As we head into the busy holiday season, your dishwasher will likely get a lot more use. A few proactive maintenance steps now can save headaches later and keep your dishes sparkling.
1. Clean / Replace the Filter: A clogged filter can make your dishwasher less efficient and even leave food bits stuck to your dishes. To avoid buildup, remove and rinse the filter at least once a month. You’ll usually find it at the bottom of the dishwasher. Give it a good rinse under running water; soak it in warm, soapy water if needed; and scrub away any stuck-on grime with a soft brush. Once it’s clean, pop it back in place.
2. Refill the Rinse Aid / Drying Solution: Rinse aid is the secret to sparkling, spot-free dishes. It helps glassware dry faster and keeps water spots at bay, so it’s worth checking the level regularly and refilling when needed. Some dishwashers allow adjustments in how much is dispensed each cycle—if you notice spots or poor drying, try bumping it up for better results.
3. Inspect the Spray Arms: Your dishwasher’s spray arms do the heavy lifting, so it’s important to make sure they’re working properly. Check the holes in the arms regularly to be sure they aren’t clogged with food particles or mineral buildup. If you notice any blockages, rinse the arms under running water or use a toothpick to gently clear the holes. Keeping the spray arms clean ensures water can flow freely and your dishes come out sparkling.
4. Don’t Overload: Don’t overload your dishwasher—especially during the holidays when it’s tempting to fit in every last dish. An overcrowded dishwasher blocks water and detergent from reaching everything, which can leave you with cloudy glasses or food residue. It’s better to run two lighter cycles than one crammed-full load if you want truly clean, shiny dishes.
5. Check Seals & Gaskets: Check your dishwasher’s seals and gaskets to keep it running smoothly and prevent messy leaks. A quick wipe with a damp cloth around the rubber seals helps clear away grime and buildup that can stop the door from sealing properly.
6.Remove Odors: No one wants a stinky dishwasher! To keep odors away, wipe down the door edges and run an empty cycle with vinegar every few months to loosen grime. Baking soda is a quick fix for deodorizing, while a dishwasher cleaner offers a deeper refresh.
By keeping up with these small steps, your dishwasher will perform better, last longer, and make your kitchen life easier.
Need an Upgrade This Holiday Season?
The holidays are coming, and extra hands in the kitchen mean more dishes to tackle! Upgrade to a high-performance dishwasher from brands like Bosch, Miele, KitchenAid, Fisher & Paykel, and more.
Stop by our Hyannis, Nantucket, or Hanover showrooms, or browse and shop dishwashers online at KAMAppliances.com. Make sure your kitchen is ready for all the holiday entertaining!