Your dishwasher is supposed to make life easier — no more scrubbing plates or standing over a sink for ages. But if it’s leaving behind grime, smelling funky, or not draining properly, it can quickly become a hassle.
At Snap Repairs, we’re often called out to fix dishwashers that are struggling due to simple maintenance issues. The good news? Most of these are preventable. Here are 7 easy tips to help keep your dishwasher running like new.
1. Clean the Filter Regularly
Down at the bottom of your dishwasher is a filter that traps food particles and debris. If it gets clogged, you’ll end up with smelly water and dirty dishes. Take it out and rinse it under hot water every couple of weeks (more often if your household runs it daily).
2. Run a Hot Cleaning Cycle
Once a month, run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar placed in a bowl on the top rack. This clears out grease, grime, and odours — and keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh.
3. Check and Clean the Spray Arms
Those spinning arms with tiny holes? They’re what spray water over your dishes. Food and mineral build-up can block the jets, so remove the arms every now and then and poke out any gunk with a toothpick or brush.
4. Wipe the Door Seals
The rubber gasket around the door traps moisture, food splashes, and even mould. Give it a wipe with a damp cloth or some vinegar every couple of weeks to keep it clean and sealing properly.
5. Use the Right Detergent
Too much detergent — or the wrong kind — can leave residue behind and cause foaming issues. Always use dishwasher-specific products and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for how much to use.
6. Don’t Overload or Stack Poorly
Stuffing too many dishes in (or placing them incorrectly) blocks the spray arms and leaves items dirty. Give each dish enough space, and make sure nothing is blocking the detergent dispenser or spray arms from moving.
7. Check for Leaks and Drainage Issues
If you notice water pooling at the bottom or leaking from the door, don’t ignore it. It could be a worn-out seal, a blocked drain hose, or a deeper issue — all things we can fix before they get worse.
Need Help? Snap Repairs Is a Call Away
Whether it’s weird noises, drainage problems, or dishes coming out dirtier than they went in — we’ve seen it all and know exactly how to get your dishwasher back on track. Fast, friendly, and no mess.
Book your dishwasher repair with Snap Repairs today — and bring back that squeaky-clean sparkle.