If you have a dishwasher, you'll understand how much time it can save you, rather than handwashing every dish. They really are worth the investment as you can simply rinse, pop everything in, choose the setting and away it goes - and then your dishes come out sparkling once the cycle has been completed.
Home appliance experts Beko, have highlighted, however, that it's so important that you keep your dishwasher clean in order for it to work properly - and there's also a common stacking mistake that can cause issues for your machine, meaning your items won't come out looking as pristine as you'd hoped.
They suggest that you deep clean your dishwasher once every few months, but the frequency of this cleaning will depend on how often the dishwasher is used. Equally, your cleaning routine will depend on the level of soiling on your dishes and the number of dishes you are washing.
They said: "By regularly cleaning your machine, you can prevent the build of mould, limescale, bacteria, and odours, ensuring perfectly hygienic, fresh dishes."
If you're looking to clean your machine and have no idea where to start, simply wipe the outer surface and door seals gently with a slightly damp cloth.
If you're looking to deep clean it, run an inner cleaning or Intensive programme with no dishes inside.
It is also important to make sure your dishwasher is not overloaded as this, along with incorrect stacking, can cause poor washing results. And, to prevent bad odours, make sure you are using a suitable washing programme for the level of soiling on your dishes and the number of dishes.
When not using the dishwasher, Beko recommended leaving the door open to allow air into the machine, as 'if the door is closed, bacteria will fester in the damp'.
It's also important to regularly descale your machine using a 'specially developed dishwasher limescale and detergent/grease remover on a monthly basis to ensure your dishwasher is working at maximum efficiency'.
The experts also recommend cleaning the filters. They said: "Regularly remove and clean the filters in the base of your dishwasher. Alongside this, regularly remove and rinse the spray arms and clear any blocked nozzles."
Do you have any dishwasher cleaning tips? Let us know in the comments.
