We Tested 7 Methods to Clean a Dishwasher, and the Winner Doesn’t Even Feel Like a Chore
The Story Behind This Recipe
I’m Alexandraa, the cook behind this 7 Easy Ways to Clean a Dishwasher (One Method Feels Like a Breeze!). On a rainy weekend, I dialed in the flavors so it’s weeknight-friendly and full of cozy vibes. We Tested 7 Methods to Clean a Dishwasher, and the Winner Doesn’t Even Feel Like a Chore So, here’s the thing—have you ever opened your dishwasher…
So, here’s the thing—have you ever opened your dishwasher expecting fresh, clean-smelling bowls but got that, let’s say, funky punch in the face instead? I used to just slam the door shut and walk away. But grime = not today. The good news? I rolled up my sleeves and tried seven ways to clean that stubborn gunk. Spoiler: one of these methods is just. unbelievably. easy. Like, easier than cleaning stained coffee pots. If you liked hunting for hacks like getting a greasy air fryer basket sparkling, keep reading—this one’s for you. 
Whats the Best Way to Clean a Dishwasher?
Okay, straight talk: there’s no one magical cleaner hiding in your cupboard. But after testing (aka battling stubborn smells for… far too long), here’s what really works:
- White vinegar rinse: Crazy simple, solid results. Just pop a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run it hot.
- Baking soda sprinkle: Toss a handful—hello, fresh.
- Bleach (but only if you’re desperate!): Use if you’ve got mildew and no stainless steel parts (don’t wreck your machine).
- Store-bought cleaners: Some are good, some are meh—read reviews.
- Lemon juice magic: Leaves a fresh scent, but won’t kill mold.
- Remove and wash the filter: (Duh, but often skipped. GUILTY.)
- Wipe with hot soapy water: Old school, but surprisingly satisfying.
It’s a bit like figuring out how to clean hardwood floors—you’ve got choices, but some just fit the job better.
How We Tested the Methods to Clean the Dishwasher
Okay, so I went Full Scientist here (or… as much as you can in pajamas). Here’s what went down:
- I ran each method on the same stinky, crumb-littered dishwasher.
- Let each method work alone—no combining, no cheating!
- Checked for smell, gunk removal, and time spent (because—life).
- Even had my spouse sniff-test with me, and wow, the facial expressions!
“I never thought something so gross could be fixed that easily. You changed my dishwasher game!” – R.K., dishwasher skeptic
The Ratings
Let me tell you, not all methods were created equal. Some were… barely moving the needle. The clear stars:
- Vinegar rinse: Five gold stars (but not in a Michelin sense, ha!).
- Baking soda: Tied for scent-freshening—left things pretty spotless.
- Manual filter cleaning: Boring but crucial; literally gets out hidden gunk.
- Bleach: Gets the job done in tornado-level cases (use gloves, please).
Honestly? Lemon juice and the store-bought cleaner got a “meh” from me—and I love lemons!
Important Notes on the 2 Winning Methods
So here’s my totally unsolicited but oddly strong opinion:
- Vinegar is the GOAT: Effort = almost none. Toss in a cup, hit “Start,” walk away. Just like learning 7 easy tricks to remove sticky stickers.
- Baking soda can come right after—a quick sprinkle on the bottom, short hot cycle. You literally do nothing while it works (love that for me).
- Pro tip? Do this duo every month. Your dishwasher will keep smelling like absolutely nothing (the best scent).
- Don’t mix vinegar and bleach—unless, you know, you want a new kitchen wall color.
Honestly, I stopped hating dishwasher days. It’s no longer The Dreaded Chore.
Comparison of Different Cleaning Methods
Some rapid-fire real talk for you:
- Vinegar vs. baking soda: Use both—vinegar for gunk, baking soda for deodorizing.
- Bleach: Harsh, only needed if you’re fighting mold or major stains (stainless interiors = NO bleach!).
- Lemon juice: Smells nice, works okay…eh, I’ll take vinegar.
- Filter cleaning: Not optional if you want that five-star restaurant sparkle.
- Store cleaners: Mostly convenience, but often pricier for same result.
I’d say: mix and match, but start simple—save bleach in case disaster strikes.
Common Questions
Q: How often should I really clean my dishwasher?
A: Real talk—do a deep clean (vinegar + filter) every month. Quick wipe-downs in between if you’re feeling ambitious.
Q: Can I just use lemon or some random cleaner?
A: If you’re only chasing a nice smell, sure. But gunk? Vinegar & baking soda work better.
Q: Why not bleach if the smell is awful?
A: Only use bleach if it’s really, really bad (mold, major mildew). And test if you have a stainless interior—bleach will wreck it.
Q: Do store-bought dishwasher cleaners really work?
A: Some do. Some are meh (or just overpriced). I still love vinegar for most things.
Q: Do I have to dismantle the filter every time?
A: Not every run, but do it monthly. Otherwise you’ll wonder why your “clean” plates still feel kinda…gross.
The Easiest Method Totally Changed My Dishwasher Routine
See? Cleaning your dishwasher isn’t an Olympic sport. Go with the winning pair—vinegar and baking soda—honestly, it’s like magic with nearly zero effort. You can check other methods tested from places like The Very Best Way to Clean a Dishwasher (We Tested 5 Methods …) for backup. Even if cleaning appliances drives you up a wall (or your partner does, Does Your Partner Drive You Nuts? The Passive Aggressive …), this one’s easy. Give it a try—your future self (and your nose!) will thank you.
