A dishwasher is supposed to make your kitchen cleaner—not smell worse than the sink! If your dishwasher has started to give off unpleasant odors, it’s usually due to trapped food particles, grease buildup, or mold hiding in filters, spray arms, and seals. The good news? You can easily fix it with a few simple cleaning steps. And when the smell becomes too stubborn, professionals like Maids in Dubai or trusted teams from a Dubai maid agency can help freshen it deeply.

Here’s how to clean a stinky dishwasher the right way.

1. Start by Cleaning the Filter

The filter is the biggest cause of dishwasher smells.

How to clean it:

• Remove the bottom rack

• Twist and lift the filter out

• Rinse it under hot water

• Scrub lightly with a soft brush

• Reinstall it securely

Food particles stuck here create bacteria and foul odors. Many people rely on affordable cleaning services to clean filters regularly because it can get messy.

2. Scrub the Spray Arms

Over time, tiny bits of food get lodged inside the spray arm holes.

Steps:

• Remove the arms (check your manual)

• Rinse them under warm water

• Use a toothpick to unclog the holes

• Reattach firmly

Clean spray arms help remove buildup and improve washing performance.

3. Deep Clean the Door Seals

Rubber door seals collect grease, soap scum, and even mold.

To clean:

• Mix warm water with dish soap or vinegar

• Wipe the seals thoroughly

• Pay attention to edges and folds

• Dry completely

Professional cleaners such as a Dubai maid always clean dishwasher seals to prevent odor and mold growth.

4. Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar

Vinegar dissolves mineral buildup and kills odor-causing bacteria.

Instructions:

• Fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar

• Place it on the top rack

• Run a hot wash cycle

This flushes out grease and grime from the inside.

5. Deodorize with Baking Soda

To freshen the dishwasher:

• Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher

• Run a short, hot cycle

• Let the dishwasher air-dry naturally

Baking soda neutralizes odor without harsh chemicals.

6. Check and Clean the Drain Area

The drain area can hide food scraps that rot over time.

• Remove visible debris carefully

• Wipe with a damp cloth

• Make sure nothing is blocking the drain

A clogged drain not only stinks but also reduces dishwasher efficiency.

7. Leave the Door Open After Each Use

Moisture causes mold and odors.

• Keep the door slightly open after washing

• Allow the interior to dry fully

This simple habit, used by many cheap cleaning service teams, prevents most dishwasher smells from returning.

8. When to Call a Professional

If the smell persists despite cleaning, the problem may be deeper:

• Mold inside hidden components

• Plumbing issues

• Grease buildup in the drainage hose

Professional cleaners from affordable cleaning services, Dubai maid agency, or trained Maids in Dubai have the tools to sanitize areas you cannot access.

Final Thoughts

A stinky dishwasher doesn’t have to ruin your kitchen’s freshness. By cleaning the filter, spray arms, seals, and running deodorizing cycles, you can restore a clean, odor-free appliance. And if you ever need expert help, a reliable Dubai maid, cheap cleaning service, or reputable affordable cleaning services provider can give your dishwasher a deep and lasting clean.