19:19 03-12-2025
Fix a smelly dishwasher fast with baking soda and vinegar
Generated by DALL·E
Tackle dishwasher odors fast with baking soda and vinegar. Clean the filter, sprinkle soda, add vinegar, run a hot cycle; plus tips for gaskets and drainage.
An unfamiliar—or frankly rotten—odor wafting from the dishwasher is a common kitchen nuisance. It’s usually the result of trapped food particles, lingering moisture, mold, or greasy residue tucked into hard-to-reach corners. Given enough time, all of that breaks down, and the machine can smell worse than the trash.
Most often, the culprits are the filter, the door gaskets, or the inner walls of the tub, where bits of food settle after a few runs.
What quickly tackles the smell
Despite the off-putting aroma, the solution is surprisingly straightforward: plain baking soda paired with vinegar. Together, they neutralize odors and lift residue without putting the appliance at risk.
- Baking soda absorbs unpleasant smells and gently scours surfaces.
- Vinegar breaks down greasy deposits and acts as a natural antiseptic.
- Used in tandem, they’re especially effective.
How to use baking soda and vinegar the right way
To bring freshness back to the dishwasher, a few simple steps are enough:
Clean the filter
This is where food scraps most often collect. A good rinse often reduces the smell right away.
Sprinkle baking soda over the bottom of the tub
A light layer is enough to distribute it evenly.
Add vinegar
Pour it into a small cup and place it inside the machine.
Run a hot cycle
During the wash, the baking soda and vinegar react and gently cleanse the interior. By the end, the air inside is usually noticeably fresher.
When to repeat the routine
If the odor returns quickly, it’s worth checking:
- the cleanliness of the door gaskets,
- the condition of the spray arms,
- whether water is pooling at the bottom,
- whether basic care is happening after each cycle.
Regular upkeep prevents unwelcome surprises and helps the appliance last longer—an easy habit that pays off.