How to Clean Your Samsung Dishwasher Quickly (6 Steps)

You’ve just unloaded your dishwasher and noticed a strange smell lingering inside. Plates seem less shiny, and tiny food bits cling stubbornly. It happens to the best of us. Samsung dishwashers are great machines, but even the best need a little love. Cleaning it properly can save time, avoid odors, and make dishes sparkle again. Here’s a simple guide to get your dishwasher fresh and spotless.

Key Takeaways: Start by removing and rinsing the filter carefully to prevent clogging. Wipe the interior walls and door seals with a soft cloth. Check and clean spray arms to remove stuck debris. Run a cycle with dishwasher-safe cleaner or vinegar. Clean the detergent dispenser to avoid buildup. Regularly inspect and clean the drain. Wipe the exterior to maintain shine. Repeat every month to keep the dishwasher running efficiently.

Remove and Clean the Filter

The filter in a Samsung dishwasher collects all the food scraps, and over time, it can get clogged. Imagine running water through a coffee filter filled with old coffee grounds—it just won’t work right. Take the filter out carefully, rinse it under warm water, and use a soft brush to scrub away stubborn bits. You might be surprised at how much gunk hides there.

After cleaning, check the surrounding area inside the dishwasher for debris. Tiny bits of food can stick around and cause odors if ignored. While removing the filter, make sure not to lose any small screws or parts. Some models have a mesh filter and a cylinder filter; clean both thoroughly.

A tip I like is soaking the filter in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes if it looks really grimy. It softens hardened particles and makes scrubbing easier. After scrubbing, rinse it well, dry lightly, and put it back securely. A loose filter can block water flow and reduce cleaning efficiency.

Regular filter cleaning not only keeps the dishwasher fresh but also prevents poor washing performance. Doing it once a month can save a lot of frustration. You’ll notice dishes coming out cleaner and fewer food particles left behind.

• Remove the filter carefully
• Rinse under warm water
• Scrub stubborn debris
• Check surrounding area
• Soak if needed
• Reinsert securely

Clean the Spray Arms

Spray arms are like the dishwasher’s little water jets. Over time, tiny food pieces can clog their holes, reducing water pressure. Picture watering a plant with a blocked nozzle—it just won’t spread evenly. Remove the spray arms gently, twist or pull according to your model, and rinse each hole with warm water. A toothpick works well for stubborn clogs.

Check for cracks or damage while cleaning; damaged spray arms affect washing quality. Soaking them in vinegar for 15 minutes can dissolve mineral buildup. After rinsing, rotate them by hand to ensure they spin freely. Smooth spinning means water reaches all dishes properly.

When putting them back, align carefully with the mounting slots. A loose arm can wobble or stop spinning. Some people forget this and end up with partially cleaned dishes, which is frustrating. Always double-check rotation before closing the dishwasher.

Doing this every couple of months keeps your Samsung dishwasher spraying strong. It’s a small effort but makes a big difference in spotless dishes. You’ll notice the difference immediately with sparkling clean plates.

• Remove spray arms
• Rinse holes with warm water
• Clear clogs with toothpick
• Soak in vinegar if needed
• Check for damage
• Reinstall securely and test rotation

Wipe Down the Interior and Door Seals

The interior walls and door seals collect grime and detergent residue. Imagine spilling juice in a fridge—it leaves a sticky film. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe all surfaces, including corners. Pay attention to rubber seals, which trap water and crumbs. A toothbrush helps reach tricky edges.

If you notice mold or mildew, make a gentle solution of vinegar and water to clean it. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the seal. Wiping after each cycle can also prevent buildup. I sometimes run a paper towel along the seals after unloading dishes to catch moisture.

Regular wiping prevents odors from forming and keeps the interior looking new. It also protects the dishwasher from long-term damage. Think of it as giving your machine a quick spa treatment every few weeks. Small daily habits save big cleaning sessions later.

Don’t forget the door edges and corners—they hide grime easily. A little attention here ensures your dishwasher smells fresh every time you open it.

• Wipe walls and seals
• Use a soft cloth or toothbrush
• Apply vinegar solution if needed
• Wipe door edges and corners
• Dry surfaces after cleaning

Run a Cleaning Cycle

Running a cleaning cycle removes buildup that you can’t reach by hand. Some Samsung models have a self-clean function. If yours doesn’t, use a dishwasher-safe cleaner or a cup of white vinegar on the top rack. It helps dissolve grease, limescale, and odors during a hot cycle.

Make sure the dishwasher is empty before running this cycle. Adding a cup of baking soda to the bottom afterward can brighten the interior and remove lingering smells. I like doing this once a month to keep my dishwasher fresh. It’s like hitting a reset button.

Check that water jets reach all areas during the cycle. If you notice any leaks or unusual sounds, pause and inspect the machine. Proper cleaning cycles prolong the life of your dishwasher and prevent clogs. Think of it as routine maintenance for your appliances.

After the cycle, wipe the interior to remove any remaining residue. Open the door for a while to let the steam escape and avoid moisture buildup. Small steps like these prevent mold and odors.

• Run self-clean or vinegar cycle
• Keep dishwasher empty
• Add baking soda for extra freshness
• Check jets and sounds
• Wipe interior after cycle
• Let steam escape

Clean the Detergent Dispenser

The detergent dispenser can get gunky with leftover detergent or rinse aid. Imagine powder clumping in a spoon—it just won’t release properly. Open the dispenser and remove any visible buildup. Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub corners carefully.

Check the spring mechanism to ensure it opens smoothly. A sticky dispenser can block detergent release, leaving dishes dirty. Some people overlook this, but it’s critical for washing performance. Run the dishwasher empty afterward to test.

I’ve noticed that using liquid detergent can sometimes reduce buildup, but powder leaves more residue. Whichever you use, cleaning the dispenser every month avoids surprises. You’ll love not finding detergent caked on the door after every wash.

Finally, close the dispenser and double-check it locks securely. You don’t want it popping open mid-cycle and ruining your dishes. Smooth operation means detergent is delivered at the right time for perfect cleaning.

• Open and inspect dispenser
• Remove buildup with brush
• Check spring mechanism
• Test empty cycle
• Re-secure after cleaning

Wipe and Maintain the Exterior

The exterior may not seem important, but fingerprints, grease, and spills make it look dirty. Stainless steel models show every smudge. Use a damp microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner to wipe the front, handles, and buttons. Avoid harsh scrubbing that scratches the surface.

Pay attention to the control panel and knobs. Sticky buttons can interfere with operation. A small cotton swab works well for corners and edges. Keeping the exterior clean also prevents dirt from getting inside during daily use.

Regular maintenance of the exterior makes your kitchen look neat and extends appliance life. I like wiping mine after unloading dishes each day—it takes seconds but keeps it sparkling. Consider it part of your routine tidying habit.

Finally, don’t forget the sides and top if exposed. Dust and grease settle there over time. A quick wipe during monthly deep cleaning keeps your dishwasher looking brand new.

• Wipe front, handles, buttons
• Use microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner
• Clean corners with cotton swab
• Include top and sides
• Maintain regularly for shine

Final Thoughts

Cleaning a Samsung dishwasher is easier than most people think. From filters to spray arms, a few minutes of care keeps it running efficiently. Small steps like wiping seals, cleaning dispensers, and running vinegar cycles prevent odors and clogs. Doing this regularly saves time, protects your dishes, and prolongs appliance life. A little attention goes a long way in keeping your kitchen sparkling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to use vinegar in my Samsung dishwasher?

Yes, vinegar is safe for cleaning and removing odors. Place a cup on the top rack and run a hot cycle. It dissolves mineral buildup and helps freshen the interior. Avoid pouring directly into the detergent compartment. Using vinegar monthly prevents limescale and keeps spray arms clear. Many people notice improved washing results after a vinegar cycle. Always rinse afterward and wipe any residue to keep surfaces spotless.

Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?

Bleach is not recommended, especially for stainless steel interiors. It can damage seals and cause corrosion. Instead, use vinegar or a dishwasher-safe cleaner. If you need heavy sanitizing, a mild detergent with hot water works safely. Using bleach may also void your warranty. Stick to gentle options to maintain your dishwasher’s lifespan and avoid unwanted damage.

Do I need to remove the racks every time I clean?

Not always, but removing racks makes cleaning easier. You can access filters, spray arms, and corners more thoroughly. It also helps when wiping the interior walls. If the racks are cumbersome, you can clean around them carefully, but a monthly deep clean with racks removed gives the best results. Always remember to slide them back correctly to avoid misalignment.

Is it necessary to clean the dishwasher every month?

Monthly cleaning is highly recommended. It prevents odors, clogs, and poor washing performance. Skipping too long can lead to hard-to-remove buildup in filters, spray arms, and seals. Even a quick wipe and filter rinse counts. Regular maintenance ensures dishes come out sparkling and prolongs the machine’s life.

Can I run the dishwasher empty for cleaning?

Yes, running an empty cycle with vinegar or a cleaner is ideal. It removes buildup from areas water alone can’t reach. Add a cup of vinegar on the top rack and optionally sprinkle baking soda on the bottom. Avoid loading dishes during this cleaning to let the solution work effectively. This method keeps your dishwasher fresh and prevents odors.

Do I need special tools to clean spray arms?

No special tools are required. A toothpick or small brush works well to clear clogged holes. Warm water and vinegar help dissolve mineral deposits. Some people use a soft cloth for wiping the exterior of the arms. Checking movement manually ensures spray arms rotate freely for effective cleaning.

Is wiping the exterior really necessary?

Yes, wiping keeps the machine looking clean and prevents grease or grime from getting inside. Stainless steel models show smudges easily, so microfiber cloths work best. Cleaning buttons and handles avoids sticky residue that can interfere with operation. Small, regular maintenance keeps your dishwasher neat and prolongs its life.

Can I prevent odor without chemicals?

Absolutely. Regular filter cleaning, wiping seals, and running hot water cycles can prevent odor naturally. Using baking soda at the bottom of the dishwasher absorbs smells. Also, leaving the door slightly open after a cycle helps moisture escape. Combining these habits keeps your dishwasher smelling fresh without strong chemicals.