Quiet, practical and efficient, the dishwasher has everything to make everyday life easier. And yet it is one of the most neglected household appliances when it comes to maintenance. The result? A gradual decrease in its efficiency, unpleasant odors, and sometimes even premature breakdown. What many people don’t know is that a very specific – and often forgotten – maintenance method can literally extend the life of the dishwasher and restore its cleaning power.
Why a dishwasher can become dirty despite regular use
The idea that a dishwasher cleans itself is a persistent one. After all, it is filled with hot water and detergent with every cycle, isn’t it? In reality, it is quite the opposite. Food residues, grease, limescale deposits and traces of washing-up liquid build up little by little in the pipes, the spray arms, the filter, and even in the seals.
This invisible build-up causes a series of problems: the glasses become opaque, the plates come out still greasy, a bad smell develops, and energy consumption climbs with no apparent explanation. And the longer you wait, the more difficult the dirt becomes to dislodge.
The mistake that everyone makes (without knowing it)
Cleaning the filter from time to time is not enough. Many think they are doing the right thing by running an empty program with white vinegar, but this method alone only addresses part of the problem. What is often forgotten? The thorough cleaning of the spray arms.
These arms, located under and sometimes above the baskets, have small holes through which pressurized water is sprayed. Over time, these orifices become partially or totally blocked by limescale, food residues and even grease. If the water can no longer circulate freely, the quality of the wash deteriorates. This is the crux of the problem.
The forgotten maintenance method that changes everything
Deep cleaning the spray arms can radically improve the performance of the dishwasher. This simple but extremely effective method consists of regularly dismantling them to manually remove all the impurities lodged in the small holes.
Here are the steps to follow, to be carried out approximately every two months:
- Turn off the appliance and remove the spray arms: They are usually clipped or screwed on. Once in your hand, look at the orifices for deposits.
- Use a toothpick, paper clip or small needle to unblock the holes one by one, taking care not to enlarge them.
- Run your arms under hot water with a little washing-up liquid to remove any grease that has built up inside.
- Gently shake to remove any debris lodged inside the arm pipe.
- Put your arms back in place and run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or a homemade mixture of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar.
This simple action restores optimal water pressure, guaranteeing a more even and powerful wash, while avoiding general clogging of the appliance.
Other areas that should not be neglected
In addition to the arms, several elements must be closely monitored to avoid overall clogging:
- The filter, of course, is the first barrier against residue. If it is blocked, the water stagnates and unpleasant odors quickly appear. It should be cleaned every one to two weeks.
- Door seals, which are often forgotten, also accumulate grease and mold. A damp sponge soaked in white vinegar is enough to keep them clean and supple.
- The lower seal, the one hidden under the door, is particularly susceptible to dirt. It is useful to clean it with a toothbrush at least once a month.
Finally, the detergent dispenser deserves some attention. Powder or liquid residues can stick to it, preventing it from opening completely. Simply clean it with a damp cloth and a little hot water.
What to avoid to prevent the problem from getting worse
Some habits, although ingrained, contribute to the clogging of the dishwasher. For example, rinsing dishes systematically before placing them in the machine is not recommended. This deprives the dishwasher of the dirt on which the enzymes of the products act. On the other hand, removing large pieces is more than enough.
Using too much product or tablets that are not suitable for the water hardness also leads to deposits. In limestone regions, the addition of regenerating salt and rinse aid is essential to limit limescale.
And above all, don’t wait until the appliance shows signs of weakness before cleaning it. Preventive maintenance is the key.
A well-maintained dishwasher works better, lasts longer and consumes less. And sometimes all it takes is a simple forgotten gesture to change everything.
