This is Why Your Dishwasher Smells Bad | John's Appliance & Bedding | South Daytona | New Smyrna (2024)

At a Glance:

Reasons Your Dishwasher Smells Bad

Common Home Remedies for Deodorizing Your Dishwasher

How To Clean a Smelly Dishwasher

Top Replacements for a Smelly Dishwasher

FAQ

Why Trust Us

Your dishwasher, that trusty appliance designed to make your life easier, suddenly has an unwelcome aroma lingering in your kitchen. The unpleasant scent wafting from your once-freshly-cleaned dishes is off-putting and you find yourself asking, “Why does my dishwasher smell?”

Many homeowners have encountered this mysterious phenomenon, which is why it’s important to understand its root causes and the key to getting rid of it. In this article, we discuss some reasons why your dishwasher smells, common remedies for battling it, and potential dishwasher replacements for those appliances that are too far gone.

Reasons Your Dishwasher Smells Bad

Sometimes, there are just smells in your dishwasher you can’t seem to get rid of. From the smell of eggs, fish, or even a faint smell of sewage, your dishwasher might be holding onto odors for a number of different reasons. If you’re asking yourself, “Why does my dishwasher stink?”, here are some common reasons why that might be:

➤ Improper Drainage:One of the most prevalent reasons for a bad smell in the dishwasher is improper drainage, which can cause stagnant water. If the dishwasher is not draining properly, standing water can accumulate in the bottom of the appliance. This can be due to several reasons, including food particles and debris getting stuck in the filter, spray arms, or other hidden areas.When this water sits at the bottom of the appliance, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria. As these bacteria multiply, they can produce an unpleasant odor that permeates around your dishwasher. It can even transfer to your dishes.

➤ Hard Water Deposits:Hard water deposits are a common issue in areas with high mineral content in the water supply. Over time, minerals such as calcium and magnesium can accumulate in your dishwasher. This can often make your dishwasher smell like eggs or give it a metallic or sulfur-like odor. These deposits can be stubborn and require periodic descaling to eliminate the smell and maintain the dishwasher’s efficiency.

➤ Food Residue:The presence of food residue can contribute to unpleasant dishwasher odors as well. When food debris is not thoroughly cleaned from the filter or spray arms, it can decompose over time and make your dishwasher smell like fish or sewage. Regularly cleaning and removing food particles from these areas can help prevent the buildup of rotting food.

➤ Grease Buildup:Grease buildup is another cause of dishwasher odors. Over time, grease and oil from dishes, pots, and pans can accumulate in the dishwasher. When combined with food particles, this grease can become rancid and emit an unpleasant smell. Regularly cleaning the dishwasher’s interior and removing any grease buildup can help combat this issue.

➤ Mold and Mildew:Mold and mildew growth is another culprit behind dishwasher odors. The moist and warm environment inside the dishwasher provides an ideal breeding ground for these fungi. Mold and mildew can also take hold in hard-to-reach areas like the door gasket or the dishwasher’s interior. This can result in a musty or earthy smell that can often be hard to eliminate.

Common Home Remedies for Deodorizing Your Dishwasher

Here are some common home remedies you can use to deodorize your dishwasher:

Sanitize with Vinegar

Vinegar is an excellent way to clean your dishwasher as it can break down grime and work as a deodorizer. It also doesn’t leave a new odor behind because the smell of vinegar often disappears after drying.

Start by filling a cup or a bowl with white vinegar and placing it on the top rack of your empty dishwasher. Then, run a hot water cycle to sanitize and deodorize the dishwasher.

Try Lemon Freshness

Just like the vinegar remedy, you can do a similar cycle with lemons to help battle odors. Simply place some lemon wedges or slices on the top rack of your empty dishwasher and run a hot water cycle. The citric acid in the lemons helps to eliminate odors and leaves a pleasant, fresh scent when you’re done.

Use Baking Soda

If you’re looking for how to get rid of the smell in your dishwasher, baking soda is another great way to soak up odors and clean your dishwasher at the same time. Keep in mind, that if your dishwasher has accumulated water on the bottom of it, this trick might not be as effective.

Add some baking soda to the bottom of your dishwasher and let it sit for a minute. Then run a short, hot water cycle to let the water clean the rest of the appliance and wash it away. This should help absorb bad smells and leave your dishwasher with a fresh scent.

Try Dishwasher Cleaner

Though it might seem obvious, dishwasher cleaner is a great way to help your appliance with any unwanted smells. These cleaners are often made to fight buildup, grime, residue, and odors. Stop by your local supermarket or home goods store, pick up a bottle that works with your brand of appliance, and follow the instructions.

How To Clean a Smelly Dishwasher

Here are some steps to help you clean and maintain your dishwasher for years to come:

1. Clear the Drain:Before starting any cleaning process, ensure the dishwasher’s drain is clear of debris. Remove the bottom rack and inspect the drain area for any food particles or objects. This can help to ensure proper drainage and allow you to avoid any stagnant water or bacteria buildup.
2. Clean the Filter:While you’re down by the drain, it’s also good to check the filter. All dishwashers have filters, often on the inside of the appliance at the very bottom. These filters often trap food particles and debris, leading to a buildup of various odors. To help eliminate those smells, remove the filter and clean it with warm, soapy water.Do your best to make sure no buildup or food remains before putting it back into the appliance. It might also be helpful to let it soak in some vinegar or baking soda after cleaning, to remove the odors even further.
3. Wipe Down the Interior:Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the interior walls, door, and racks of the dishwasher. Pay attention to corners, crevices, and rubber gaskets where food particles and residue can accumulate.For stubborn stains or buildup, crease a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it to the affected areas and let it sit. You can also use a scrubber or toothbrush and a mixture of warm water and dish soap.
4. Check the Spray Arms:Clogged spray arms can lead to inefficient cleaning and odor buildup. If you feel comfortable doing it yourself, remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly. Then run a test cycle, ensuring water can flow freely and clean all areas of your dishwasher.If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, consider calling an appliance repair specialist. They have the tools and skills to help make any adjustments to your appliance, including the removal of the spray arms.
5. Descale When Necessary:If your dishwasher is prone to hard water buildup, descaling can help remove mineral deposits. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for descaling your dishwasher using a specialized descaling agent. Then, run a cycle without any dishes to rinse the appliance afterward.Though some wait to descale when they notice limescale inside their appliance, descaling once a month or every other month can help maintain your dishwasher.
6. Check Gaskets:Inspect the door gasket for any signs of damage, mold, or mildew. If necessary, clean the gasket using a mixture of water, vinegar, or a mild bleach solution. If the gasket is severely damaged or moldy, you might need to consider replacing it entirely to maintain a proper seal.
7. Avoid Overloading:Overloading the dishwasher can hinder proper water circulation and lead to food residue and odor buildup. If you want to maintain your appliance for a longer period, load it correctly allowing enough space for water and detergent to reach all items.

By following these tips, your dishwasher will be less prone to odd smells and last you long.

Top Replacements for a Smelly Dishwasher

Here are some top-rated appliance replacements you can use if your dishwasher smells bad:

Bosch 300 Series 24” Stainless Steel Front Control Built In Dishwasher

Shop this Bosch Dishwasher

Model #: SHE53B75UC

Bosch dishwashers are perfect for those who like convenience and a quiet home. With its remarkably quiet operation at 46 dBA, you can run this dishwasher at any time of the day without it being a nuisance to your home or those living there.

And, thanks to its other features, like the AquaStop Plus, which detects and stops leaks, the built-in water softener, and the PrecisionWash, which scans your dishes as the cycle runs to ensure optimal cleanliness, this machine can tackle any job, while keeping your kitchen safe from any water damage.

KitchenAid 24” Stainless Steel with Printshield Built In Dishwasher

Shop this KitchenAid Dishwasher

Model #: KDTE204KPS

KitchenAid dishwashers are great at tackling washing jobs with heavy dirt and grime. Using expert cleaning technology, like the triple filtration system, this appliance can remove food particles during the wash and rinse cycles, ensuring only clean water circulates through the wash arms.

Thanks to its adjustable middle rack, this dishwasher also has the flexibility to accommodate larger items, like platters, blenders, and pitchers. Finally, thanks to its smudge-resistant finish and quiet operation, this appliance is great for those who have small children.Like many KitchenAid dishwashers, this one is also ENERGY STAR-certified.

GE 24” Stainless Steel Portable Dishwasher

Shop this GE Dishwasher

Model #: GPT225SSLSS

GE dishwashers come jam-packed with features to ensure your dishes get as clean as possible. For instance, with its autosense cycle, a beam of light can measure the soil levels and water temperature to make the right adjustments for your dishes' needs. Have some trouble with food particles? This appliance comes with a stainless-steel blade that pulverizes food, so it doesn’t get stuck in your drain or clog your spray arms.

Lastly, this appliance has expert sanitizing options, which use a high-temperature rinse to sanitize your dishes and reduce their bacteria by 99.99%. That makes it perfect for dishes that require sanitizing, like baby bottles. Like many GE dishwashers, this one is also ENERGY STAR-certified.

FAQ

How do you get rid of a bad smell in the dishwasher?

To get rid of a bad smell in the dishwasher, first, remove any food debris from the filter and spray arm. Then, place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle to help eliminate odors and disinfect the interior.

How do I get my dishwasher to stop smelling like rotten eggs?

If your dishwasher smells like rotten eggs, it may be due to a buildup of food particles or trapped debris in the filter or drain. Clean the filter and check for any clogs in the drain to resolve the issue.

How often should you clean your dishwasher filter?

It's recommended to clean your dishwasher filter once a month to prevent food residue from accumulating and causing bad smells or affecting the dishwasher's performance. However, the frequency may vary based on usage and the hardness of your water. Regular cleaning ensures your dishwasher operates efficiently and keeps foul odors at bay.

Where to buy a dishwasher near me?

If you live in South Florida, come on over toJohn’s Appliance and Bedding. Our family-owned store sells a wide range ofdishwashersperfect for your kitchen’s design and functionality. We also have the experts to help you find a dishwasher for your home with the right features and tools. Check out one of our locations inSouth Daytona,New Smyrna Beach,Orange City, andPalm Coast.

Why Trust John’s Appliance & Bedding?

Our family-owned and operated store started with a pick-up truck and a dream. When John Hinton Jr. first opened his storefront in 1972, he never envisioned that over the next 50 years, he would outgrow his flagship location and need to open several other locations. However, that’s just what he did.

Thanks to John and his team, John’s Appliance & Bedding has been able to provide our customers with the best appliances, mattresses, and cabinet solutions in South Florida. We view our customers as an extension of our family and seek to provide the best service and expertise that we always have.

Shop Dishwashers at John’s Appliance & Bedding

At , we provide high-quality, name-brand products for the best possible price. Shop dishwashers online or visit one of our four South Florida showrooms and experience world-class customer service. Our friendly product experts are always happy to help you find a dishwasher — whether you call us, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.

Learn more: Our Guide to the GE Profile Dishwasher Line

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