It’s not something that we often remember to do, but cleaning the dishwasher is an important task. What can you do to eliminate dishwasher odours? These Bosch dishwasher cleaning tips cover how to clean your dishwasher from the tub up to the spray arms to eliminate unpleasant odours.
Bosch Dishwasher Cleaner 101: Eliminating and Preventing Odour
Bosch dishwasher cleaning tips target the source of odours with basic household items and cleaning techniques. We will also discuss how regular maintenance is key to preventing unpleasant odours.
Clean the Dishwasher Filter
Dishwasher filters filter out food particles which could block the dishwasher drain. As they decompose, food particles build up in the filter.
How to clean a Bosch dishwasher filter:
- The dishwasher’s lower rack should be removed and the spray arm should be removed.
- Twist the filter cap to release the mesh screen.
- Rinse the filter with warm water.
- Place the filter in the dishwasher. Turn the filter cap in an opposite direction to lock it in place.
- Replace the spray arms and lower rack.
Dishwasher Tub Cleaning
The dishwasher tub is an environment where bacteria can thrive on food leftovers.
How to clean a Bosch dishwasher bathtub and eliminate odours with simple household ingredients:
- White vinegar: Add 1 cup white vinegar to the dishwasher’s base, and then run a thorough clean cycle.
- Baking soda: After running an acid cycle, place 1 cup of baking powder in the dishwasher’s bottom and let it sit for at least one night. Then run a clean, regular cycle.
- Bleach: Pour 1 cup of bleach into the dishwasher’s bottom and run the 3rd cycle. This step can be skipped if the dishwasher has an interior made of stainless steel. Bleach can stain stainless steel.
Tips for cleaning dishwasher spray arms
Sometimes food particles build up in the small holes of dishwasher spray arms, which prevent water from spraying outwards and leaves dishes dirty. Even though proper dishwasher loading practices can prevent blockages, mould, mildew, and other contaminants can accumulate on the spray arm, creating a persistent odour. To address spray arms, follow these steps:
- The dishwasher’s lower racks should be removed.
- To remove the spray arm from the lower part, lift up on it up and turn the knob at the top.
- To clean out the arm holes, use a toothpick.
- Each arm should be rinsed under warm water.
- Use a dry cloth.
- Assemble the spray arms.
Check and clean the drain line
If your Bosch dishwasher smells persistent after you have completed the above steps, then it may be due to a clogged drainage line.
Here are the steps to clear the blockage and inspect the drain line:
- You can disconnect the drain tube from the garbage disposal with a screwdriver.
- Run a dishwasher cycle to clear the blockage and hold the hose above a bucket or sink. If the hose isn’t draining, it could be a blockage.
- You can use a straightened hanging rod or a plumbing snake to remove the clog.
- If the hose is not draining, it’s likely that the clog is in the drain pipe behind the dishwasher. We recommend that you hire a professional to help remove the clog.
Tips to Avoid Dishwasher Odours
To prevent recurring odours, regular maintenance can also include the use of our Bosch dishwasher cleaning tips. These are some tips to help you avoid unpleasant odours.
- Clean your dishwasher filter once a month.
- After each use, perform dishwasher tub cleanings once a month.
- Bosch recommends using FINISH detergent to reduce odours. Excessive soap residue can lead to smelly bacteria. Follow the instructions on your detergent packaging and use as little as possible.
If you still have a persistent odour after a Bosch dishwasher cleaning, it is time to contact a dishwasher repair service.
