Quick answer
A smelly dishwasher is often caused by trapped food or a clogged drain. Clean the filter, check the drain hose, and run a cleaning cycle to eliminate odors. If the smell persists, inspect the drain pump or call a professional.
Confirm the symptom
- Unpleasant sewage-like odor when opening the dishwasher
- Smell worsens after a wash cycle
- Standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher
Tools and prep
- Rubber gloves
- Screwdriver
- Plastic putty knife
- White vinegar or dishwasher cleaner
- Bucket
- Flashlight
- Turn off the dishwasher power at the circuit breaker
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check and Clean the FilterDo: Remove the dishwasher filter and clean it under running water. Use a brush to remove trapped food particles.Observe: Filter is clogged with debris and food particles.Means: Clogged filter is causing the odor.Next: Clean the filter thoroughly and reinstall it.
- Inspect the Drain HoseDo: Locate the drain hose under the sink or dishwasher and check for clogs or kinks.Observe: Hose is clogged with debris or has a kink.Means: Blocked drain hose prevents proper drainage.Next: Clear the blockage or straighten the kink.
- Clean the Dishwasher InteriorDo: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a bowl and place it on the top rack. Run a hot water cycle.Observe: Vinegar evaporates, leaving a clean smell.Means: Interior buildup is causing the odor.Next: Repeat the cleaning cycle if needed.
- Check the Drain PumpDo: Locate the drain pump (consult your manual for location) and inspect for debris or damage.Observe: Pump is clogged or damaged.Means: Faulty drain pump is causing the odor.Next: Clean the pump or replace it if damaged.
- Inspect the Garbage Disposal ConnectionDo: If connected to a garbage disposal, check the connection for clogs or leaks.Observe: Connection is clogged or leaking.Means: Clogged connection is causing the odor.Next: Clear the clog or repair the connection.
- Check for Standing WaterDo: Look for standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle.Observe: Standing water is present.Means: Improper drainage is causing the odor.Next: Ensure the drain hose is clear and the pump is working.
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Filter Trapped food particles decompose and cause odors. | Common | Easy | Dishwasher filter |
| Clogged Drain Hose Debris in the hose blocks water flow and causes stagnant water. | Common | Easy | Drain hose |
| Clogged Garbage Disposal Connection Food particles in the disposal connection cause odors. | Sometimes | Easy–Medium | Garbage disposal |
| Faulty Drain Pump A damaged or clogged pump prevents proper drainage. | Sometimes | Medium | Drain pump |
| Standing Water Improper drainage leads to stagnant water and odors. | Sometimes | Easy | Drain hose |
| Interior Mold or Mildew Moisture and food residue create mold or mildew. | Rare | Easy | Dishwasher cleaner |
Parts matching
Common parts that may be needed to fix a smelly dishwasher:
- Dishwasher filter
- Drain hose
- Drain pump
- Dishwasher cleaner
- Garbage disposal parts
Purchase OEM parts for compatibility and performance.
When to call a professional
- Strong sewage smell persists after cleaning all components
- Standing water remains despite clear drain hose and pump
- Drain pump is damaged and needs replacement
- Smell originates from the garbage disposal connection and cannot be cleared
- Dishwasher does not drain properly and shows error codes
FAQ
Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
Avoid using bleach as it can damage the dishwasher's interior and components. Use vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner instead.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
Clean the filter at least once a month to prevent clogs and odors.
Why does my dishwasher smell after every use?
This is often due to a clogged filter, drain hose, or improper drainage. Regular cleaning can help prevent this.
Can a smelly dishwasher affect my health?
A smelly dishwasher can harbor bacteria and mold, which may affect indoor air quality. Regular cleaning is recommended.
How do I know if my drain pump is faulty?
If the dishwasher does not drain properly or emits a sewage-like smell, the drain pump may be clogged or damaged.