Sick Of Dishwasher Mold? Discover How To Remove It Once And For All
Finding mold growing in your dishwasher is a common frustration for many homeowners. The warm, damp environment inside a dishwasher provides the perfect conditions for mold to thrive. Left unchecked, this mold can spread onto dishes, release unpleasant odors, and even pose potential health hazards to your family.
But you don't have to live with a smelly, moldy dishwasher! With some simple cleaning methods and preventative maintenance, you can banish dishwasher mold for good. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to thoroughly remove existing mold and stop it from coming back.
How To Tell If You Have Mold In Your Dishwasher
Here are the most common signs that point to a mold problem lurking in your dishwasher:
- Musty, earthy odors coming from the dishwasher, especially when you open the door
- Visible mold growth on the interior, around rubber gaskets and the detergent dispenser
- Black or green spots and stains on the walls or floor of the dishwasher
- Mold and mildew buildup around the drain area
If you notice any of these warning signs, it's time to take action to get rid of dishwasher mold.
Dangers Of Mold Growth In Your Dishwasher
While mold in a dishwasher is fairly common, that doesn't mean it isn't a problem. Here are some of the biggest concerns:
- Inhaling airborne mold spores can trigger allergic reactions or asthma symptoms
- Mold can spread from the dishwasher onto clean dishes
- Prolonged mold growth can damage the dishwasher itself
Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your dishwasher kills mold and prevents these problems from occurring.
How To Thoroughly Clean Mold Out Of The Dishwasher
Step 1: Empty The Dishwasher
Before tackling the mold inside, remove everything from the dishwasher. Take out all dishes, racks, detergent, rinse aid, and anything else still sitting inside.
Step 2: Remove Parts For Cleaning
Several dishwasher parts are prone to collecting mold growth. Take these out so you can scrub away built up grime:
- Filter - catches food particles where mold thrives
- Spray arms - mold can clog sprayer nozzles
- Drain plug - buildup occurs where water pools
Step 3: Clean Interior With Hot Soapy Water
It's time to tackle the dishwasher itself. Make a hot water solution with dish soap and use a sponge or scrubbing brush to clean all interior surfaces, paying attention to problem areas like:
- Gaskets and seals around the door
- Corners and crevices where grime accumulates
- Under the bottom front lip
- Detergent dispenser where residue collects
Scrub until the walls and floor of the dishwasher are free of visible mold, mildew and stains.
Step 4: Sanitize With Vinegar
For the most thorough clean, follow up your hot soapy scrub with a vinegar rinse to kill any remaining spores:
- Fill the detergent dispenser with plain white vinegar
- Run a hot wash cycle with the dishwasher empty
- Allow the vinegar to sit for 15 minutes before completing the cycle
- Use a soft cloth soaked in vinegar to wipe away any lingering odor
Keep Mold Out Of Your Dishwasher With Preventative Maintenance
Now that your dishwasher is sparkling clean, keep it that way using these tips:
Allow Dishwasher To Air Dry
Moisture left inside after washing leads to mold growth. Help your dishwasher dry out faster:
- After cycles, prop door open slightly to improve airflow
- Use heated dry setting to evaporate remaining moisture
Clean Seals And Gaskets
Rubber gaskets easily collect water, food and residue. Prevent this with regular cleaning:
- Wipe seals with a cloth and hot soapy water weekly
- Spray gaskets with vinegar and wipe down monthly
Monthly Vinegar Rinse
Schedule a monthly sanitizing session to nip mold in the bud:
- Run empty dishwasher with 2 c. vinegar on hottest setting
- Helps remove stains, odors and old soap scum
Pair this with wiping down the door seals and interior corners.
Other Handy Tips
- Clean out leftover food in sink disposal before running dishwasher
- Don't allow dirty dishes to sit for more than a day or two
- Regularly clean out detergent dispenser and along rim
When To Call A Professional For Dishwasher Mold Removal
Severe mold infestations may require professional service. Call an appliance repair technician if:
- Mold persists after thorough cleaning
- Musty odors return quickly
- Visible mold is spotted on dishes
- You see leaks, rust or damaged components
A technician can inspect for serious underlying issues and may need to replace certain dishwasher parts.
Don't put up with the musty smell and health hazards of a molded-over dishwasher. With the proper cleaning methods and regular maintenance, you can eliminate existing mold and prevent it from returning.
Implement these tips, and you'll be able to load sparkling clean dishes into a fresh-smelling dishwasher after every cycle. No more dingy racks or worrying about what's growing inside.