How to Clean Your Beko Dishwasher (Quick and Effective Ways)

Do you want your Beko dishwasher to shine like new and smell fresh every day? A dirty dishwasher not only looks bad but also affects cleaning. In this article, you will learn the easiest and most trusted ways to keep your Beko dishwasher spotless. With a few simple moves, your dishes will sparkle and your dishwasher will last longer. Let’s jump right in and make cleaning feel effortless.

How to Clean Your Beko Dishwasher the Right Way

Cleaning the Filter Deeply

The filter is one of the most important parts of your Beko dishwasher. Over time, food scraps, grease, and soap scum collect here. If you ignore it, the dishwasher may not clean well, and bad smells will spread. So, it is very important to clean this part regularly. Luckily, it is not hard at all, and you can do it in a few minutes.

First, open the dishwasher and take out the bottom rack. You will see the filter sitting at the bottom. It usually has a round or cylinder shape that can twist out. Turn it slowly and lift it up. You may notice bits of food or grease stuck inside. That is normal, but it needs to be removed right away.

Next, rinse the filter under warm running water. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away grease. Do not use harsh objects, as they can break the filter. If the dirt is too sticky, you can soak the filter in warm soapy water for ten minutes before scrubbing. This will loosen everything.

After it is clean, put the filter back in its place. Make sure it locks correctly because a loose filter can cause problems. When you keep this part fresh, the water flow improves, and the dishwasher works much better. Regular filter care also stops bad odors.

• Remove the bottom rack first
• Twist and lift the filter gently
• Rinse with warm water and mild soap
• Use a soft brush to scrub grease
• Place it back securely

Wiping the Spray Arms

The spray arms are what shoot water around inside your dishwasher. If they get blocked with food or limescale, your dishes will not be cleaned properly. This is why keeping them clear is very important. The good news is, they are easy to clean and only take a few minutes of your time.

Start by pulling out the bottom rack again. Look for the spray arms under the rack and also the one at the top. Most Beko spray arms can be removed with a gentle twist or pull. Once removed, take a look at the small holes. If they look clogged, water cannot spray through them well.

Hold the spray arms under warm running water. Use a toothpick, needle, or soft brush to gently poke inside the holes. Be careful not to scratch or damage the holes. If limescale is stuck, you can soak the arms in vinegar for a few minutes. This will break down the build-up naturally.

After cleaning, rinse well and dry the arms before putting them back. Make sure they spin freely once reinstalled. Smooth spinning is a good sign that water will flow properly. This small action can make a huge difference in how clean your dishes look.

• Remove spray arms carefully
• Check holes for blockages
• Rinse under warm water
• Use a toothpick or brush for cleaning
• Refit and test spinning movement

Washing the Inside Walls

The inside walls of your Beko dishwasher often collect grease, stains, and soap residue. If you leave it for too long, it can turn into thick grime that smells. Cleaning the inside is not just about looks. It also helps keep your dishwasher running smoothly and prevents hidden bacteria from growing.

Start by removing all racks so you can reach the sides and corners easily. Mix warm water with a bit of mild dish soap in a bowl. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into this mixture. Now gently wipe the walls, door, and corners. Pay special attention to spots with sticky or greasy marks.

For tougher stains, you can use white vinegar. Spray vinegar directly on the dirty areas and leave it for five minutes. Then, wipe with a cloth until the stains disappear. Do not use sharp tools or strong chemicals because they can harm the surface. A soft sponge is enough for most cases.

After cleaning, rinse with plain warm water to remove soap traces. Then, dry the inside with a clean towel. When your dishwasher is dry and shiny inside, it will smell fresh and be ready for the next load. Doing this often keeps it looking almost new.

• Remove racks for easy access
• Use mild soap with warm water
• Wipe walls, door, and corners
• Apply vinegar for strong stains
• Dry with a clean towel after wiping

Caring for the Door Seal

The door seal is a rubber strip that keeps water from leaking out during a wash. Over time, dirt and mold can build up here because it often stays damp. A dirty seal not only looks bad but can also cause leaks or bad smells. Cleaning this part is simple, but very important.

Open the door and look around the rubber seal carefully. You may see black spots, greasy marks, or crumbs hiding in the folds. Use a damp cloth dipped in soapy water to wipe all around. Pull the seal gently so you can reach inside the small gaps. This is where dirt hides most often.

For mold or strong stains, dip a toothbrush in white vinegar and scrub gently. Vinegar is safe and very effective at killing bacteria. Avoid bleach or harsh sprays, as they can damage the rubber. After scrubbing, wipe again with a clean cloth and plain water to remove leftovers.

Finally, dry the seal completely with a towel. Keeping it dry is the best way to stop mold from coming back. You may also leave the dishwasher door slightly open after each wash so air can flow. This keeps the seal fresh and clean longer.

• Inspect seal for dirt and spots
• Wipe with soapy cloth carefully
• Use vinegar for mold and stains
• Rinse and dry with clean towel
• Leave door slightly open after use

Running a Deep Cleaning Cycle

Sometimes wiping and scrubbing are not enough. Your dishwasher needs a deep cleaning cycle to wash hidden parts that you cannot reach by hand. This cycle uses high heat and cleaning solutions to break down grease, limescale, and bacteria inside. It is like giving your Beko dishwasher a spa treatment.

First, make sure the dishwasher is empty. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with white vinegar on the top rack. Run the hottest cycle available. The vinegar will move around during the wash and clean inside areas while also killing odors. When the cycle ends, wipe inside with a dry cloth.

Next, sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot cycle without any dishes. The baking soda will freshen the smell and add extra shine to the inside. You will be surprised how much brighter it looks after this.

You can also use a special dishwasher cleaner from the store if you prefer. Just follow the instructions on the label. Doing this deep clean once a month will keep your dishwasher in top shape. It will also help prevent repair problems in the future.

• Place vinegar bowl on top rack
• Run hottest cycle with empty dishwasher
• Sprinkle baking soda on bottom after
• Run another short hot cycle
• Wipe inside dry with cloth at the end

Keeping the Outside Clean

The outside of your Beko dishwasher is the first thing you see in your kitchen. Fingerprints, grease, and dust make it look dull. Keeping the outside clean gives your kitchen a fresh and tidy look. It only takes a few minutes, but it makes a big difference.

Start with a damp cloth and mild soap. Gently wipe the front door, handle, and sides. If your dishwasher is stainless steel, you may notice streaks. To fix this, use a special stainless steel cleaner or just white vinegar. Wipe along the grain for a smooth finish.

Do not forget the control panel. Use a soft cloth, never a wet sponge, because too much water can damage the buttons. A little vinegar on a cloth works well to remove fingerprints. Keep movements gentle so you do not scratch the surface.

Finally, dry the outside with a clean microfiber towel. This stops water marks and leaves a nice shine. A clean outside not only looks good but also shows you take care of your appliance. It feels satisfying to see it shining every day.

• Wipe door and handle with soapy cloth
• Use vinegar or cleaner for streaks
• Clean control panel gently with cloth
• Always dry with microfiber towel
• Enjoy the shiny, fresh look daily

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Beko dishwasher is easier than it looks, and the rewards are big. By caring for the filter, spray arms, seals, and walls, you keep your machine strong and fresh. Regular deep cleaning also saves you money on repairs and makes every dish sparkle. With just a little effort, your dishwasher will always run smoothly. So, take the time to clean and enjoy the long-lasting results.

Do dishwashers clean themselves or not?

Many people believe dishwashers clean themselves during every cycle, but that is not true. Dishwashers are designed to clean dishes, not themselves. Food scraps, grease, and soap scum often get stuck in hidden corners, filters, and seals. Over time, these areas collect dirt that water alone cannot remove. This is why your dishwasher sometimes smells bad even though it runs daily.

When a dishwasher sprays hot water, it does remove some loose dirt. However, small pieces of food often remain in the filter or clog spray arm holes. These do not get flushed out unless you remove and wash them. That is why the filter and spray arms need regular care. Without cleaning, your dishwasher may struggle to wash dishes properly.

Another reason dishwashers need cleaning is limescale. Hard water leaves white deposits inside, which can reduce performance. Running a normal cycle with dishes does not remove this. Instead, you need vinegar or special cleaners to break it down. If you ignore limescale, it can shorten the life of your machine.

So, while dishwashers are excellent for cleaning your dishes, they do not fully clean themselves. They still need your help. Just a little time spent on care will keep the dishwasher smelling fresh, running efficiently, and lasting much longer. Regular cleaning is not extra work—it is necessary to protect your appliance.

Can vinegar damage a dishwasher?

Vinegar is one of the most common cleaning solutions for dishwashers. It is natural, safe, and very effective at removing grease, odors, and limescale. But many people wonder if using vinegar too often can damage a dishwasher. The truth is, vinegar is safe when used correctly, but there are a few things you should know.

Vinegar is acidic, which makes it powerful for cleaning. When used in small amounts, such as a cup placed in a bowl on the top rack, it works well and causes no harm. It washes through the machine during the cycle and leaves it fresh. However, pouring vinegar directly on rubber seals or leaving it too long may weaken them over time.

Beko dishwashers, like many brands, are built to handle occasional vinegar cleaning. But the key is moderation. Using vinegar once a month is usually enough to keep the dishwasher clean. If you use it every week, the acidity may slowly affect rubber or plastic parts. To be safe, always rinse with plain water after a vinegar wash.

If you want a safer option for frequent cleaning, baking soda is a great choice. It is gentle, non-acidic, and perfect for removing odors. You can use vinegar for deep cleaning and baking soda for weekly freshness. This way, you get the benefits without the risks.

In short, vinegar is safe and very useful for dishwashers, including Beko models. Just use it wisely and avoid overuse. When balanced with other methods, it becomes one of the best natural cleaners for your appliance.

Do dishwashers smell bad if not cleaned?

Yes, dishwashers can smell very bad if they are not cleaned often. The smell usually comes from old food scraps stuck in the filter, spray arms, or door seal. When these pieces rot, bacteria grow, and the odor spreads through the entire machine. Every time you open the door, the smell becomes stronger, and even your dishes may come out smelling unpleasant.

Moisture also plays a big role in bad smells. Dishwashers stay damp after every wash, and bacteria love wet places. If the door is kept closed tightly, no air flows inside, and the smell builds up even faster. That is why it is a good idea to leave the door slightly open after use. Fresh air will dry the inside and reduce odor.

Grease is another problem. Greasy residue sticks to the walls and filter, and over time, it becomes sticky and smelly. Soap scum mixes with grease, making the smell even worse. Normal cycles do not always remove this buildup, so deep cleaning is very important.

The good news is, it is easy to stop dishwasher smells. Regularly washing the filter, cleaning the spray arms, wiping the seal, and running a vinegar cycle keeps the smell away. Once the machine is clean, the fresh scent returns. So yes, dishwashers smell bad without care, but with simple cleaning habits, you can always keep them fresh.

Can I use baking soda in my dishwasher?

Yes, baking soda is safe and very useful for cleaning your dishwasher. It is a natural cleaner that removes odors, freshens the inside, and even helps remove small stains. Unlike harsh chemicals, baking soda is gentle and will not damage parts. It works perfectly as part of regular care for your Beko dishwasher.

To use it, simply sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of your empty dishwasher. Run a short hot cycle without dishes. During the wash, the baking soda dissolves and spreads around. It breaks down light grease and leaves the inside smelling clean and fresh. This method is quick, cheap, and effective.

You can also combine baking soda with vinegar for a stronger clean. First, run a hot cycle with a bowl of vinegar on the top rack. Then, run a second cycle with baking soda sprinkled at the bottom. This two-step process removes tough odors and gives the dishwasher a sparkling look. It feels almost brand new after.

Baking soda is also safe for weekly use. Unlike vinegar, which is acidic, baking soda is gentle and does not harm rubber or plastic. This makes it a perfect choice for more frequent cleaning. If your dishwasher smells or looks dull, baking soda is the easiest fix.

In short, yes, you can and should use baking soda in your dishwasher. It is safe, natural, and keeps your appliance fresh with almost no effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to clean a Beko dishwasher with bleach?

It is not recommended to use bleach for cleaning your Beko dishwasher. Bleach is very harsh and can damage stainless steel surfaces, rubber seals, and plastic parts inside the machine. While bleach kills bacteria, the risks are much higher than the benefits. Instead, vinegar and baking soda are safe and effective natural cleaners. If you must use bleach, only apply it outside the machine, never inside.

Can I run my dishwasher empty to clean it?

Yes, you can run your dishwasher empty to clean it, but plain water is not enough. Running it empty helps rinse some loose dirt, but it does not remove grease, food, or limescale. For real cleaning, you need vinegar, baking soda, or special dishwasher cleaner. These work with hot water to remove odors and buildup. So, running it empty is okay, but it should be paired with cleaning solutions.

Do I need to clean my dishwasher every week?

You do not need to clean the entire dishwasher every week, but some parts do need regular care. For example, the filter should be rinsed weekly because it collects food scraps quickly. The outside surface can also be wiped weekly to keep it looking fresh. Deep cleaning with vinegar or baking soda can be done once a month. With this balance, your dishwasher stays clean without too much work.

Is it normal for dishwashers to have water at the bottom?

Yes, a small amount of water at the bottom of your dishwasher is normal. It helps keep the seals from drying out and prevents leaks. However, if there is a large amount of standing water, it may mean the filter or drain is blocked. Cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose usually solves this issue. If water remains, it may be time to call a professional for help.

Can baking soda and vinegar be used together?

Yes, baking soda and vinegar can be used together for a strong clean. Vinegar removes grease and limescale, while baking soda removes odors and adds freshness. When combined in a two-step process, they make the dishwasher sparkle. First, run a hot cycle with vinegar on the top rack. Then, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom and run another cycle. The results are fresh and shiny.

Is it better to leave the dishwasher door open after use?

Yes, leaving the dishwasher door slightly open after each wash is better. It allows fresh air to circulate inside, drying out the moisture. This reduces the chance of mold, mildew, and bad smells. If the door is kept closed, dampness stays trapped inside, and bacteria can grow. Just a small gap is enough to keep the inside dry and fresh until the next use.

Can vinegar replace dishwasher detergent?

No, vinegar cannot replace dishwasher detergent. Vinegar is good for cleaning the machine itself, but it does not remove grease and food from dishes. Dishwasher detergent is specially made to break down food and leave dishes sparkling. Vinegar should be used only for deep cleaning or odor control inside the dishwasher. Always use proper dishwasher detergent for washing dishes.

Do I need professional service to clean my dishwasher?

Most dishwasher cleaning can be done easily at home without professional help. Tasks like cleaning the filter, spray arms, and seals are simple and quick. Deep cleaning cycles with vinegar or baking soda also work well. However, if you notice serious issues like standing water, leaks, or unusual noises, then a professional service may be needed. Regular care at home reduces the need for costly repairs.