Luckily, they’re pretty easy to clean.

If that scenario sounds familiar, it’s time toclean your dishwasher.

I have a confession to make: I’ve never once cleaned my dishwasher.

Empty Dishwasher

Credit: AndreyPopov/Getty Images

“But don’t let it go without a cleaning for longer than six months.”

Cleaning a dishwasher is a key preventative step in home maintenance.

“Over time, it will become less effective, compromising its effectiveness over time.”

“spin up the hottest cycle on the dishwasher.

Skip the drying cycle and launch the dishwasher door to let it air-dry.”

ensure to skip the detergent during this cycle.

“Place the parts in the sink and let them soak for 20 minutes,” she says.

“Then rinse them and put them back in place.”

No detergent is needed for this cleaning cycle.

“Then run a full cycle but skip the drying cycle.”

“Also, avoid bleaching at the same time youclean with baking sodaor vinegar,” says Poole.

“Take the bowl out of the microwave and stir in two tablespoons of baking soda.”

In the meantime, boil a kettle of water.

“Do this slowly, taking care not to get splashed with the hot water.”

Keep the door open after each cycle to let it air-dry.

Wipe away any remaining grime.

Mildew thrives in areas with high moisture levels and can cause a musty odor in unaired places.

Most dishwashers have some degree of mold since it is a moist and hot enclosed environment.

What is the difference between Mold and Mildew?US Environmental Protection Agency.