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How often should you deep clean your dishwasher?

Mock recommends cleaning your dishwasher once a month to keep it in tip-top condition.

A woman emptying a dishwasher filled with colorful plates

From cleaning the filter, to cleaning the drain, heres how to do it.

Cleaning the filter

1.

Grab a soft brush and dislodge any remaining food debris.

An open dishwasher

Finally, thoroughly rinse the filter and reinstall it back into your dishwasher.

Cleaning the gasket

1.

Mock says to start by inspecting the rubber gasket around the dishwasher for any dirt or grime build-up.

Empty Dishwasher

Youll probably be surprised at what you find.

Wipe around the area with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and mild dish soap.

Pay special attention to the folds and crevices where debris may accumulate, says Mock.

Hand holding dirty dishwasher filter by open dishwasher

Rinse the gasket with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a towel.

Cleaning the racks

1.

Mock says to remove the racks from the dishwasher and inspect them for any food particles or stains.

Woman inspecting gasket on dishwasher

Take a sponge or soft brush soaked in warm, soapy water and give the racks a wipe.

Then create a paste using baking soda and water for stubborn stains.

Apply the paste to the stains and leave it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.

Open dishwasher showing lower rack pulled out

Finish by rinsing the racks in water and reinstalling them back into the dishwasher.

Cleaning the spray arms

1.

Remove the sprayer arms from the dishwasher and inspect them for any clogs or debris.

Man removing dishwasher spray arm

Mock suggests taking a toothpick or small brush to dislodge any food particles stuck in the spray holes.

Finish by rinsing the sprayer arms with clean water and reinstalling them into the dishwasher.

For stubborn stains or grease, Mock recommends using a paste made of baking soda and water.

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Apply it to the affected areas, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.

To complete the clean, rinse the door with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a towel.

Cleaning the drain

1.

A woman cleaning a dishwasher with a cloth

Begin by removing the bottom rack and checking the drain area for any food particles or debris.

Take a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any visible debris.

The solution should be left to sit for about 15-20 minutes before flushing the drain with hot water.

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Reinstall the bottom rack once the drain is clean.

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