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Generic Dishwashers Awful Rotten Smell — How to Deep Clean: How to Fix It Yourself

A smelly dishwasher is almost always caused by trapped food rotting in the filter, door gasket, or spray arms. Dishwashers need periodic cleaning just like any other appliance. A thorough deep clean fixes this in about 30 minutes and costs nothing.

Easy20-40 minutesParts: $0–$5

Tools Needed

Old toothbrushWhite vinegarBaking sodaDish soapTowels

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⚠️ Safety First

  • Never mix vinegar and bleach — the combination creates toxic gas.
  • Run the dishwasher empty during cleaning cycles (no dishes).

Before You Start

Parts You May Need

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Step-by-Step Repair

  1. Step 1 of 6
    1

    Clean the filter

    Pull out the bottom rack. Find the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher — it's usually a round mesh cylinder that twists out. Remove it and clean it under hot running water with dish soap and a toothbrush. Scrub off all the food gunk. This is almost always the main source of the smell.

  2. Step 2 of 6
    2

    Clean the door gasket

    Wipe down the rubber seal around the door with a cloth soaked in vinegar. Pull the gasket back gently and clean the groove behind it — food and black mold love to hide there. Use a toothbrush to scrub any stubborn buildup.

  3. Step 3 of 6
    3

    Clean the spray arms

    Remove the spray arms (they usually twist or unclip off). Check the small holes in each arm — they get clogged with food and mineral deposits. Use a toothpick to poke out any blockages. Rinse under running water.

  4. Step 4 of 6
    4

    Check the drain area

    With the filter removed, look into the sump area at the bottom. Remove any food debris, broken glass, or labels you see. Wipe it clean. If your dishwasher connects to a garbage disposal, run the disposal to make sure the drain line is clear.

  5. Step 5 of 6
    5

    Run a vinegar cleaning cycle

    Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack. Run the hottest cycle with the dishwasher empty. The vinegar breaks down grease, dissolves mineral buildup, and kills bacteria.

  6. Step 6 of 6
    6

    Follow up with baking soda

    After the vinegar cycle finishes, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot cycle. This deodorizes and removes any remaining stains. Your dishwasher should smell fresh now. Repeat this cleaning monthly to prevent odor from returning.

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If That Didn't Work

  • Standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher (drain issue) breeds bacteria.
  • A clogged air gap or drain hose can trap food and water.
  • Running cycles at low temperatures doesn't kill bacteria — use hot water cycles periodically.

When to Call a Professional

If the smell persists after a thorough deep clean, there may be a clog in the drain line or a failing drain pump holding dirty water. A plumber or appliance tech can snake the drain line for about $100.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.

If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.

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