A sparkling clean dishwasher means spotless dishes every time—but even your KitchenAid needs a little cleaning love to perform its best. Over time, food particles, grease, and hard water deposits can build up, leaving behind odors and reducing efficiency. If you’re wondering how to clean KitchenAid dishwasher units the right way, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down simple, effective steps to keep your appliance in top shape and ensure every cycle leaves your dishes gleaming.
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Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Neglecting dishwasher maintenance can lead to clogged filters, reduced cleaning power, unpleasant smells, and even system malfunctions. Grease, soap scum, and food debris build up over time—especially if you run heavy loads or hard water is a factor in your home.
By implementing a cleaning routine, you’ll:
- Enhance washing performance
- Eliminate odors
- Prevent limescale buildup
Extend the lifespan of your appliance
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your KitchenAid Dishwasher
1. Empty the Dishwasher Completely
Before starting, ensure there are no dishes, utensils, or food debris inside. Remove racks and utensil holders for separate cleaning.
2. Clean the Filter Thoroughly
KitchenAid dishwashers typically have an upper filter assembly and lower filter located at the bottom of the tub. Follow these steps:
- Turn the upper filter counterclockwise and lift it out.
- Remove the lower filter carefully by lifting it out.
- Rinse both under warm running water, using a soft toothbrush and dish soap to scrub away any debris, grease, or mineral deposits.
- Ensure there are no obstructions in the area where the filters sit.
- Replace both filters securely to avoid performance issues or damage.
3. Inspect and Clean the Spray Arms
Spray arms are essential for water circulation. Over time, food particles and mineral deposits can clog the holes.
- Remove both upper and lower spray arms if your model allows.
- Rinse under water and use a toothpick or fine wire to dislodge anything stuck in the holes.
- Soak them in a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 1 part water) for 15–30 minutes if hard water deposits are visible.
- Rinse well and reinstall them.
4. Wipe Down the Door Gasket and Edges
The rubber gasket around the door seals in moisture and can trap grime and mildew.
- Mix warm water and mild dish soap.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the gasket, edges of the door, and underneath the bottom lip.
- Use an old toothbrush for corners and crevices.
- Dry with a microfiber cloth.
5. Clean the Interior Walls and Racks
Even if the interior appears clean, a sticky film can build up on the stainless-steel tub and dish racks over time.
- Wipe down the walls and racks with a damp cloth soaked in white vinegar.
- For persistent stains or grease, sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub.
- Rinse with warm water and allow to air dry.
6. Run a Vinegar Wash Cycle
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that dissolves grease and removes odors.
- Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with 2 cups of white vinegar on the top rack.
- Run a hot water cycle (without detergent).
- Do not use this method if your dishwasher has a stainless-steel interior and vinegar is not recommended by the manufacturer.
7. Use Baking Soda for Freshness
Baking soda neutralizes odor and gives the interior a fresh, clean smell.
- After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda along the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Run a short hot cycle.
- Skip this step if combining with commercial dishwasher cleaners.
8. Clean the Exterior and Control Panel
Fingerprint marks, grease, and splashes can dull the exterior.
- For stainless steel finishes, use a designated stainless steel cleaner or a damp cloth with white vinegar.
- For plastic exteriors, warm water and mild dish soap work well.
- Clean around buttons and handles carefully using a soft cloth.
9. Maintain the Drain Area
Check the bottom of your dishwasher where water drains to ensure there are no food chunks, glass pieces, or grime.
- Use gloves and a flashlight if needed.
- Carefully remove debris to ensure efficient drainage.
10. Optional: Use a Commercial Dishwasher Cleaner
Products like Affresh, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner, or Glisten are formulated to remove hard water scale, limescale, and grease.
- Follow package instructions.
- Typically used once a month for deep cleaning.
- Ensure your dishwasher is empty during use.
Pro Tips for Ongoing Maintenance
- Run hot water at your sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure the initial fill is warm.
- Scrape but don’t rinse dishes—modern dishwashers are designed to handle small food particles.
- Run your dishwasher at least every 2–3 days to prevent seals from drying and bacteria from growing.
- Leave the door slightly ajar after cycles to air out moisture.
- Descale monthly in hard water areas using dishwasher-safe cleaners or vinegar (if approved).
When to Call for Professional Service
If your KitchenAid dishwasher still smells, isn’t cleaning properly, or displays error codes even after thorough cleaning, it may be time to seek KitchenAid dishwasher repair services. Common signs that your appliance needs professional attention include:
- Unusual noises
- Water not draining properly
- Cloudy glassware
- Persistent odor
- Leaking from the door or bottom
A certified technician can inspect and fix deeper issues involving the pump, motor, sensors, or electronic components.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your KitchenAid Dishwasher Running Like New
Maintaining a clean KitchenAid dishwasher not only guarantees spotless dishes but also ensures that your appliance runs at peak performance for years. A regular cleaning schedule—focused on filters, spray arms, interiors, and seals—can prevent buildup, reduce costly repairs, and eliminate foul smells.
Stay consistent, use natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and baking soda, and don’t ignore the small parts. With just a bit of monthly upkeep, your dishwasher will always deliver the best results. And if problems persist, trust the experts at 5 Star Appliance Repair to provide reliable KitchenAid dishwasher services when you need them most.
FAQs
How often should I clean my KitchenAid dishwasher filter?
You should clean the filter once a month or more frequently if you run heavy loads. A clean filter improves water flow and ensures your dishes come out spotless every time.
Can I use vinegar and baking soda together in my KitchenAid dishwasher?
It’s best to use them in separate cycles—vinegar for descaling and deodorizing, baking soda for freshening. Using them together may cause a fizzy reaction that dilutes their individual effectiveness.
What causes cloudy glassware even after cleaning the dishwasher?
Cloudy glassware is usually a sign of hard water buildup or insufficient rinse aid. Regular cleaning and using a rinse aid or water softener can help eliminate the haze.
Is it necessary to remove spray arms for cleaning?
Yes, if your model allows, removing the spray arms helps you clean out mineral deposits and food debris lodged in the holes. This ensures proper water circulation and optimal cleaning performance.
When should I consider professional KitchenAid dishwasher repair services?
If you notice persistent odors, draining issues, error codes, or unusual noises despite regular maintenance, it’s time to call for expert help. Certified technicians can diagnose and fix internal problems that basic cleaning can’t resolve.