Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500229
06/24/03
Dishwasher-Cleaning
The interior is self-cleaning. If a stain does
occur, clean with dishwasher detergent and water, wearing
rubber gloves to protect hands from very alkaline
detergent. A heavy film buildup from hard water minerals
may be removed by adding vinegar or citric acid crystals
(buy at drugstore) to dishwasher without any dishes in
it, after it fills with water at start of first cycle. Do
this only if appliance manual suggests this is OK, and if
the buildup bothers the owner (as it does no harm).
However, very hard water can deposit mineral film on
dishes, glasses, and flatware, and on dishwasher pump and
moving parts; it is wise if water if very hard to install
a water softener before installing a dishwasher.
If iron in water causes rust stains inside
dishwasher, buy a commercial soluble rust remover
(grocery or hardware), checking label to be sure it can
be used to dishwasher. Start empty dishwasher on rinse
cycle. As it fills, open and add 1/2 cup rust remover.
Let dishwasher complete cycle. If iron problem continues
so that another treatment is required, better to install
an iron filter in water system to remove iron as this
will affect dishes, laundry, and all fixtures.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from the Whirlpool
Guide.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .