Your dishwasher may be cleaning your dishes — but who’s cleaning the dishwasher? At Checklist AZ, we’ve found that many homeowners don’t realize just how important it is to keep their appliances clean inside and out.

A dirty dishwasher can cause cloudy glassware, funky odors, poor performance, and even long-term damage. The good news? You don’t need a repair tech or fancy tools. Just a little regular attention and some vinegar can make a big difference.

Why Dishwasher Maintenance Matters in Arizona

It’s Not Just About Clean Dishes

Here in Arizona, hard water is a big problem, especially for homeowners without a water softener. Over time, mineral deposits build up inside your dishwasher — along with food particles and grease.

That buildup can:

• Clog filters and spray arms
• Reduce cleaning performance
• Leave residue on plates and glasses
• Cause odor and internal staining

Your dishwasher works hard — make sure it stays in top shape.

Start with the Filter Screen

Your dishwasher has a small screen at the bottom designed to catch food particles and debris. If it gets clogged, your dishes won’t rinse properly.

Once a month (or more often if you use it daily):

• Pull out the bottom rack
• Look for any visible gunk or food
• Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water
• Use a toothbrush or soft cloth to scrub it if needed

It only takes a couple of minutes but can significantly improve your dishwasher’s performance.

Two Easy Ways to Deep Clean Your Dishwasher

1. Use a Dishwasher Cleaner Tablet

You can find these at any grocery or home improvement store. Just:

• Place the tablet inside
• Run a cycle with no dishes
• Let it dissolve and clean the inside walls, spray arms, and drain

2. The Vinegar Trick (Our Favorite)

White vinegar is a natural cleaning powerhouse — especially cleaning vinegar, which is slightly more acidic but still safe to use.

To deep clean with vinegar:

• Pour two cups of cleaning vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl
• Place it on the top rack of your empty dishwasher
• Run a hot water cycle

This removes grime, cuts through mineral buildup, and leaves your dishwasher smelling fresh.

Bonus Tip: You can do the same thing in your clothes washer to break down hard water deposits and detergent residue. Just pour in a couple of cups and run a hot cycle with no clothes.

A Clean Dishwasher = Cleaner Dishes + Longer Lifespan

Dishwasher maintenance doesn’t need to be a chore — and it can help:

• Extend the life of your appliance
• Improve energy efficiency
• Eliminate odors and mineral buildup

Regular upkeep saves money on repairs and replacements.

At Checklist AZ, we care about the details. Whether it’s dishwashers, roofing, irrigation, or GFCIs, we’re here to help Arizona homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and comfortable homes.

👉 Call us at 480-361-8120 to schedule your next home inspection or get expert tips tailored to your property. Serving homeowners across Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, and beyond.