New LG Dishwasher Smells Bad: How to Fix It
Quick answer
A new LG dishwasher that smells bad is often due to trapped food particles or mold. Clean the filter, rinse aid dispenser, and interior with vinegar or baking soda. Run a hot water cycle to eliminate odors.
Confirm the symptom
- Unpleasant smell when opening the dishwasher
- Smell after a cycle even with clean dishes
- Musty or moldy odor inside the dishwasher
Tools and prep
- White vinegar — Natural disinfectant to eliminate odors
- Baking soda — Absorbs odors and cleans surfaces
- Microfiber cloth — For wiping surfaces and crevices
- Soft-bristled brush — For scrubbing filters and dispensers
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Prep & safety
- Ensure the dishwasher is empty and unplugged for safety.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands while cleaning.
- Open the dishwasher door to allow ventilation during cleaning.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Clean the Filter
Do: Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher and remove it. Rinse it under running water to remove debris.
Observe: The filter is clogged with food particles and grime.
Means: The clogged filter is causing the bad smell.
Next: Proceed to clean the filter thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush.
Clean the Filter Thoroughly
Do: Use a soft-bristled brush and a mixture of water and baking soda to scrub the filter. Rinse and reinsert it.
Observe: The filter is now clean and free of debris.
Means: The filter is no longer a source of odor.
Next: Move on to cleaning the rinse aid dispenser.
Clean the Rinse Aid Dispenser
Do: Remove the rinse aid dispenser and clean it with white vinegar. Wipe it with a microfiber cloth and reinsert it.
Observe: The dispenser has a buildup of residue and grime.
Means: The dispenser is contributing to the bad smell.
Next: Proceed to wipe down the interior of the dishwasher.
Wipe Down the Interior
Do: Use a microfiber cloth dampened with white vinegar to wipe the interior surfaces, including the door seal and spray arms.
Observe: The interior is now clean and free of visible residue.
Means: The interior surfaces are no longer a source of odor.
Next: Run a hot water cycle to complete the cleaning process.
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 to sanitize the interior.
Observe: The vinegar neutralizes odors and sanitizes the dishwasher.
Means: The dishwasher is now clean and odor-free.
Next: Check if the smell has been eliminated.
Check for Remaining Odors
Do: Open the dishwasher door and sniff for any remaining odors. If the smell persists, repeat the cleaning steps.
Observe: The smell is gone or significantly reduced.
Means: The cleaning process was effective.
Next: Finish the troubleshooting process.
Finish the Troubleshooting Process
Do: Close the dishwasher door and plug it back in. Run a normal cycle with dishes to ensure everything is working properly.
Observe: The dishwasher runs a cycle without any issues and no lingering odors.
Means: The problem has been resolved.
Next: Complete the troubleshooting.
Common causes table
| Cause | Why | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Filter | Trapped food particles and grime can cause bad odors. | High | Low | Dishwasher Filter |
| Dirty Rinse Aid Dispenser | Residue buildup in the dispenser can lead to unpleasant smells. | Medium | Low | Rinse Aid Dispenser |
| Mold or Mildew Growth | Moisture trapped in the dishwasher can lead to mold or mildew. | Medium | Low | None |
| Food Residue in Interior | Leftover food particles in the interior can cause odors. | High | Low | None |
| Improper Ventilation | Poor ventilation can trap moisture and cause odors. | Low | Low | None |
| Blocked Drain Hose | A clogged drain hose can prevent proper drainage and cause odors. | Low | Medium | Drain Hose |
| Faulty Door Seal | A damaged door seal can trap moisture and cause odors. | Low | Medium | Door Seal |
Parts matching
When replacing parts for your LG dishwasher, ensure the new parts match your model. Check the model number on the dishwasher's door or user manual.
- Dishwasher Filter: Match the model number and size to your LG dishwasher.
- Rinse Aid Dispenser: Ensure compatibility with your LG model for proper fit and function.
- Drain Hose: Match the length and diameter to your existing hose.
- Door Seal: Verify the size and model compatibility for a proper fit.
Purchase genuine LG parts for the best performance and compatibility.
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When to call a pro
- The smell persists after multiple cleaning attempts.
- You notice a foul smell even after replacing the filter and dispenser.
- The dishwasher is not draining properly, leading to standing water.
- You suspect a damaged door seal or internal mold growth that cannot be cleaned.
- The dishwasher is still under warranty and you want to avoid voiding it by DIY repairs.
FAQ
How often should I clean my LG dishwasher to prevent bad odors?
Clean the filter and interior every 1–2 months to prevent buildup and odors.
Can I use bleach to clean my LG dishwasher?
Avoid using bleach as it can damage the dishwasher's surfaces and components. Use vinegar or baking soda instead.
Why does my new LG dishwasher still smell after cleaning?
If the smell persists, there may be a hidden mold issue or a faulty component that needs professional inspection.
Is it normal for a new dishwasher to have a smell initially?
A slight odor may be present due to manufacturing residues, but it should dissipate after a few cycles.