The final post in our Cleaning Your Appliances series dives into the dishwasher – because even machines that clean need a good wash.

All those food particles and tiny bacteria that get whisked away from your plates, glasses, and cutlery end up somewhere. And that somewhere isn’t necessarily down the pipes. As you keep using your dishwasher, soap scum, grease, and food can build up inside and cause odour, clog drains, and prevent the machine from doing its job.

Before you go any further in this cleaning journey, be sure to read the manufacturer’s guide to avoid damaging your machine. Next, once you have the all clear, get your trusty white vinegar and baking soda handy, and begin the clean by removing the bottom rack. Inspect the area around the drain and remove any debris. You can use a toothbrush dipped in vinegar to scrub out any food particles in the spray arm’s holes. Remove the filter and give it a rinse with hot water. When you’re happy with the state of the drain, you can replace the filter, arm, and bottom tray.

Place a small bowl filled with vinegar on the upper rack of your empty dishwasher, and run a wash cycle on the hottest setting. Once that cycle is complete, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run another hot wash cycle. The result – a sparkling and fresh dishwasher.

To keep a stainless steel exterior shiny, spray white vinegar onto the surface and wipe it in the direction of the grain with a microfiber cloth.

Most cleaning experts recommend you do this thorough interior clean at least every three months and wipe down the exterior weekly to avoid a grimy build up.

Read our past posts on how to clean your refrigerator, oven, and stovetop.

Pictured here is one of our townhomes at Canopy at Tynehead Park, now selling in Surrey.