Dishwashers must be cleaned regularly so that they function optimally and germs are killed.
But how often is enough?
In many households, the dishwasher runs every day.
Unfortunately, it doesn't stay clean on its own.
Dirt and limescale deposits can affect the flushing performance and create an unpleasant odour.
In order for crockery, cutlery and glasses to remain sparkling clean, the dishwasher not only has to be loaded properly, but also cleaned regularly.
But how often is enough?
How often do I have to clean the dishwasher?
You should clean the dishwasher every one to two months with a dishwashing detergent.
This interval is also recommended by device manufacturers.
Fat deposits, food residues and limescale are removed and unpleasant odors disappear.
According to Siemens
, anyone who only cleans their device every four to six months should
use a machine cleaning powder that cleans the machine intensively.
In addition, the dishwasher should be descaled once a year.
Limescale can demonstrably damage the device.
If you decalcify your device regularly, you will extend its service life.
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The dishwasher has to be cleaned regularly, otherwise it starts to smell.
But how often is enough?
© AndreyPopov/Imago
Why does the dishwasher often stink?
Stains on glasses and dull cutlery can be the first signs that it is time for a cleaning.
In most cases, however, an unpleasant odor spreads.
This occurs when dirt, grease and lime build up on the metal parts or seals.
There, fungi and bacteria find an ideal breeding ground, where they multiply quickly thanks to the prevailing warmth and humidity - and start to stink.
Five home remedies that replace the usual cleaning products - and that you have in your closet
Five home remedies that replace the usual cleaning products - and that you have in your closet
Cleaning the dishwasher – that's how it works
To prevent the dishwasher from smelling stinky, the dishwasher should not only run in eco mode, but should also be given a rinse cycle at high temperatures (at least 60 degrees) from time to time.
This alone kills many germs.
In addition, you should regularly clean all parts of the machine that can be removed by hand and carry out a cleaning cycle:
A lot of leftover food and fat collect in the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher.
Remove the sieve and clean it regularly under the tap with a little washing-up liquid or vinegar water.
Also check the drain for leftover food.
Check the fine holes in the spray arms to see if they are blocked.
Clean the rubber seal that runs around the dishwasher door with a mild detergent and a cloth.
You can find out here whether the dishwasher door should remain open or closed after the wash cycle.
Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher detergent: Pull off the tab, place the container in the dishwasher and start the hottest possible rinse cycle.
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Alternatively, the dishwasher can be easily cleaned and decalcified with simple household products.
These include citric acid, vinegar or baking soda.
The latter is also an insider tip for cleaning the oven.
Rubric list image: © AndreyPopov/Imago
