It is funny to think, that the very thing that actually cleans dishes can get smelly, but it does!
My dishwasher started getting this funky mildewy smell, that was even worse when the dishwasher was going thru the drying part.
It smelt like "heated mildew" and actually started to make some of the dishes smell. GROSS!
I looked around and found this option so far to be the best homemade cleaner for the dishwasher. If you do this 3-4 times a year, or say.. each season you should keep it at bay.
But also check the filter in your machine. I didn't even know my machine had a filter, until I looked up my model and found it.
Rotting bits of food can get stuck in the filter, or in the bottom of the machine near the drain, and this alone can create a funky smell.
Here is my best formula!!
Step 1. Make sure the dishwasher is empty.
Step 2. Check any filter (you can look your machine up online if you don't have any paperwork.)
Step 3. Check in the bottom of the machine under the spray arms to see if there is any food particles. Using a flashlight helps with this.
Step 4. Place a small bowl with 1 cup of white vinegar upright between the cup holders so that it doesn't move.
Step 5. Run your machine on the hot cycle.
Step 6. When it is done, open the door to let it air dry inside.
This worked for me. I had read about lemon juice and baking soda but in all honesty the best option that worked for my funky dishwasher smell was plain old white vinegar.
You can also purchase:
dishwasher cleaner online if you prefer something ready to go. But really the vinegar did an awesome job. If you do this at least 3-4 times a year, you should be able to stay on top of the funky smells.
