The dishwasher is an essential part of any working kitchen. It guarantees that your dishes and utensils are all disinfected and clean after every use. That is why it’s very important to maintain the cleanliness of your washer. Here are some easy steps to ensure that your dishwasher is in the best shape it can be to tackle tough stains.

The first method uses vinegar and baking soda, both being known for their properties as thorough cleaning agents. Cleaning your dishwasher using baking soda and vinegar is simple; the process should be conducted as follows:

• 1.Remove all items from your dishwasher
• 2.Remove the dishwasher filter
• 3.Soak the filter in the sink with warm water and soap for 10 minutes
• 4.Replace the filter
• 5.Measure one cup of white vinegar
• 6.Add ½ cup of baking soda
• 7.Pour vinegar and baking soda mix in the bottom of the dishwasher
• 8.Run dishwasher on heavy cleaning cycle

Hopefully your dishwasher is sparkling by now, but if not, never fear—there are a few more techniques to try out before giving up.

Bleach is another member of the kitchen cleaning family. When used correctly, it can remove even the toughest of stains. But beware; bleach is very harmful to stainless steel. Do not use bleach if your dishwasher is made of stainless steel.

As you might expect, bleach is a little stronger than vinegar and baking soda. If you have neglected your dishwasher for years and are worried about permanent stains or mold, liquid bleach could be the answer.

If you want to clean your dishwasher with liquid bleach, follow these easy steps:

• 1.Remove all of the items from your dishwasher
• 2.Measure one cup of liquid bleach
• 3.Place liquid bleach in regular serving cup and place on top rack of dishwasher
• 4.Run your dishwasher on the hottest setting

Now if your dishwasher STILL isn’t clean enough, you can try the manual method. Just like it sounds, this method requires a little bit more physical effort, but a little bit of good old fashioned elbow grease never hurt anyone. To clean your dishwasher manually, follow these simple steps:

• 1.Remove all of the items from your dishwasher
• 2.Take out the racks
• 3.Start by cleaning the holes in the spinning arm using something skinny (i.e. a needle or a toothpick) to remove any build-up.
• 4.Use a rag or paper towel to wipe the bottom of the door and as well as the grate with soapy water.
• 5.Take out the filter and wash it thoroughly with warm water. Use baking soda is water isn’t quite getting the job done.
• 6.Wipe down the door seal with a cloth damp with warm water and vinegar (optional).
• 7.Clean the rack that holds utensils with a rag and, if needed, a toothbrush.
• 8.Run the washer with vinegar as described in the previous method.

Now that you’ve tried one or more of these methods, your dishwasher should be sparking just like new.