How to Clean a KitchenAid Dishwasher
A KitchenAid dishwasher is a reliable and high-performing kitchen appliance, but like any hardworking machine, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently. Over time, food particles, grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits can build up, leading to odors, clogs, and subpar cleaning performance. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your KitchenAid dishwasher, from the filter to the interior and exterior, while also providing additional tips to maintain its longevity. Whether you’re dealing with a smelly dishwasher or simply want to keep it in top shape, this article has you covered. Let’s dive in!
—
Why Cleaning Your KitchenAid Dishwasher Matters
Your dishwasher cleans your dishes, but it’s not self-cleaning. Food residue and mineral buildup can accumulate over time, affecting its performance and leaving your dishes less than spotless. According to KitchenAid’s official recommendations, cleaning your dishwasher approximately every 30 days is ideal for optimal performance. Regular maintenance prevents clogs, enhances water flow, and ensures your appliance lasts longer. A clean dishwasher also eliminates unpleasant odors and keeps your kitchen hygienic.
Neglecting this task can lead to bigger problems, like a clogged filter or overworked components, which may increase energy consumption or even require costly repairs. By following the steps below, you’ll maintain your KitchenAid dishwasher’s efficiency and enjoy sparkling clean dishes every time.
—
Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these supplies to make the cleaning process smooth and effective:
- White vinegar (2 cups)
- Baking soda (1 cup, optional)
- Mild dish soap
- Soft cloth or microfiber cloth
- Sponge or soft-bristle brush (like an old toothbrush)
- Paper towels
- Dishwasher cleaner tablets (such as affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner, recommended by KitchenAid)
- Warm water
- Optional: Specialty stainless-steel cleaner (for stainless steel models)
With these tools ready, you’re set to tackle every part of your dishwasher.
—
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your KitchenAid Dishwasher
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher and Inspect
Start by removing all dishes, utensils, and racks from your KitchenAid dishwasher. This gives you full access to the interior. Take a moment to inspect the bottom of the dishwasher tub for any visible food scraps or debris. Use a paper towel to pick up loose particles, especially around the drain area. Doing this after every cycle can prevent buildup, but it’s a crucial first step for a deep clean.
As noted by HomeGearGeek, “A clean dishwasher not only ensures your dishes emerge spotless, but it also extends the lifespan of your appliance” [((HomeGearGeek))]. Starting with a clear interior sets the stage for effective cleaning.
—
Step 2: Remove and Clean the Filter
The filter is the heart of your dishwasher’s cleaning system, trapping food particles and debris to prevent them from clogging the pump or redepositing onto your dishes. KitchenAid dishwashers typically have a filter located at the bottom of the tub, often under the bottom rack.
Here’s how to clean it, adapted from Sears Home Services’ comprehensive guide:
1. Open the dishwasher door and remove the bottom dishrack.
2. Locate the filter assembly (usually a coarse filter at the bottom of the sump).
3. Twist the upper filter counterclockwise to unlock it and lift it out. For the lower filter, lift slightly and pull forward.
4. Rinse both parts under warm running water to remove loose debris.
5. For stubborn grease or residue, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush.
6. Reinstall the filter by aligning the lower filter first, then placing the upper filter back and twisting clockwise until it locks securely [((Sears Home Services))].
Some KitchenAid models feature a maintenance-free filter system with a debris cup instead. If yours has this, simply empty the cup when it fills up—no scrubbing required.
Clean the filter at least once a month, or more often if you notice reduced performance or clogs.
—
Step 3: Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms distribute water to clean your dishes, but they can get clogged with food particles or mineral deposits, especially in hard water areas. To ensure they work properly:
1. Remove the upper and lower spray arms (consult your KitchenAid manual for model-specific instructions—typically, they twist off or are held by a clip).
2. Check the holes for blockages. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear out debris.
3. Rinse the arms under warm water.
4. Reattach them securely.
KitchenAid advises inspecting the spray arms if your dishwasher isn’t cleaning effectively. Clogs here are a common culprit for poor performance.
—
Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior
Grime like grease, limescale, and soap scum can build up on the dishwasher’s interior walls, door, and gasket. To clean these areas:
1. Dampen a sponge or microfiber cloth with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Wipe down the interior walls, paying special attention to corners and crevices where buildup hides.
3. Clean around the door gasket (the rubber seal) carefully—it’s a hotspot for mold and mildew. Use a soft brush if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the rubber.
Cody’s Appliance Repair emphasizes, “Foul odors and other issues can develop without regular cleaning,” highlighting the importance of this step [((Cody’s Appliance Repair))].
—
Step 5: Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar or Tablets
For a deep clean that tackles hard-to-reach areas and lingering odors, run an empty cycle with a cleaning agent. You have two reliable options:
Option 1: White Vinegar
- Place 2 cups of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe glass or measuring cup on the bottom rack.
- Run a full cycle on the hottest setting with an air-dry or energy-saving dry option (no detergent).
- KitchenAid notes, “Vinegar will mix with the wash water” to break down deposits, but warns that overuse (being acidic) could harm the dishwasher over time [((KitchenAid))].
Option 2: Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets
- Place one affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner tablet (or a compatible alternative) in the detergent dispenser.
- Run a normal cycle. These tablets are formulated to remove limescale, mineral deposits, and odors without the risk of vinegar’s acidity.
SmartHomeBit suggests, “Cleaning tablets can be an effective solution for those tough-to-reach areas,” making them a convenient choice [((SmartHomeBit))].
—
Step 6: Clean the Exterior
Don’t neglect the outside of your dishwasher—it’s part of your kitchen’s aesthetic. Here’s how:
1. Use a soft cloth dampened with water and mild dish soap to wipe the control panel and door. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
2. For stainless steel models, use a specialty stainless-steel cleaner for a streak-free shine.
3. Dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
This step keeps your KitchenAid dishwasher looking as good as it performs.
—
Additional Maintenance Tips
To keep your dishwasher in peak condition beyond regular cleaning:
- Scrape Dishes Before Loading: Remove large food scraps to reduce filter buildup.
- Use Rinse Aid: Refill the rinse aid dispenser monthly (unless you have treated hard water). It helps dishes dry better and reduces internal particle buildup.
- Run Hot Water First: Before starting a cycle, run hot water from your sink tap to ensure the dishwasher begins with hot water for optimal cleaning.
- Check for Hard Water: If you live in a hard water area, consider a dishwasher water softener to prevent mineral deposits. Sears Home Services warns that “calcium and magnesium can accumulate on interior surfaces,” affecting performance [((Sears Home Services))].
- Inspect Regularly: Look for signs of clogs or leaks, like standing water over an inch deep, and address them promptly.
—
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If cleaning doesn’t solve all problems, here are quick fixes for common dishwasher woes:
- Not Draining: Check the drain hose or filter for clogs. Use a plunger or call a professional if needed.
- Dishes Not Drying: Ensure the heating element works (test with a multimeter) and refill rinse aid.
- Unusual Noises: Debris in the pump or spray arms hitting dishes could be the cause. Inspect and adjust loading.
For persistent issues, consult your KitchenAid manual or contact a professional repair service.
—
FAQ: Common Questions About Cleaning a KitchenAid Dishwasher
Q: How often should I clean my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: Clean it every 30 days for optimal performance, or more often if you notice odors or reduced cleaning efficiency.
Q: Can I use vinegar and baking soda together?
A: No, they neutralize each other’s effects. Use one at a time—vinegar for a deep cleanse, baking soda for a quick deodorizing cycle.
Q: What if my filter doesn’t match the manual’s diagram?
A: Some models vary. Check your specific model number on KitchenAid’s website or contact support for tailored instructions.
Q: Are cleaning tablets better than vinegar?
A: Tablets like affresh® are designed for dishwashers and target tough buildup without risking damage, unlike vinegar, which should be used sparingly.
Q: Why does my dishwasher still smell after cleaning?
A: Check for standing water or a clogged drain. Persistent odors may require professional attention.
Q: How do I know if my dishwasher has a maintenance-free filter?
A: Look for a debris cup instead of a removable filter. Refer to your manual or KitchenAid’s product page for confirmation.
—
By following this detailed guide, your KitchenAid dishwasher will stay clean, efficient, and odor-free, ensuring your dishes come out spotless every time. Regular care not only enhances performance but also extends the life of this essential kitchen appliance. Happy cleaning!