How to Make Your Dishwasher Last Longer
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide
A well-maintained dishwasher can last up to 10 years or more! Follow these expert-backed tips to keep it running efficiently and cleaning effectively for years to come.
1. Scrape, Don’t Rinse
- Remove bones, toothpicks, and solid debris to prevent clogs and pump damage.
- Skip pre-rinsing; modern dishwashers are designed to handle dirty dishes.
2. Clean the Filter Regularly
- How: Remove the bottom rack, unscrew the filter, and rinse under warm water.
- Frequency: Monthly, or more often if dishes feel gritty.
- Tip: Replace damaged filters immediately to prevent pump damage.
3. Wipe the Door Seal
- Use white vinegar and a cloth to clean the rubber door seal as needed.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach wipes, or scouring pads to prevent damage.
4. Remove Hard-Water Residue
- Use a citric-acid-based cleaner (e.g., Affresh or Finish) monthly to clear mineral buildup.
- For hard-water areas, add regeneration salt to your dishwasher's water-softening system to prevent spotting and mineral accumulation.
5. Check Spray Arms
- Inspect spray nozzles every few months and remove food debris with a toothpick or pipe cleaner.
- Remove spray arms to clean if necessary, using a screwdriver for the upper arm.
6. Rustproof Racks
- Repair worn plastic coatings with vinyl paint or replacement tine tips to avoid corrosion.
- Prevent rust flakes from damaging the pump and causing expensive repairs.
7. Avoid Overloading
- Overloading restricts water spray and prevents proper cleaning.
- Running partial loads frequently also wears out mechanical parts prematurely.
8. Stick to Dishes Only
- Don’t wash greasy car parts, waxy candlesticks, or other non-dish items.
- Non-food debris can clog filters, damage pumps, and reduce performance.
3 Top-Rated Reliable Dishwashers
Bosch – Excellent cleaning and long-lasting reliability.
Miele – Known for superior engineering and durability.
LG – High efficiency and consistent performance.
Cleaning Tip: Wash Your Dishwasher!
- Food particles and grease can build up over time, causing odors.
- Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar every few months to keep it fresh.
