Maintaining your dishwasher is crucial for ensuring spotless dishes while extending the lifespan of your appliance.
However, with challenges such as limescale, food residues, and unpleasant odors, this equipment requires regular care that is often underestimated. You don’t need expensive chemical products; natural and cost-effective solutions are sufficient to keep your machine in top condition.
Regular cleaning of your dishwasher is not just a matter of hygiene. It plays a vital role in the appliance’s proper functioning and the efficiency of the washing cycles. By adopting a few simple and eco-friendly practices, you can avoid common malfunctions while being kind to the environment.
Regular descaling to preserve performance
Limescale, prevalent in areas with hard water, infiltrates every corner of your dishwasher.
With each cycle, it gradually accumulates, reducing the appliance’s efficiency. Regular descaling helps prevent these nuisances and ensures consistently clean dishes.
Natural solutions like white vinegar or citric acid are ideal for this task. They not only eliminate limescale but also protect the appliance’s components. The absence of harsh chemicals is beneficial for both your health and the health of your dishwasher.
White vinegar: an accessible and powerful solution
White vinegar, a true champion of eco-friendly cleaners, effectively tackles limescale while neutralizing odors.
To use it, pour about 250 ml into a heat-resistant container, place it in the upper rack of your empty dishwasher, and then run a high-temperature cycle. This simple step removes stubborn deposits from the walls and internal components.
In addition to its descaling action, white vinegar freshens your machine and eliminates greasy residues. Its low cost and availability make it an indispensable ally to integrate into your maintenance routine at least once a month.
Citric acid: a natural alternative to discover
Citric acid, derived from citrus fruits, is another effective solution for maintaining your appliance.
Biodegradable and non-toxic, it cleans and degreases deeply while protecting sensitive surfaces. It’s also a great option for those seeking an alternative to vinegar.
Dissolve about 7 tablespoons of citric acid in a bowl of warm water. Pour this mixture directly into the bottom of the machine, then run a cycle with no dishes. This method dislodges limescale deposits while leaving a pleasant feeling of cleanliness.
Do not neglect the filters and spray arms
Filters and spray arms are often overlooked, but they play a fundamental role in the dishwasher’s proper functioning.
These elements accumulate food residues and deposits that can eventually obstruct the system. Regular maintenance ensures better water circulation and more efficient cycles.
Remove the filters once a month to clean them under hot water, using a soft brush if necessary. Also, check that the holes in the spray arms are not clogged with residues. This simple step prevents unpleasant surprises and extends the appliance’s lifespan.
Clean joints to avoid leaks and odors
Often ignored, the seals in your dishwasher also require maintenance. They easily accumulate mold and food residues, which can lead to unpleasant odors and, ultimately, sealing issues.
Take the time to wipe the seals with a damp cloth soaked in warm water or white vinegar at least once a week. Regularly inspect them for signs of wear, such as cracks or sagging. This small effort helps prevent leaks and keeps the appliance in good condition.
Simple steps to combat unpleasant odors
Unpleasant odors in a dishwasher are often caused by trapped residues or moisture accumulation.
A natural solution is to sprinkle a small amount of baking soda in the appliance before running an empty cycle. This product, known for its deodorizing properties, cleans your machine effortlessly.
For an extra touch of freshness, add a few drops of citrus essential oil to your baking soda. Not only does this trick eliminate odors, but it also lightly perfumes your appliance, making its use even more pleasant.
