How to Clean a Dishwasher

Ever wondered if your dishwasher needs cleaning? Chances are it does! If you’re finding your dishwasher just isn’t cleaning as well as it used to, noticing residue after running a cycle, or smelling a lack of freshness, it’s time to take action. Most of us would never think that a machine that cleans needs cleaning, but any appliance can benefit from some TLC. Read on to find out the best way to clean a dishwasher so your dishes will come out sparkling again.

Finish Dishwasher Cleaner

Pure White Vinegar

Spontex Washups Sponge Scourers

Finish Dishwasher Rinse Aid

Finish Dishwasher Salt

Finish Dishwasher Deodoriser

First thing’s first! Gather your cleaning supplies - listed under our recommended toolkit - and empty your dishwasher so there’s nothing left in it.

Take out all of the filter parts and wash them with hot soapy water to clean away any excess food residue and grease, then place them back into the dishwasher.

Next, use a dishwasher cleaner like the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner. Peel off the sticker to expose the wax plug instead of removing the cap, and place the bottle of Finish upside down anywhere in the bottom rack. 

Close the dishwasher and run an empty load on a hot wash of 60 degrees or higher.

Once the wash has ended, remove the bottle of Finish from the dishwasher and recycle it.

To clean the sides and seals of the dishwasher use Pure White Vinegar spray to prevent rust and achieve a sparkling clean while staying eco-friendly. 

If the outside of your dishwasher is looking a bit lacklustre a cloth and a bit of hot soapy water will have it looking shiny and new in minutes.

Watch our video below for the full step-by-step process:

Let’s face it: we are all looking for ways to make cleaning around the home faster and easier. So take advantage of these preventative measures to make your next clean that much easier.

1) Top up your dishwasher salt every 3 months.

2) Use a product like Finish Rinse Aid to add extra sparkle and shine to your dishes.

3) Use a dishwasher deodoriser to add a fresh citrus scent to your dishwasher.

Last but not least, make sure you’re always scraping off large bits of food before putting your dishes in the dishwasher. This will also eliminate any water waste from rinsing off your plate!

Knowing how and when to clean your dishwasher (every 3 months!) will help you maintain one of your most useful kitchen appliances for years to come. By keeping your machine working at its best, you’ll keep your dishes looking their best - it’s a win-win!