How to Clean a Dishwasher Without Harsh Chemicals

Published: March 4, 2025
Updated: April 23, 2025

Be honest—when was the last time you cleaned your dishwasher? Don’t worry (us, too). It's easy to forget to hit the dishwasher during a deep clean, but it could be the reason your dishes aren’t getting as sparkling clean as they used to. Luckily, it’s pretty easy—and you can clean it fully and effectively without any harsh chemicals or ingredients that are unsafe for your family and the planet!

The Importance of Cleaning Your Dishwasher

You might be thinking, "Doesn't my dishwasher clean itself?" While it cleans your dirty dishes, particles like food, grease, soap scum, and grime can gather inside your dishwasher—especially the filter—over time. A wet and grimy environment like the inside of a dishwasher is also the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew which can be particularly stubborn when left undealt with for long periods of time. Regular cleaning helps it work its best, stopping clogs and extending the life of your machine. Bonus: a clean dishwasher also makes your kitchen smell better!

Preparing to Clean Your Dishwasher

Okay—so you’re ready to clean your dishwasher using gentle, safe, and effective methods. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Essential Supplies

• Blueland Multi-Surface Cleaner : the do-it-all cleaner.
• Powder Dish Soap : a gentle but effective washing aid.
• White Vinegar: Great for cleaning and deodorizing bad smells.
• Baking Soda: Helps with tough stains and keeps your dishwasher fresh.
• Cloth: Opt for a cloth (versus paper towels or scrubbers) to easily access small spaces while keeping it eco-friendly.
• Hot Water: Easily breaks down dirt and grime buildup.

Before You Begin, Some Safety Tips:

• Empty the Dishwasher: Make sure your dishwasher is completely empty before you clean it. Remove all dishes, silverware, and any removable parts of the dishwasher.
• Protect Yourself: Even when using natural ingredients, it’s smart to wear gloves. This is especially true if your skin is sensitive.
• Ventilation: Good air flow is important, even when using natural cleaners. Keep your kitchen well-ventilated while you clean.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher

Now that you’re prepped and ready, let’s get into the dirty details:

Step 1: Remove and Rinse the Filter

Find your dishwasher filter, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher. Carefully remove it. For specific steps, you can check your dishwasher manual. Rinse it well under hot water to get rid of any loose particles.

If you see stubborn bits of food stuck, use Powder Dish Soap and a soft toothbrush to gently remove them. Once your filter is clean, put it back into the dishwasher.

Step 2: Deep Clean with Vinegar

Spread one cup of baking soda evenly along the bottom of the dishwasher. Then, pour one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe container. Place the container upright on the bottom rack of your empty dishwasher. Run a full cleaning cycle on the hottest water setting. Once the cycle is complete, leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar to air dry. This will leave your dishwasher sparkling and smelling fresh!

Step 3: Scrubbing the Interior and Accessories

While the vinegar is working, give a bit of attention to the spots most typically forgotten. Take a damp cloth or sponge and use it to gently scrub the inside walls of your dishwasher with Blueland's Multi-Surface Cleaner. Pay extra attention to the door seal.

Then, using Powder Dish Soap and a soft toothbrush, clean the items you removed from the dishwasher—spray nozzles, cutlery baskets, etc.

With these quick tips, you can keep your dishwasher looking great, smelling clean, and working effectively—all without the use of harmful, harsh chemicals!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you clean your dishwasher?

To get the best results and avoid a smelly dishwasher, it's good to set up a regular dishwasher cleaning schedule. If you use your dishwasher often, you might want to clean it even more.

What should I do if my dishwasher still smells after cleaning?

If your dishwasher still smells bad or is not cleaning properly after you clean it, there may be some bits of food left inside the filter. You can try running an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar. This can help get rid of the unpleasant odors that remain.