Run a Cycle with The Dishwasher Cleaner
Next up, to deep clean your dishwasher, run a hot cycle with one of our recommended cleaning products. This step ensures that any remaining grease and grime are thoroughly removed from every nook and cranny. Simply place the dishwasher cleaner, like the Crystale Dishwasher Cleaner or the Finish Active Lemon Dishwasher Cleaner, into the detergent dispenser or bottom of the machine, depending on the product instructions. Always make sure to check the specific instructions on the cleaner’s packaging to ensure you’re using it correctly for the best results. Running this cycle is a crucial step to get your dishwasher sparkling clean and working efficiently again!
3) Wipe Down the Outside of Your Dishwasher
While your dishwasher is busy running a cycle with the cleaner, it’s the perfect time to tackle the outside of your appliance. For those with a stainless-steel dishwasher, give it a gleaming finish by using a dedicated stainless-steel cleaner or buffing equal parts of water and vinegar into the steel. Use a microfibre cloth, like the Pepco Scrub Bud Double-Sided Microfibre Pad, for the best results. If your dishwasher has a different finish, the Astonish Kitchen Cleaner in Zesty Lemon is a fantastic choice. Not only is it great for the dishwasher, but it also works wonders around the kitchen, making it a smart, money-saving hack! Wiping down the exterior will leave your dishwasher looking as pristine on the outside as it is on the inside!
How To Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar and Baking Soda
If you’re looking for a natural alternative to freshen up your dishwasher, you can easily clean your dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda. This method is both effective and eco-friendly. Start by placing a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot cycle. The vinegar helps to dissolve grease and remove any lingering odours. After that, sprinkle baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle. The baking soda works to tackle any remaining grime and deodorises the dishwasher, too.
Plus, it’s the perfect task for your Sunday reset! You can check out our “Everything You Need for a Sunday Reset” blog post for more ideas on how to make the most of your weekend clean-up. With these natural cleaning methods, your dishwasher will be sparkling clean without any harsh chemicals!
Budget-Friendly Ways to Clean Your Dishwasher
Cleaning your dishwasher doesn't have to be expensive! From using simple household items like vinegar and baking soda to picking up budget-friendly cleaning products from Poundland, there are plenty of cost-effective ways to keep your dishwasher in tip-top shape.
For more cleaning essentials and handy tips, check out Poundland’s extensive range of cleaning products, available online and in-store. Ready to tackle that dishwasher? Let’s get cleaning!
