Why does our dishwasher smell?

A smelly dishwasher can have various causes, such as food residue, stagnant water, dirty seals, blocked spray arms and old or expired detergent. To tackle this problem, HG offers effective solutions such as HG dishwasher cleaner and odour freshener, along with practical cleaning tips. You can also try household remedies, such as running an empty dishwasher cycle with vinegar, cleaning the drain and filters, using coffee grounds to absorb odours and cleaning the rubber seal with lemon juice. With regular maintenance and by addressing the root causes, you can enjoy a fresh-smelling and hygienic dishwasher.

HG solutions for a smelly dishwasher

If your dishwasher smells unpleasant, there are effective HG solutions you can use to tackle this problem:

• HG dishwasher cleaner and odour freshener is specially designed to remove grease, food and soap residue build-up in the drain pipes, filter and seals. This product delivers a fresh-smelling dishwasher and promotes hygiene and cleaner dishes.
• Follow the steps in the guide on how to clean a dishwasher for a thorough clean of your appliance. This guide will help you clean your dishwasher effectively.
• Read our guide on how to stop the dishwasher from smelling for more information about the causes of a smelly dishwasher and how to solve this problem using HG products.

By regularly using HG dishwasher cleaner and odour freshener and following our cleaning tips, you can enjoy a fresh-smelling and hygienic dishwasher.

Solutions for a smelly dishwasher

If your dishwasher is giving off unpleasant odours, there are some household remedies you can try to solve the problem. Although these solutions are not always as effective as professional products and can sometimes carry risks, they are worth trying before considering stronger measures:

• Run an empty dishwasher cycle on the highest temperature with a cup of vinegar placed on the top rack. The vinegar helps neutralise bad smells and remove light build-up.
• Thoroughly clean the drain and filters with an old toothbrush and warm water to remove accumulated dirt and food residue that can cause unpleasant odours.
• Place a bowl of coffee grounds in the dishwasher and leave it overnight. Coffee grounds absorb odours and can help your dishwasher smell fresher.
• Wipe the rubber seal around the door with a cloth soaked in a mixture of water and lemon juice. This helps remove mould and bacteria that can build up there.

Try these solutions with some caution and bear in mind that they will not be sufficient in all cases. For persistent problems, it is advisable to consider a specialist dishwasher cleaning product.

Causes of a smelly dishwasher

A smelly dishwasher can be an annoying problem. Here are some common causes and how to prevent them in future:

• Food residue: Food particles can accumulate in the filter or drain, leading to unpleasant odours. Regularly cleaning the filter and removing large food particles before loading the dishwasher can help prevent this.
• Stagnant water: If water remains in the machine, it can start to smell. Check after each cycle that no water is left behind and leave the door slightly open to allow the machine to dry.
• Dirty seals: The rubber seals around the door can accumulate dirt and mould. Regular cleaning with a cloth and mild detergent keeps the seals fresh.
• Blocked spray arms: Blocked spray arms can lead to poor water circulation and odours. Check the spray arms for blockages and clean them if necessary.
• Old or expired detergent: Old or expired detergent can lose its effectiveness and contribute to odours. Always use fresh detergent and store it in a cool, dry place.

By addressing these causes and carrying out regular maintenance, you can prevent unpleasant odours in your dishwasher and ensure fresh, clean dishes. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dishwasher functioning optimally and smelling fresh. This includes cleaning the filter weekly, wiping down the interior after each use, and running a cleaning cycle monthly. Taking these preventive measures will save you time and effort in the long run while ensuring your dishes come out sparkling clean every time.