Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.

How to Clean a Dishwasher: Deep Clean, Filter, and Spray Arm Maintenance

Quick Answer

Cleaning a dishwasher removes grease, food residue, mineral deposits, and odor-causing bacteria. Monthly cleaning prevents most dishwasher performance issues (not cleaning, smells, cloudy glasses). Step 1: Remove and clean the filter. Pull out the filter assembly from the bottom of the tub (twist-lock on most models). Rinse under running water, scrub with a soft brush.

Cleaning a dishwasher removes grease, food residue, mineral deposits, and odor-causing bacteria. Monthly cleaning prevents most dishwasher performance issues (not cleaning, smells, cloudy glasses). Step 1: Remove and clean the filter. Pull out the filter assembly from the bottom of the tub (twist-lock on most models). Rinse under running water, scrub with a soft brush. This is the single most impactful dishwasher maintenance step - a clogged filter recirculates dirty water onto clean dishes. Step 2: Clean the spray arms. Remove upper and lower spray arms (usually twist off or pull up). Use a toothpick to clear each spray nozzle hole of mineral deposits. Step 3: Run a cleaning cycle. Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe cup on the top rack. Run the hottest cycle empty. Step 4: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle. This deodorizes. Step 5: Wipe the door edges and gasket with vinegar - these areas don't get washed during cycles.

GenericDishwasherSeverity: mediumDifficulty: intermediate75% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Screwdriver

What Does the HOW-CLEAN Code Mean?

How to clean dishwasher: 1) Clean the filter (most important step).

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Component failure in the Generic dishwasher40%
Sensor or thermostat out of operating range24%
Control board fault14%
Power or electrical supply issue12%
Mechanical wear requiring inspection10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • How to Clean a Dishwasher symptom

Can you reset a Generic dishwasher to clear the HOW-CLEAN code?

Unplug 60 seconds.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterScrewdriverFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Follow brand-specific diagnosis above.

Follow brand-specific diagnosis above.

2

Check error codes and secondary causes.

3

Professional diagnosis if basic checks fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generic dishwasher repair cost?
$100-400 typical.
Repair or replace?
Under 10 years and under 50% replacement = repair.
DIY?
Many fixes DIY. Gas/sealed systems need pros.

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026