Household Service Masters

Cleaning guides / Kitchen

Clean the dishwasher and garbage disposal

Filters, spray arms and the source of most kitchen smells.

Time: 20 minutes 4 min read

If dishes come out gritty or the kitchen smells, the dishwasher filter and the disposal are the usual suspects.

Dishwasher

  1. Remove the bottom rack and twist out the filter (see your manual).
  2. Rinse it under hot water and scrub gently with a soft brush.
  3. Check the spray arm holes and clear any blockages with a toothpick.
  4. Wipe the door edges and seals.
  5. Run an empty hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner, or as your manual recommends.

Garbage disposal

  1. Turn it off. Never put your hand inside; use tongs to remove debris.
  2. Pour in a cup of ice and a little dish soap, then run cold water and the disposal.
  3. Scrub the rubber splash guard with a brush and soapy water.
  4. For smells, grind a few citrus peels with cold water.

General cleaning information. Read product labels, test in a hidden spot first, and never mix bleach with ammonia or acids. Household Service Masters isn't paid by any product brand.