Freshening a Dishwasher: Quick Tips
When your kitchen has a foul odor, pinning down the source is usually the first priority. But what can you do when you find your dishwasher is the root of the problem? We’ll detail how to clean a dishwasher filter, tub, and spray arms to banish odor and prevent its return.
Stop Dishwasher Odors Fast.
Need quick, reliable dishwasher repairs? Our expert technicians arrive promptly and restore your appliance to top condition efficiently.
Why Is My Dishwasher Smelling?
Food debris and bacterial buildup cause dishwasher odors. Learn how proper cleaning of filters, spray arms, and tubs can eliminate unpleasant smells.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher Filter
While some model dishwashers have a self-cleaning system, most require regular cleanings based on the number of loads you run per week. Rinsing and/or scraping dishes before loading them can also affect how often you need to clean the filter. Refer to your user manual for the exact recommendations for your model dishwasher and your pre-rinsing practices.
Here’s how to perform an LG dishwasher filter cleaning:
- Remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack.
- Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise.
- Take out the filter by lifting upwards, removing the stainless steel mesh filter as well.
- Rinse the filters under warm running water, scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive cloth or brush as needed.
- Replace the stainless steel mesh filter, followed by the cylindrical filter. Twist the filter clockwise to lock in place.
Dishwasher Tub Cleaning Tips
Food particles that stick to tub walls and in crevices can also result in an LG dishwasher that smells bad.
Follow these steps to clean the tub using basic white vinegar:
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl.
- Place the bowl in the top rack of an empty dishwasher.
- Run a Machine Clean cycle. If your dishwasher doesn’t have this cycle, run a Normal wash cycle.
Commercial dishwasher cleaners are also effective at removing dishwasher tub odor. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for your specific cleaner and run a Machine Clean or Normal wash cycle.
Cleaning Dishwasher Spray Arms
How often you clean the spray arms also depends on how much you pre-wash your dishes prior to loading. Rinsing and scraping dishes before loading may mean you only need to clean the spray arms every six months. No pre-washing may require bi-monthly cleanings.
Here’s how to clean the spray arms quickly and effectively:
- Remove the lower spray arm by lifting upward. Unscrew the upper spray arm by turning the nut counterclockwise and pulling down.
- Use a pin or sharp metal tool to dislodge any visible particles that are trapped in spray armholes.
- Run the spray arms under running water, making sure water flows freely through the holes.
- Replace the bottom spray arm by pushing down until it locks into place. Twist the upper spray arm’s nut clockwise to secure it in place.
If your dishwasher has a top spray arm, it can be disassembled by removing the hook from the bracket. After rinsing, make sure the retainer clip is engaged when replacing.
Prevent Dishwasher Odors
Performing regular cleanings with the above methods can help prevent LG dishwasher smells.
These additional tips can also help avoid odor:
- Clean the tub on a monthly basis.
- Only use dishwasher detergent in the dishwasher dispenser and follow the manufacturer-recommended amounts.
- If you don’t run the dishwasher on a daily basis, run a rinse cycle to remove lingering food particles in between cleanings.
While knowing how to clean an LG dishwasher can help prevent odor, sometimes repairs are unavoidable. When you need a dishwasher repair service, look no further than Lake Appliance Repair.
Precision Appliance & Air Conditioning
Copyright © 2026 Precision Appliance & Air Conditioning - All Rights Reserved.
Louisville's #1 Appliance Repair
🚨 APPLIANCE OR A/C NOT WORKING?
WE’RE READY TO HELP — 24/7 SCHEDULING
Refrigerator not cooling? Washer not draining? Dryer not heating? Dishwasher not cleaning? A/C not cooling?
📞 CALL NOW
502-637-7005
📲 TEXT “SERVICE”
502-677-3030
⚡ 24/7 SCHEDULING • FAST RESPONSE
✔ Local & Family Owned
✔ Experienced Technicians
✔ Limited Same-Day Appointments
✔ Warranty on Repairs
✔ A+ BBB Rated
🔵 DON’T WAIT — APPOINTMENTS FILL FAST!
Serving Louisville & Surrounding Kentucky Areas
WE SHOW UP. WE FIX IT.
This website uses cookies.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.