Why Does My Whirlpool Dishwasher Smell

Whirlpool dishwashers are known for their reliability and efficiency, but even the best appliances can develop problems over time. One common issue that Whirlpool dishwasher owners face is a bad smell coming from the machine. This can be a frustrating and unpleasant problem, but it’s usually easy to fix. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common causes of a smelly Whirlpool dishwasher and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix the problem.

Common Causes of a Smelly Whirlpool Dishwasher

There are a few common causes of a smelly Whirlpool dishwasher. These include:

• Food particles: Food particles can get trapped in the dishwasher’s filter, drain, or spray arms, where they can decompose and cause a bad smell.
• Grease and oil: Grease and oil from dishes can also build up in the dishwasher, causing a smell.
• Hard water: Hard water can cause mineral deposits to build up in the dishwasher, which can also lead to a bad smell.
• Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew can grow in the dishwasher if it’s not used regularly or if it’s not properly cleaned.
• Detergent: Using the wrong type of detergent or using too much detergent can also cause a bad smell.

How to Fix a Smelly Whirlpool Dishwasher

The following steps will help you fix a smelly Whirlpool dishwasher:

1. Clean the dishwasher’s filter. The dishwasher’s filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, usually near the drain. To clean the filter, remove it from the dishwasher and rinse it with hot water. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn food particles.
2. Clean the dishwasher’s drain. The dishwasher’s drain is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the filter. To clean the drain, pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, rinse the drain with hot water.
3. Clean the dishwasher’s spray arms. The dishwasher’s spray arms are located at the top of the dishwasher, inside the tub. To clean the spray arms, remove them from the dishwasher and rinse them with hot water. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn food particles.
4. Run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner. Dishwasher cleaners are available at most grocery stores and home improvement stores. To use a dishwasher cleaner, simply pour it into the dishwasher’s detergent dispenser and run a hot water cycle.
5. Use the right type of detergent. Using the wrong type of detergent or using too much detergent can cause a bad smell. Be sure to use a detergent that is specifically designed for dishwashers. You should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount of detergent to use.
6. Use a rinse aid. A rinse aid can help to prevent water spots and streaks on dishes. It can also help to reduce the amount of detergent that you need to use.
7. Ventilate the dishwasher. If your dishwasher doesn‘t have a built-in vent, you can open the door after a cycle to let the steam and odors escape.

Conclusion: Maintaining a Clean and Odor-Free Whirlpool Dishwasher

By following these steps, you can fix a smelly Whirlpool dishwasher and keep it smelling fresh and clean. Regular cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to prevent bad smells from developing in your dishwasher. By taking a few simple steps, you can keep your Whirlpool dishwasher running smoothly and smelling fresh for years to come.