If you’re the proud owner of a dishwasher, you know how convenient it can be — but have you ever noticed persistent dishwasher odors or bad smells coming from the appliance? It’s not an uncommon problem and can happen even in the most well-maintained dishwashers. Let’s discuss the top reasons for dishwasher odors and how to prevent them so that your machine always stays clean and fresh.
Dishwasher Odors Cause
By understanding what may be causing the smell, you can take steps to minimize it before it gets out of hand. With regular cleaning and maintenance, you can ensure that your dishwasher runs smoothly and smells great for years to come.
Food scraps and debris
Many dishwasher and dishwasher detergent commercials boast the ability to clean dishes that still have food caked on them. However, the food particles left on the dishes have to go somewhere, and they can accumulate in areas such as the filter and plumbing crevices. If left unchecked, these food particles can become stuck and begin to rot. This can lead to unpleasant odors emanating from the dishwasher.
Bacteria and Other Microorganisms
Bacteria and other microorganisms can be a culprit for smelly dishwashers, as they often grow together in a slimy substance called biofilm. This accumulates in areas where water or moisture is present for an extended period of time, such as the seal of the dishwasher door. If you notice an unpleasant smell coming from this area, it may be due to the growth of microorganisms inside the biofilm.
Mold and Mildew
It’s not unusual to find mold in the filter area or rubber seal of a dishwasher door; these areas are prone to trapping food particles and holding water, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. The odor caused by mold and mildew can be especially pungent and hard to remove, which is why it’s important to clean your dishwasher regularly. If you begin to notice a musty smell or spot any signs of mold, this is a sure sign that it’s time for a thorough cleaning.
Hard Water Deposits
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals that can accumulate in your dishwasher over time. These mineral deposits can build up on the dishwasher’s interior, spray arms, and filter, obstructing water flow and leading to inefficient cleaning. Hard water deposits can also trap food particles. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and cause foul odors to emanate from the dishwasher. Over time, these deposits can also damage the dishwasher’s interior and components, reducing its lifespan and efficiency.
Preventing Dishwasher Odors
Now that you know what may be causing your dishwasher odor, let’s talk about how to prevent them.
Scrap Food Before Loading
By scraping your dishes prior to loading them into the dishwasher, you can avoid some food particles getting stuck. Fewer food particles through your dishwasher mean less of a food particle build-up that can lead to dishwasher odor.
Install a Water Softener
To prevent mineral build-ups due to hard water, consider installing a water softener in your home. A water softener will filter the minerals out, so they won’t go through your dishwasher and lead to mineral deposits.
Let the Dishwasher Dry After Use
Leaving your dishwasher door open after a cleaning cycle allows it to air dry. When your dishwasher is able to dry out, you can better prevent mold and mildew growth.
Use Ahh!some to Prevent Dishwasher Odors
On top of everything else, be sure that you are cleaning your dishwasher regularly with Ahh!some Watercare’s Washing Machine/Dishwasher Bio Cleaner and Deodorizer. This product works by eliminating the source of the dishwasher odor, regardless of where it is hiding. Any particles or build-ups will be brought out so they can be wiped away or rinsed back down the drain.
Regardless of what is causing your dishwasher odor Ahh!some Watercare is here to help. Use their Dishwasher Bio Cleaner and Deodorize to eliminate current odors and to prevent odors from occurring again in the future.
Purchase your cleaning products online and check out additional resources on our website. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
