Dishwashers are one of our greatest allies in the kitchen, and its cleanliness is vital to the cleanliness of our dishes! The dishes can’t be clean if the machine washing them is smelly and full of detergent and food build-up! Regularly cleaning your dishwasher is one of the easiest ways to prevent a smelly, mouldy dishwasher and to keep your dishes sparkling clean every time.
Why cleaning your dishwasher is important
Cleaning your dishwasher is essential for its efficiency and hygiene. Food particles, grease, and soap scum can accumulate in the filter, spray arms, and drain, leading to clogs. These clogs reduce the efficiency of water circulation, affecting the dishwasher’s ability to clean dishes properly. Clogs and build-up can also create more wear and tear on the dishwasher, leading to malfunction. Cleaning your dishwasher can actually extend its life.
A clean dishwasher is also essential for a hygienic kitchen environment. Food and soap build-up are the perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria, which can cause unsightly stains and smells in your dishwasher. Mould and bacteria can be transferred onto your plates and kitchenware, leaving you with dirty dishes. Keeping your dishwasher clean ensures that your dishes will be cleaned and sanitised after every wash cycle. Here are a few quick and easy methods to clean your dishwasher.
Remove and clean the filter
One of the first steps to a sparkling and odour-free dishwasher is to clean the filter. The filter on most dishwashers is located at the bottom. Twist it out and take it apart if it has multiple parts. Rinse the filter under warm water and gently clean the holes by scrubbing with a soft brush or sponge.
Check and clean the spray arms
Remove the spray arms either by unscrewing them or gently snapping them out. Check the holes of the spray arms to make sure there are no clogs or debris. Gently scrub them with soap and a soft brush, and rinse them with warm water.
How to use specialised dishwasher cleaners
One of the best ways to clean your dishwasher is by using a specialised dishwasher cleaner like the 3 in1 Descaler, Degreaser and Cleaner by Care+Protect. The 3 in 1 Cleaner removes limescale deposits and eliminates odours, bacteria and grease, extending the life of your dishwasher and reducing its energy consumption. Simply place the contents of the sachet in the detergent compartment of your dishwasher and run a hot water wash cycle (60°C or hotter). Your dishwasher will be sparkling clean, limescale free and as efficient as ever!
How to use vinegar to clean your dishwasher
Another simple way to clean your dishwasher is with vinegar. Vinegar is a powerful cleaning agent that can cut through accumulated grease, buildup, and grime. The acidity of vinegar allows it to break down grease, food particles, and mineral deposits. It also acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria and mildew. Although a great cleaning agent, it is important to use vinegar with caution. Its high acidity can damage rubber gaskets when used incorrectly.
To use vinegar in your dishwasher:
- Empty the dishwasher completely. Make sure there are no dishes or utensils.
- Fill a dishwasher-safe container with distilled white vinegar and place it on the bottom rack of the dishwasher.
- Run a wash cycle on the hottest water setting. The hot water will help break down any residue.
- When the wash cycle has finished, use a soft microfibre cloth to scrub any stubborn spots.
Hoover tip: The 3 in 1 Cleaner has 3.5 X STRONGER LIMESCALE REMOVING ACTION than vinegar and other household cleaners. To boost long-lasting performance with the right maintenance, be sure to use the 3 in 1 cleaner.
How Often Should I Clean My Dishwasher?
The key to a sparkling and hygienic dishwasher is to maintain it regularly. The more you maintain your dishwasher, the less wear and tear you will notice on your appliance. Here are some recommendations for different parts of your dishwasher:
Filters
Filters should be emptied and cleaned at least once a month. Emptying and cleaning the filter prevents clogs, which can lead to food and detergent buildup, mould and mildew.
Inside of the dishwasher
Use dishwasher cleaners or a vinegar rinse at least once a month. Using a cleaner or vinegar once a month eliminates mineral buildup and grime and sanitises the inside of your dishwasher.
Seals and gaskets
Clean or wipe rubber seals and gaskets weekly. Clean your dishwasher’s rubber seals and gaskets weekly with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. Do not use pure vinegar on the rubber parts of your dishwasher or any appliance. Weekly cleaning for these parts is best as it prevents mould and bacteria growth. The Natural Drying feature on Hoover dishwashers automatically opens the door after the cycle finishes to aid drying. This also allows airflow to dry the rubber gaskets and seals, preventing the formation of mould and mildew.
Hoover tip: Run hot water cycles regularly. Using hot water cycles on your dishwasher will regularly sanitise it, prevent buildup, and keep your dishwasher clean. Cleaning your dishwasher is even easier with Hoover dishwashers featuring the Hygiene Protection System. The Hygiene Protection System uses high-temperature water on baskets and other areas prone to buildup and bacteria, eliminating up to 99.9% of bacteria, mould, and viruses. You can rest easy knowing that both your dishes and your dishwasher are always sanitised. What’s not to love?
Conclusion
Keeping a clean dishwasher is crucial for both the longevity of the appliance and the cleanliness of your dishes. By regularly cleaning the filter, spray arms, and using specialised cleaners like the 3 in 1 Cleaner, you ensure that your dishwasher operates efficiently and hygienically. Hoover’s modern dishwasher features further enhance sanitation and make your life easier. With these easy and effective methods, keeping your dishwasher in top shape becomes a simple and rewarding task.
