Dishwasher Smells Fishy

Quick answer

A fishy smell in your dishwasher is often caused by trapped food particles or mold. Clean the filter, rinse aid dispenser, and interior to eliminate the odor. Run a hot water cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner for best results.

Confirm the symptom

• Smell is strongest when opening the dishwasher door
• Odor resembles spoiled fish or rotting food
• Smell persists even after empty dishwasher

Tools and prep

• Rubber gloves
• Microfiber cloth
• White vinegar or dishwasher cleaner
• Baking soda
• Spoon or small brush for filter cleaning
• Old towel or paper towels
• Turn off power to dishwasher at circuit breaker for safety

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Check and Clean the Filter
   Do: Remove the bottom filter and rinse it under hot water. Use a brush to scrub away food debris.
   Observe: Filter is clogged with food particles or mold
   Means: Clogged filter is causing the fishy smell
   Next: Clean the filter thoroughly and reinstall it
2. Clean the Rinsing Aid Dispenser
   Do: Locate the rinse aid dispenser and wipe it with a damp cloth. Soak in vinegar if it's clogged.
   Observe: Rinse aid dispenser has residue or mold
   Means: Residue in dispenser is contributing to the odor
   Next: Clean dispenser and refill with rinse aid if needed
3. Wipe Down Interior Surfaces
   Do: Use a microfiber cloth soaked in vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner to wipe all interior surfaces, including the door seal.
   Observe: Interior shows mold or grime buildup
   Means: Mold or grime is causing the smell
   Next: Dry surfaces with a clean towel
4. Run a Hot Water Cycle
   Do: Place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle without dishes.
   Observe: Vinegar evaporates and leaves a fresh smell
   Means: Vinegar helps neutralize odors and clean the system
   Next: Let the dishwasher air dry after the cycle
5. Check Drain Hose and Trap
   Do: Inspect the drain hose for clogs and clean the drain trap if accessible. Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove debris.
   Observe: Drain hose or trap has food particles or mold
   Means: Clogged drain is causing the fishy smell
   Next: Flush the drain with hot water and vinegar
6. Use Baking Soda for Deodorizing
   Do: Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle. Alternatively, make a paste and apply it to the interior.
   Observe: Smell is significantly reduced after the cycle
   Means: Baking soda neutralized the odor-causing agents
   Next: Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth after the cycle

Common causes

Parts matching

Replace or clean these parts if they are damaged or heavily clogged:

• Dishwasher filter (common replacement part)
• Rinse aid dispenser (if clogged or moldy)
• Dishwasher cleaner (for deep cleaning)
• Drain hose or trap (if frequently clogged)

Purchase replacement parts from the manufacturer or a hardware store to ensure compatibility with your dishwasher model.

When to call a professional

• Smell persists after multiple cleaning attempts
• Dishwasher leaks or makes unusual noises during cleaning
• Drain hose is difficult to access or clean
• You suspect a water heater issue causing the smell
• Interior mold is extensive and hard to remove

FAQ

Related guides

• dishwasher not draining properly
• dishwasher smells like mildew

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