Discover Easy Tips for How to Clean Dishwasher Exterior: A Step-by-Step Guide
What To Know
- You can use a mild dish soap, a dedicated appliance cleaner, or a DIY solution made with baking soda and vinegar.
- Use a toothbrush to clean the grooves around the seal and the area where the door meets the dishwasher.
- If your dishwasher has a bad smell, you can try running a cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner.
Your dishwasher works tirelessly behind the scenes, cleaning your dishes and keeping your kitchen tidy. But like any appliance, it needs a little love and attention to keep it running smoothly. While you might regularly clean the inside of your dishwasher, the exterior often gets neglected. A dirty dishwasher exterior can harbor bacteria and make your kitchen look cluttered.
This blog post will guide you through the essential steps on how to clean dishwasher exterior, leaving it sparkling clean and looking its best.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary supplies. You’ll need:
- Microfiber cloths: These are soft and absorbent, perfect for wiping down surfaces without scratching.
- A cleaning solution: You can use a mild dish soap, a dedicated appliance cleaner, or a DIY solution made with baking soda and vinegar.
- Warm water: Use warm water to loosen dirt and grime.
- A toothbrush: This is useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like the buttons and crevices.
- A sponge: A sponge can be used for scrubbing tougher stains.
Unplug the Dishwasher
Before you start cleaning, always unplug the dishwasher to avoid any electrical hazards.
Clean the Exterior
Start by wiping down the exterior of the dishwasher with a damp microfiber cloth. Pay attention to the areas around the door, the handle, and the buttons.
Tackle Stubborn Stains
If you have stubborn stains, you can use a cleaning solution. For mild stains, a mixture of warm water and dish soap will suffice. For tougher stains, you can try a dedicated appliance cleaner or a DIY solution made with baking soda and vinegar.
To use baking soda and vinegar, sprinkle baking soda on the stain and then spray it with vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a sponge.
Clean the Door and Seal
The door and seal of your dishwasher can collect food particles and grime. Use a toothbrush to clean the grooves around the seal and the area where the door meets the dishwasher.
Clean the Control Panel
The control panel of your dishwasher can accumulate fingerprints and smudges. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the buttons and the display screen.
Don’t Forget the Feet
The feet of your dishwasher can also collect dirt and grime. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the feet and the area underneath the dishwasher.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve cleaned the entire exterior, rinse the dishwasher with clean water and dry it with a microfiber cloth.
Maintaining a Sparkling Clean Dishwasher
To keep your dishwasher clean, it’s important to maintain a regular cleaning routine. Here are a few tips:
- Wipe down the exterior after each use: This will prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Clean the interior regularly: Run a cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner every few months to remove any food particles and bacteria.
- Check the filters: Clean the filters in your dishwasher regularly to prevent clogs.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Dishwasher Looking Great
Cleanliness is key to a well-functioning dishwasher. By following these steps, you can ensure that your dishwasher is not only clean but also looks its best. Remember, a sparkling clean dishwasher can add a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
What People Want to Know
Q: How often should I clean the exterior of my dishwasher?
A: You should clean the exterior of your dishwasher at least once a month, or more often if it gets dirty quickly.
Q: What if I have a stainless steel dishwasher?
A: For stainless steel dishwashers, use a cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the surface.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
A: Bleach is not recommended for cleaning your dishwasher. It can damage the rubber seals and other components.
Q: What should I do if my dishwasher has a bad smell?
A: If your dishwasher has a bad smell, you can try running a cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner. You can also try leaving the door open for a few hours to air out the appliance.
Q: Is it safe to use a steam cleaner on my dishwasher exterior?
A: Using a steam cleaner on your dishwasher exterior is generally safe, but it’s important to check your manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid using steam cleaners on the control panel or any electrical components.
