How to Freshen a Dishwasher

Foul odors develop inside the dishwasher over time due to food residue that hides in the cracks and crevices inside the appliance. Failure to run the dishwasher when it contains a load of dirty dishes can also cause odors to form. Dishwasher detergents do not always break down the food and bacteria in the appliance. When your dishwasher smells, you can freshen it with items in your home. Dishwashers need to be cleaned monthly to keep them odor-free and in good condition.

Paper towels
Chlorine bleach
Liquid dish detergent
Sponge
Baking soda
Shallow bowl
Washcloth

Instructions

- 1
  Wipe away any food debris and gunk inside the dishwasher with paper towels.
- 2
  Disinfect the inside of the dishwasher with 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach, 2 tablespoons liquid dish detergent and 1 quart of water. Soak a sponge in the solution and wipe down all areas of the dishwasher such as the walls, shelves, gaskets and door.
- 3
  Pour 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach into the bottom of the dishwasher. Run the empty dishwasher through a complete cycle to destroy any odor-causing bacteria.
- 4
  Pour baking soda into a shallow bowl. Place the baking soda on a shelf inside the appliance. Allow the baking soda to absorb the odors overnight.
- 5
  Create a baking soda paste to remove any lingering odors by combining 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of water. Apply the paste inside the dishwasher with a washcloth, and then rinse it off with clean water.

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