How to Clean a Dishwasher (Filters, Film and Odour)

A dishwasher that washes dishes still needs its own clean — it slowly collects grease film, limescale and the damp musty odour that clings to filters and seals. When dishes come out less clean than they should, or the machine smells, the root cause is usually that build-up, not a broken machine. This guide covers the two-step routine: filter care plus a monthly cleaner tablet.

Empty and rinse the filter

Most dishwashers have a filter at the bottom that traps food. Rinse it under the tap when it collects debris — this is the physical step a tablet can't replace, and it alone fixes many smell and performance issues.

Run a monthly cleaner tablet

A dishwasher cleaner (like Glisten, Affresh or Finish) dissolves during a hot, empty cycle to strip the grease film, limescale and odour-causing residue you can't reach. One tablet a month is the standard maintenance dose — run the machine empty so the chemistry doesn't fight a load of dishes.

Wipe the door seal and gasket

The rubber gasket holds moisture and quick odours. Wipe it dry from time to time and keep it free of visible food debris; this complements the deep-clean tablet.

Hard-water areas, more often

If you see white limescale film or your water is visibly hard, you may need the cleaner more than monthly. Watch the white film inside the tub as your guide.