You might think your dishwasher is always clean because it gets cleaned along with the dishes when you use it, but this is far from true. The main issue here is that it can be prone to mold. If this is the case, then it could be hazardous to your health since it can cling to your dishes and silverware even after they have been cleaned. To ensure this doesn’t happen, here are ways on how you can prevent mold growth in your dishwasher.
Sanitize the gasket
The rubber seal on the inside of the door is the number one place where mold and bacteria collect, so be sure to give it a thorough clean every few weeks. A toothbrush and some soapy water are all you need to get the worst of the grime, but mixing some white vinegar into the water can help punch up the sanitizing power. Be sure to dry it off thoroughly with a paper towel when you’re done, or the germs will just start collecting all over again.
Clean out the filter
Check the dishwasher filter regularly for food particles and other debris. Rotting food is a huge source of mold in the dishwasher, especially if it gets circulated around the wash tub during cycles. If you want to keep mold from taking hold, clean out the filter about once a week, and give the filter fixture a good scrub in soapy water at least once a month. Source: Daniel Appliance
Be careful when air-drying dishes
Some people like to leave their dishes to air dry after a wash cycle. While this may be eco-friendly and energy-efficient, if the dishwasher does not completely dry out, you run the risk of mold forming.
If you like to air dry your dishes, make sure the dishwasher door is left open during the process, and remove any moisture that is left in the dishwasher after the dishes have been put away. Source: Authorized Service
Use white vinegar and baking soda
White vinegar is an effective way to tackle dishwasher mold. Run an empty cycle with a cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container placed on the top rack to kill mold spores and neutralize odors. For a deep clean, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher before running a short cycle. This combination helps prevent mold in your dishwasher without using harsh chemicals.
Check for leaks and maintain regular cleaning cycles
Leaks can create moisture, which accelerates mold colony growth in your dishwasher. Regularly inspect for leaks, especially around the dishwasher door and drain hose. Additionally, run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial cleaner every month to keep mold at bay. Wondering how you can tell when your dishwasher needs to be replaced? Persistent leaks, frequent malfunctions, or a constant return of mold despite regular cleaning are strong indicators that it’s time for a new appliance. If these issues keep occurring, an upgrade is likely necessary. Source: Town Appliance
We hope that you follow through with the regular cleaning and maintenance of your dishwasher to ensure the safety of your family. If you want a professional to handle it, then we can be of service to you – just give us a call!