### How to Use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner: Best Practices for Deep Cleaning
Maintaining a clean dishwasher is essential for ensuring your dishes come out sparkling and odor-free. Over time, soap scum, grease, food debris, and mineral buildup can accumulate inside your dishwasher, impacting its performance. Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, a product recommended by top brands like Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag, offers a simple and effective solution for deep cleaning. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, share best practices for optimal results, and provide additional tips to keep your dishwasher in top shape.
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#### What is Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is a specialized tablet designed to clean the hidden parts of your dishwasher—such as the tub, racks, pump, valves, drain, and recirculation hoses—while also descaling dishes and glassware. Unlike your regular dishwasher detergent, which focuses on cleaning dishes, Affresh targets limescale and mineral buildup that can affect both the machine’s performance and the appearance of your dishes. It’s formulated with EPA Safer Choice-certified ingredients, making it safe for septic systems and compatible with all dishwasher makes and models.
As noted by Whirlpool, “Affresh® dishwasher cleaner is specially formulated to help remove limescale and mineral build-up that can be unsightly and could affect your dishwasher’s performance” [(( Whirlpool ))]. This makes it an ideal choice for a thorough, hassle-free clean.
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#### Step-by-Step Guide to Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
Using Affresh is straightforward, but following the correct steps ensures maximum effectiveness. Here’s how to do it:
1. **Decide Whether to Run a Load or Clean Empty**
You can use Affresh with a load of dishes or in an empty dishwasher. Running it with dishes allows the cleaner to descale glassware and dishes while simultaneously cleaning the machine. If your dishwasher has significant buildup, running it empty might be more effective.
2. **Prepare the Tablet Placement**
– **With Dishes:** Place one Affresh tablet at the bottom of the dishwasher (under the bottom rack). Fill the detergent dispenser with your usual dishwasher detergent as you would for a normal load.
– **Empty Dishwasher:** Place one tablet in the detergent dispenser. If there’s heavy buildup, consider using two tablets—one in the dispenser and one at the bottom.
Affresh’s official site advises, “If cleaning with dishes, place 1 tablet at the bottom of your dishwasher. Detergent should be placed in the main detergent tray” [(( Affresh ))].
3. **Run a Normal Cycle**
Select a normal wash cycle with hot water (typically around 120°F, the temperature at which water enters most dishwashers). Avoid interrupting the cycle to allow the tablet to dissolve fully and clean all components. For heavily soiled machines, you might need to run an extra cycle.
4. **Wipe Down After the Cycle (Optional)**
Once the cycle completes, check for any remaining residue and wipe the interior with a damp cloth if needed. This step is especially useful for stainless steel dishwashers to maintain their shine.
The process takes just a few minutes of prep and one dishwasher cycle, making it a convenient way to tackle deep cleaning without scrubbing.
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#### Best Practices for Optimal Results
To get the most out of Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, consider these expert-recommended best practices:
– **Use Monthly for Maintenance**
Affresh recommends using the cleaner monthly or as needed to prevent buildup. “Use affresh® dishwasher cleaner monthly for best results,” says their site, noting that heavily soiled machines may require additional cycles [(( Affresh ))]. Regular use keeps odors at bay and maintains machine efficiency.
– **Pair with Hot Water**
The tablets are designed to work with hot water, which enhances their ability to break down limescale and grease. Run your kitchen sink faucet until the water is hot before starting the dishwasher to ensure optimal conditions.
– **Check Your Filter**
Before using Affresh, remove and clean the dishwasher filter (if removable) to clear food bits or debris. Whirlpool suggests, “Clear the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher of any food bits or debris like glass, popcorn kernels or small pieces of paper” [(( Whirlpool ))]. A clean filter improves water flow and cleaning performance.
– **Don’t Overfill the Dishwasher**
If running a load with Affresh, avoid overcrowding. The spray arms need space to reach all surfaces, ensuring both the dishes and the machine get cleaned effectively.
– **Address Heavy Buildup**
For dishwashers with noticeable limescale or odors, use two tablets—one in the dispenser and one at the bottom—and run an empty cycle. This double-dose approach tackles stubborn residue.
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#### Additional Tips for Dishwasher Care
Beyond using Affresh, incorporating these habits can extend your dishwasher’s lifespan and keep it running smoothly:
– **Run the Garbage Disposal First**
If your dishwasher shares a drain with a garbage disposal, run the disposal beforehand. Affresh notes, “If you have a garbage disposal, run it before you run your dishwasher. Both appliances use the same drain, so you want to be sure it’s clear” [(( Affresh ))]. This prevents backups and water pooling.
– **Clean the Exterior**
Wipe down the dishwasher’s exterior with a damp cloth or use a stainless steel cleaner like Affresh Stainless Steel Cleaning Spray for a polished finish. This keeps it looking as good as it performs.
– **Use Rinse Aid**
Pairing Affresh with a rinse aid can enhance drying and reduce water spots on dishes, complementing the descaling effects of the cleaner.
– **Monitor Water Hardness**
If you live in a hard water area, mineral buildup may occur more quickly. You might need to use Affresh more frequently or add a water softener to your routine.
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#### Benefits of Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
Why choose Affresh over other cleaning methods? Here are some key advantages based on user and expert insights:
– **Convenience:** No scrubbing or manual cleaning required—just drop in a tablet and run a cycle.
– **Versatility:** Safe for all dishwasher brands and models, including stainless steel interiors.
– **Dual Action:** Cleans the machine while descaling dishes, saving time and effort.
– **Eco-Friendly:** Made with EPA Safer Choice-certified ingredients, it’s gentler on the environment than some chemical alternatives.
A reviewer on Whirlpool’s site raved, “My husband and I just moved into an apartment that’s dishwasher was absolutely disgusting due to the water here. After using Affresh, it’s like new!” This highlights its effectiveness even in challenging conditions.
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#### Alternatives to Affresh
While Affresh is highly effective, you can also clean your dishwasher with household items if you’re in a pinch. Whirlpool suggests a vinegar and baking soda method: “Deep clean using the baking soda and vinegar method or use a dishwasher cleaner” [(( Whirlpool ))]. Place a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle, followed by sprinkling baking soda on the bottom and running another cycle. However, Affresh offers a more targeted, hassle-free solution compared to this multi-step process.
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#### FAQ: Common Questions About Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
**Q: How often should I use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?**
A: For best results, use it monthly or every 30 days, depending on usage and water hardness. Heavily soiled machines may need more frequent cleaning.
**Q: Can I use Affresh with a full load of dishes?**
A: Yes! Place the tablet at the bottom of the dishwasher and add detergent to the dispenser. It cleans the machine while descaling your dishes.
**Q: Is Affresh safe for septic systems?**
A: Yes, it’s septic-tank safe and made with EPA Safer Choice-certified ingredients.
**Q: What if my dishwasher still smells after using Affresh?**
A: Check the filter for trapped debris and run a second cycle with two tablets. Persistent odors might indicate a clog or drainage issue needing professional attention.
**Q: Can I use Affresh in non-Whirlpool dishwashers?**
A: Absolutely—it’s compatible with all makes and models, as confirmed by Affresh: “Affresh® dishwasher cleaner works in any make or model dishwasher” [(( Affresh ))].
**Q: Does Affresh replace regular detergent?**
A: No, Affresh cleans the dishwasher itself, while detergent cleans your dishes. Use both together for a full load.
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By following this guide, you can keep your dishwasher performing at its best with Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner. Regular maintenance, paired with these best practices, ensures clean dishes, a fresh-smelling machine, and a longer lifespan for your appliance. Ready to give it a try? Grab a pack of Affresh tablets and make deep cleaning a breeze!