Dishwasher Cleaning

How can I deep clean my dishwasher naturally?

Your dishwasher works hard every single day but if it’s not clean, your dishes won’t be either.

If you’ve noticed cloudy glasses, funny smells, or things just not coming out properly, it’s probably time to give your machine a proper refresh. The good news? It’s quick, easy, and you can do it with simple bits you already have at home. Let’s get it sorted!

1. The Fortnightly Deep Clean (My Go-To Routine)

I always say a clean dishwasher = clean dishes.

Here’s how to give it a proper reset:

• Mix white vinegar and a splash of lemon juice in a spray bottle

• Spray around the door seals, edges and hinges (this is where all the grime hides!)

• Fill a small bowl with white vinegar and place it on the top rack

• Run the hottest cycle

This helps break down grease, limescale and any hidden build-up inside the machine.

✦ White Vinegar
✦ Spray Bottles 

2. Get Rid of Odours Instantly

If your dishwasher smells a bit off, this works so well:

• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda along the bottom of the machine

• Run a short cycle

It neutralises odours and leaves everything smelling fresh again.

✦ Bicarbonate of Soda 

3. Clean the Filter (Don’t Skip This!)

This is one of the biggest game-changers.

• Unscrew and remove the filter at the bottom

• Wash it in the sink with warm soapy water

• Use a dish brush to remove trapped food and grease

A clean filter = better drainage and no more unpleasant smells.

✦ Dish Brush 
✦ Washing Up Liquid 

4. Check the Spray Arms

If your dishes aren’t coming out properly clean, this could be why:

• Remove the spray arms (if possible)

• Check the little holes for blockages

• Use a cocktail stick or pin to clear any debris

This helps water flow properly and reach every dish.

5. Prevent Cloudy Glasses & Limescale

To keep everything running smoothly:

• Always top up dishwasher salt

• Use rinse aid for streak-free drying

• Stick to good quality dishwasher tablets

This helps prevent that cloudy film caused by hard water.

✦ Dishwasher Salt 
✦ Rinse Aid
✦ Dishwasher Tablets on Amazon

6. Lynsey’s Money-Saving Tip 💸

Buy your cleaning staples like white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda in bulk it works out so much cheaper and you’ll use them all over the house.

7. Keep It Clean Going Forward

• Wipe seals weekly

• Rinse heavily soiled dishes before loading

• Run a hot cycle regularly

• Do a deep clean every couple of weeks

Final Lynsey Tip ✨

This is one of those jobs people forget but once you start doing it regularly, you’ll notice such a difference.

Cleaner machine, fresher smell, sparkling dishes… and no more wondering why things aren’t coming out properly 🙌