Dishwashers are arguably one of the best inventions of modern man. It does a much-hated chore for us in our stead. As such, we use it every day, loading it up at night and emptying it in the morning.Â
Besides, experts claim that a dishwasher is much more sanitary than washing it by hand. It does so by using warm water to get rid of all germs. At any rate, we need to learn the best practices to keep it clean and running so that we can continue to rely on it in the future.Â
As such, we need to find answers to ‘How To Clean KitchenAid Dishwasher’. Not only that, but we also need to learn what maintenance means when it comes to dishwashers. Fortunately, it’s not rocket science. With some basic knowledge and a reliable repair service by your side, you can learn how to keep it running smooth for years.Â
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Since the job of the dishwasher is to clean, many of us tend to underestimate the importance of keeping it clean. The filter in the dishwasher is very important as it traps the left behind food particles and keeps it from clogging the pump. Cleaning the kitchen aid dishwasher monthly is ideal.
To clean the filter system:
- Locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher tub
- Twist it counterclockwise to unlock and remove it
- Separate the upper and lower filter assembly if applicable
- Rinse both parts under warm water
- For stubborn debris, soak the filters in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes
- Gently scrub with a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well)
- Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling
The spray arms distribute water throughout the dishwasher and can become blocked with mineral deposits or food particles. To maintain them:
- Remove each spray arm carefully (refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions)
- Check for blockages in the small holes
- Use a toothpick or thin wire to clear any clogs
- Rinse under warm water
- Reinstall, ensuring they rotate freely
Door gaskets and seals prevent water leaking during operation and need regular attention:
- Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Pay special attention to folds and crevices where mold can grow
- Never use harsh chemicals that can damage the rubber material
Your dishwasher’s interior also needs periodic Kitchenaid dishwasher cleaner treatments to remove buildup and odors.
Optimal Loading and Operation
Using the right detergent and rinse aid:
- Choose high-quality detergents specifically formulated for dishwashers
- Never use regular dish soap, which creates excessive suds and can damage components
- Add rinse aid to the designated dispenser to prevent water spots and enhance drying
Loading techniques for maximum cleaning efficiency:
- Scrape large food particles from dishes before loading (pre-rinsing isn’t necessary with modern dishwashers)
- Position items at angles to allow water to drain properly
- Place cups, glasses, and lightweight plastic items on the top rack, face down
- Load plates and larger items on the bottom rack with soiled surfaces facing the center
- Separate silverware items to prevent nesting, with some handles up and some down
- Avoid overcrowding to ensure water and detergent reach all surfaces
- Keep the center spray tower unblocked for proper water circulation
Water temperature and cycle selection:
- Ensure your water heater is set to deliver water at approximately 120°F
- Run hot water at your kitchen sink before starting the dishwasher to purge cold water from pipes
- Select appropriate cycles based on soil level:
- Light/Quick Wash for lightly soiled loads
- Normal for regular everyday loads
- Heavy/Pots & Pans for baked-on food and heavily soiled items
Energy-efficient practices:
- Run full loads whenever possible to maximize water and energy efficiency
- Use air-dry options instead of heated dry when time permits
- Run the dishwasher during off-peak electricity hours if your utility offers time-of-use rates
- Consider using the delay start feature to run overnight when water pressure is typically higher
Kitchen aid dishwasher cleaning happens naturally during normal cycles when you load properly. The machine’s design relies on correct loading patterns to reach all surfaces with spray patterns.Â
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1- Dishes Not Coming Clean
If your dishes aren’t getting clean, check these common culprits:
- Clogged spray arms: Remove and clean them as described in the maintenance section
- Improper loading: Rearrange dishes to ensure water can reach all surfaces
- Filter system blockage: Clean the filter system thoroughly
- Water temperature too low: Ensure incoming water is around 120°F
- Incorrect detergent amount: Adjust based on water hardness and load soil level
- Detergent dispenser issues: Check for blockages preventing proper opening
2- Poor Drying Results
When dishes come out wet:
- Add rinse aid: If the rinse aid dispenser is empty, fill it up.
- Use heated dry option: Select this cycle option for better drying
- Improve loading technique: Space items properly to allow better airflow
- Check water temperature: Ensure it’s hot enough for effective cleaning and drying
- Unload bottom rack first: Prevents water from top items dripping onto dry lower items
3- Unusual Noises
Different noises indicate specific problems:
Noise Type |
Possible Cause |
Solution |
| Grinding | Hard food particles in pump | Clean filter and inspect pump area |
| Clicking | Spray arm hitting dishes | Adjust the load to provide clearance |
| Humming | Normal water drain sound | No action needed |
| Thumping | Detergent dispenser opening | Normal operation sound |
4- Drainage Problems
When water remains in the tub:
- Clear the drain filter: Remove and clean thoroughly
- Check drain hose: Look for kinks or blockages
- Inspect air gap (if installed): Clean any debris
- Verify garbage disposal connection: If recently installed, ensure knockout plug was removed
- Examine drain pump: Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate obstruction
Many issues stem from inadequately cleaning kitchen aid dishwasher components regularly.Â
Remember that some problems may indicate normal operation. For example, newer, energy-efficient models run longer cycles but use less water and electricity. A cycle that seems too long might simply reflect your dishwasher’s energy-saving design.
Professional Maintenance
When to call professionals
- Your dishwasher makes unusual noises that persist after cleaning the filters and spray arms
- Water doesn’t drain completely despite troubleshooting steps
- The control panel displays error codes you can’t resolve
- You notice water leaking from under the dishwasher
- The machine doesn’t fill properly or doesn’t fill at all
- Dishes consistently come out dirty despite proper loading and cleaning
- The door doesn’t latch correctly or shows signs of damage
- You detect burning smells during operation
Benefits of annual professional service
- Deep cleaning of internal components: Technicians can disassemble and clean parts not accessible to homeowners
- Comprehensive inspection: Professional eyes spot potential problems before they cause breakdowns
- Electrical system checks: Testing for proper voltage and current can prevent electrical failures
- Seal and gasket evaluation: Early replacement of worn seals prevents water damage to your kitchen
- Water supply inspection: Identifying mineral buildup or hose deterioration prevents future leaks
- Performance calibration: Adjustments to spray pressure and water temperature optimize cleaning power
Professional service typically includes
- Thorough inspection of all visible components
- Testing of electrical connections and safety features
- Examination of water inlet and drain systems
- Lubrication of moving parts when necessary
- Cleaning of internal components not accessible to homeowners
- Software updates if applicable to your model
Remember that even with excellent DIY Kitchen aid dishwasher cleaning habits, professional service adds a layer of protection and expertise. Think of it as preventive medicine for your appliance, the regular checkup that catches small issues before they become expensive problems. The cost of annual maintenance is typically far less than emergency repairs or premature replacement.
Bottom Line
Learning how to clean kitchen aid dishwashers is more than just about keeping it in a working condition. Rather, the focus is on ensuring that it is in the best condition, thus protecting your investment.Â
Moreover, it has the added benefit of working towards a sustainable environment. So, when your Kitchenaid dishwasher cleaner needs professional help, be sure to get in touch with CLT Appliance Repair. We have a team of expert technicians who can provide specialized services.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my KitchenAid dishwasher filter?
You should clean the filter of your dishwasher at least once a month. If you use it daily or have hard water problems, then you might want to increase it to once every two weeks.
Is it okay to use bleach to clean my dishwasher interior?
It’s neither safe nor necessary to use bleach in the dishwasher. It might also damage the stainless steel parts of your dishwasher. If you feel the need, try white vinegar.
Why does my dishwasher smell bad?
A dishwasher is not supposed to smell bad. If it does, the cause might be due to trapped food particles. You might want to try cleaning it thoroughly and running an empty cycle with vinegar.
Author
- John Bennett is a seasoned appliance repair specialist at CLT Appliance Repair, where he brings over a decade of technical expertise and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. With a background in electrical and mechanical systems, John has built a reputation for reliable, efficient, and honest repair services across a wide range of household appliances-including refrigerators, washing machines, ovens, and more.
