Fish is a great source of protein, and cooking it in the dishwasher can be a convenient way to prepare a meal. But what do you do when the dishwasher starts to stink like fish? Fortunately, there are several methods to get rid of that lingering smell.
Firstly, it’s important to know that the smell is caused by bacteria that thrive in moist environments. The heat and humidity of a dishwasher provide the perfect environment for these bacteria to grow and release odors. Therefore, it’s crucial to address the root of the problem before trying to eliminate the smell.
Thankfully, there are several proven methods that can help get rid of the fishy smell in your dishwasher. From using white vinegar and baking soda to activated charcoal, we’ve compiled a list of five effective techniques to help you get your dishwasher smelling fresh again. So, if you’re tired of your dishwasher smelling like a fish market, read on to learn how to get rid of that unpleasant odor.
Keep reading to learn how to eliminate the fishy smell from your dishwasher with these five effective methods.
Table of Contents
Use White Vinegar And Baking Soda
The combination of white vinegar and baking soda is an effective way to eliminate fishy smells from your dishwasher. White vinegar is an excellent odor absorber, while baking soda is an effective cleaner. When combined, they can remove any traces of fish odor from your dishwasher.
To start, remove any visible debris from the dishwasher. Then, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle on the dishwasher without any dishes or detergent. This will allow the vinegar to circulate throughout the dishwasher, effectively removing any lingering odors.
Next, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run another hot water cycle on the dishwasher, again without any dishes or detergent. The baking soda will act as a scrubbing agent, effectively cleaning and deodorizing the dishwasher.
Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and let it air dry. This will allow any remaining odor to dissipate naturally. Repeat this process as necessary until the fishy odor is completely gone.
Combine White Vinegar And Baking Soda Mixture
Mix the vinegar and baking soda: Start by mixing one cup of white vinegar with one cup of baking soda in a bowl. Stir until you have a smooth paste.
Spread the mixture inside your dishwasher: Take the paste and spread it all around the inside of the dishwasher, making sure you cover all the surfaces, including the door and the corners.
Leave it for a few hours: Let the mixture sit for at least two hours to give it time to penetrate the surfaces of your dishwasher and neutralize the fishy smell.
Wipe the mixture off: After the two hours have passed, take a damp cloth or sponge and wipe the mixture off the surfaces of your dishwasher.
Run a hot cycle: After you’ve wiped everything down, run a hot cycle on your dishwasher to rinse away any remaining vinegar or baking soda residue.
Repeat if necessary: If the fishy smell is still present, repeat the process until it’s gone.
Using a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda is a safe and effective way to remove fishy smells from your dishwasher. This method is inexpensive, easy to use, and you probably have these ingredients in your kitchen right now. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh-smelling dishwasher once again!
Run The Dishwasher On A Hot Water Cycle
- Prep the dishwasher: Before starting the hot water cycle, remove any debris or visible food particles from the dishwasher.
- Select hot water: Set the dishwasher to run on a hot water cycle. Hot water is effective in removing the fishy smell from the dishwasher.
- Run the dishwasher: Start the dishwasher and let it run through the hot water cycle. Make sure that no dishes or utensils are inside the dishwasher during this process.
- Check for lingering odors: After the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and check if there are still any lingering odors. If the smell persists, you may need to try additional cleaning methods.
Running the dishwasher on a hot water cycle can be an effective way to eliminate the fishy odor from your dishwasher. This is because hot water can effectively break down and dissolve any residual fish particles or oils that may be causing the smell. Follow these simple steps to get the most out of this cleaning method.
Utilize Lemon Juice And Salt
Another effective method to get rid of fish smell from your dishwasher is by using lemon juice and salt. The acidic nature of lemon juice helps in neutralizing any lingering odors, while the abrasive texture of salt helps in scrubbing away any residue.
To use this method, start by cutting a lemon in half and sprinkle some salt on the cut side. Rub the lemon and salt mixture over the interior of the dishwasher, paying extra attention to the areas with strong odors. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with hot water.
You can also use lemon juice and salt as a pre-wash treatment for your dishes. Simply sprinkle some salt on your dishes, then pour lemon juice over them and let it sit for a few minutes before washing as usual.
Note that this method may not be suitable for dishwashers with stainless steel interiors, as the acid in the lemon juice can cause discoloration or other damage over time.
Make A Lemon Juice And Salt Solution
Lemon juice is a great natural cleaner and deodorizer, making it an effective solution for getting rid of fish smell in your dishwasher. Salt, on the other hand, has antibacterial properties that can help eliminate the odor-causing bacteria.
To make a lemon juice and salt solution, mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 1 cup of water and ½ cup of salt in a bowl. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves completely.
Once the solution is ready, pour it into a spray bottle and spray it inside the dishwasher, focusing on areas with the most buildup. Allow the solution to sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping it with a clean cloth. Then, run a hot water cycle to rinse the dishwasher thoroughly.
Alternatively, you can also pour the solution directly into the bottom of the dishwasher and let it sit for a few hours before running a hot water cycle. This will allow the solution to penetrate all the corners and crevices of the dishwasher, eliminating the fishy smell completely.
Run The Dishwasher On A Hot Water Cycle
After preparing the lemon juice and salt solution, pour it into the dishwasher’s detergent dispenser, then run a hot water cycle. This will help to activate the lemon juice and salt solution, breaking down any remaining fishy odor-causing particles that might be stuck on the dishwasher’s interior walls or in the filters. The hot water will also help to sanitize the interior of the dishwasher, removing any bacteria and germs that might have built up over time.
Remember to remove any dishes or utensils from the dishwasher before running the hot water cycle. After the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher to let it air out and dry completely. Doing this will ensure that no moisture remains inside the dishwasher, which can cause mildew and mold growth and result in unpleasant odors.
Place Lemon Slices In The Dishwasher
Another way to use lemon juice to get rid of fishy odor from your dishwasher is by placing lemon slices in the machine. The citric acid in the lemons acts as a natural deodorizer and removes the unpleasant smell.
To use this method, cut a fresh lemon into thin slices and place them on the top rack of the dishwasher. Make sure to distribute the slices evenly and do not overcrowd the rack. Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle, and the lemon slices will release their fragrance and eliminate the fishy smell.
Try Activated Charcoal
If you’re looking for a more natural way to eliminate fishy smells from your dishwasher, activated charcoal is an excellent option.
Activated charcoal is highly porous and can absorb impurities and odors. It works by trapping the odors inside its pores, leaving your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
You can purchase activated charcoal in various forms, including powder, granules, or even in bags.
To use activated charcoal, simply place a small amount in a bowl or on a plate and put it in the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on a hot cycle, and the charcoal will work its magic to remove any unwanted smells.
Place Activated Charcoal In The Dishwasher
If you want to try using activated charcoal to remove odors from your dishwasher, you can do so by placing it in a dish or a small container on the top rack of the dishwasher.
Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb and trap odors and impurities, making it a popular choice for removing unpleasant smells in various settings. When used in the dishwasher, it can help eliminate any lingering smells that may be present.
Make sure to use food-grade activated charcoal for this purpose and replace it every month or so for best results. You can purchase activated charcoal at health food stores, online retailers, or specialty shops.
Use Bleach With Caution
Bleach is a powerful cleaner that can be used to clean and disinfect various surfaces, including your dishwasher. However, it should be used with caution, as it can damage some materials and create harmful fumes.
If you choose to use bleach, be sure to dilute it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and wear gloves and protective eyewear. Do not mix bleach with other cleaners or chemicals, as this can create dangerous reactions.
Before using bleach in your dishwasher, check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it is safe to do so. Some dishwashers may have components that are not compatible with bleach.
If you decide to use bleach, only use it occasionally, and be sure to thoroughly rinse your dishwasher after running it on a bleach cycle.
Mix Bleach With Water
Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, but it can also be dangerous if not used properly. To use bleach to clean your dishwasher, it’s important to mix it with water. This will help dilute the bleach and prevent any damage to your dishwasher.
To create the solution, you should mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water. Be sure to use gloves and protective eyewear when mixing the solution, and avoid inhaling the fumes.
Once you’ve mixed the solution, you can pour it into the bottom of your dishwasher and run a hot water cycle. This will help disinfect and deodorize your dishwasher, leaving it sparkling clean.
It’s important to note that bleach should only be used as a last resort, and only on dishwashers that are made of materials that can withstand it. Be sure to read your dishwasher’s manual before using bleach, and follow all safety precautions carefully.
Run The Dishwasher On A Short Cycle
If you have used bleach to clean your dishwasher, it is essential to run the machine on a short cycle afterward. Doing so will ensure that all bleach residues are removed from the dishwasher and prevent any damage to your dishes in the future.
A short cycle typically runs for about 30 minutes and is designed to provide a quick wash for your dishes. It is an excellent option if you have lightly soiled dishes that do not require a heavy-duty wash.
When running a short cycle, make sure that the water temperature is high enough to kill any bacteria on your dishes. Most short cycles use hot water that is heated to around 140°F (60°C).
Utilize Dishwasher Cleaner
If you have tried all the other methods and your dishwasher is still smelling bad, it is time to consider using a dishwasher cleaner.
Dishwasher cleaners are specially formulated to clean and remove any buildup in your dishwasher. They are available in liquid, powder, and tablet forms.
Before using a dishwasher cleaner, make sure to read the instructions carefully. Some cleaners may require you to run the dishwasher empty, while others may need to be added to a regular cycle.
It is important to note that some dishwasher cleaners may contain harsh chemicals, so be sure to handle them with care. Always wear gloves and follow the safety instructions.
Using a dishwasher cleaner once every few months can help keep your dishwasher clean and smelling fresh. It is an easy and effective way to prevent bad odors from taking over your kitchen.
Pour Dishwasher Cleaner In The Detergent Cup
If your dishwasher needs a deeper clean, try using a dishwasher cleaner. Dishwasher cleaners are designed to clean your dishwasher’s interior, including hard-to-reach places like the spray arms, filters, and pipes.
To use a dishwasher cleaner, start with an empty dishwasher. Pour the cleaner into the detergent cup or directly onto the bottom of the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle possible to get the best results.
Most dishwasher cleaners are safe to use on any dishwasher brand or model, but always check the label to be sure. Some cleaners may require you to remove any dishes and racks before use.
Using a dishwasher cleaner can help remove mineral buildup and eliminate odors. If your dishwasher has been experiencing problems like poor cleaning performance or unusual smells, a dishwasher cleaner may be just what you need to get it back to its best.
Remember to use dishwasher cleaner only as directed on the label. Avoid contact with skin and eyes, and keep the cleaner out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes fish smell in a dishwasher?
There are several reasons why your dishwasher may start to smell like fish, including leftover food particles and bacteria buildup in the dishwasher.
How can you prevent fish smell in a dishwasher?
To prevent fish smell in your dishwasher, it’s important to scrape off all the leftover food debris from the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, and run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle. You can also use lemon slices or activated charcoal to absorb any odor.
How do you remove fish smell from a dishwasher?
To remove fish smell from a dishwasher, you can use a mixture of bleach and water, or dishwasher cleaner. Alternatively, you can try running the dishwasher on a short cycle with vinegar or baking soda.
Is it safe to use bleach to remove fish smell from a dishwasher?
Bleach is effective in removing fish smell from a dishwasher, but it should be used with caution. Always dilute the bleach with water before using, and avoid using it with any other cleaning products that contain ammonia, as it can produce toxic fumes.
How does activated charcoal remove fish smell from a dishwasher?
Activated charcoal is an odor-absorbing agent that can help remove fish smell from a dishwasher. It works by attracting and trapping odor-causing molecules, preventing them from spreading in the dishwasher. Simply place a few pieces of activated charcoal in the dishwasher and run it on a hot water cycle.
What are some other natural methods to remove fish smell from a dishwasher?
Aside from using lemon slices and activated charcoal, you can also try running the dishwasher with vinegar or baking soda. Another option is to sprinkle some borax on the bottom of the dishwasher before running a cycle.