How to clean the dishwasher: Tips and tricks
Because a dishwasher is constantly using hot soapy water, it’s easy to overlook the fact that it also needs to be cleaned from time to time! Cleaning your dishwasher once a month eliminates grease, detergent build up and hard water deposits that can affect the efficiency, performance and longevity of your washing machine. Not to mention that a regular cleaning eradicates and prevents odours caused by bacteria, food particles and mould. Check out these tips and tricks to keep your dishwasher efficient and sanitised.
How to use dishwasher cleaners to clean your dishwasher
The best way to clean your dishwasher is by using special dishwasher cleaners like the Triple Power Pod offered by Care+Protect. This cleaner is hassle-free, saves water and is the most effective at removing grease and lime deposits.
The Care+Protect Triple Power Pod is the first descaler and degreaser on the market that can be used at full cycle. This means that you can throw in a power pod during a normal wash cycle, with dishes and your usual detergent. Both your kitchenware and your dishwasher are cleaned at the same time without the need to run multiple cycles, saving water, time and energy costs. The power pod’s liquid formula is activated even at lower temperatures (no need to use a hot water cycle) and is residue free, totally safe for your plates.
Start by filling your dishwasher as you normally would, adding the detergent and rinse aid in the proper compartments. Place the single-dose pod anywhere in the dishwasher. Be sure not to damage or puncture the pod, the contents will be released on their own once the wash cycle starts. And like magic, your dishwasher is descaled, degreased, and sanitised in one easy step.
What is a descaler?
Descalers are products that eliminate the mineral buildup left behind by hard water. Hard water is water that contains a high level of minerals which lead to limescale deposits in appliances that use water. Limescale deposits are one of the leading factors of reduced performance in dishwashers. Limescale deposits also act as an insulator which can cause heating elements to overheat, possibly damaging them and affecting normal functioning. Using a dishwasher cleaner like the Care+Protect Triple Power Pods are essential to lowering your energy consumption, prolonging your dishwasher’s performance and protecting it for many years to come.
How to use vinegar and baking soda to clean your dishwasher?
Although less effective, requiring more energy and water consumption, you can also clean your dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria while baking soda neutralises odours.
Tip: Using baking soda and vinegar in your washing machine is safe but does not have the descaling properties of the Triple Power Pod.
Step 1: Vinegar rinse
Fill a plastic or glass dishwasher-safe container with distilled white vinegar. Place the container on the bottom rack of the dishwasher and close the dishwasher. Run a short hot water rinse cycle. Skip the drying cycle to save on energy costs and leave the door of the dishwasher slightly open to air dry.
Step 2: Baking Soda Rinse
After the vinegar rinse is complete, take out the empty container, and sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher. Then run another short hot water rinse cycle. That’s all it takes for a fresh, sparkling clean dishwasher!
Important!: Unlike the Triple Power Pod, you cannot use both baking soda and vinegar at the same time in the dishwasher. This will generate an enormous amount of foam and you will be left with a big mess to clean up. Make sure to always run two separate rinse cycles. First vinegar and afterwards, baking soda.
Expert tips for a clean dishwasher
Tip 1: Clean the outside door once a week
Splatter from cooking or water spots on your dishwasher door are unsightly and unsanitary. Wiping the door down once a week will prevent sticky messes and stains.
Tip 2: For an extra clean dishwasher, clean the strainer weekly
This is the part at the bottom of the dishwasher where food debris can sometimes build up. Pull out the bottom rack of the dishwasher and inspect the bottom where the strainer is located. With a sponge or cloth, remove any food particles, debris and gunk that might be lingering there. Replace the bottom rack and you’re ready to go!
Tip 3: Cleaning stainless steel dishwashers
Not only are stainless steel appliances and dishwashers sleek and modern, they also offer durability and ease of cleaning. But, they do require a few considerations to ensure that they are cleaned properly. Use a microfibre cloth and a stainless steel cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner and always to move the cloth in the same direction, for example, in the gain of the metal to avoid streaks.
Important!: Never use bleach in or on stainless steel appliances or dishwashers. Bleach can permanently damage and stain stainless steel.
Overview
Cleaning and sanitising your dishwasher is important for eliminating bacteria and microbes that can affect your health. The proper care of your dishwasher is also very important to its longevity and efficiency. Care+Protect makes taking care of these three worries a breeze.
With the Triple Power Pod you can sanitise and eliminate grease and lime deposits at the same time, and all while washing your dishes! No extra cycles are needed. With the right products like professional dishwasher cleaners, you can rest easy knowing that your dishwasher will be running like new for many years to come.
