Is your LG dishwasher starting to smell funky or leaving spots on your dishes? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Most people don’t realize how important regular dishwasher cleaning is until the grime, odors, and clogs start showing up. The truth is, even the most advanced LG dishwashers need a little love to keep performing at their best. Learning how to clean LG dishwasher the right way helps it work better, lasts longer, and keeps your kitchen smelling nice. If you’re facing greasy filters, tough messes, or just want your things to shine like new again, we can help. We provide easy and affordable instructions that show you exactly what to do.

Why You Need to Clean Your LG Dishwasher Regularly

Let’s face it—most of us assume our dishwasher cleans itself while it’s cleaning our dishes. But that’s not exactly how it works. Over time, food particles, grease, detergent residue, and even hard water minerals build up inside your LG dishwasher. This gunk can clog filters, block spray arms, and leave behind foul odors or cloudy dishes.

Still wondering why it matters? Here’s what happens when you skip routine cleaning:

Your dishes stop coming out clean.

Bits of old food and soap scum start recirculating during cycles.

It starts to smell… bad.

Trapped moisture and food create the perfect environment for mold and mildew.

You’re burning energy and water for nothing.

A dirty dishwasher has to work harder to get the same results.

It shortens your dishwasher’s lifespan.

A well-maintained appliance easily lasts 10+ years. Neglect can cut that in half.

By learning how to clean LG dishwasher the right way, you’ll be saving time, money, and stress in the long run. Think of it like giving your machine a spa day—it deserves it! And the payoff? Sparkling dishes and a kitchen that smells fresh again.

When and How Often Should You Clean Your LG Dishwasher?

You might be wondering, “I know I should clean it, but how often. ” That’s a good question. You don’t have to scrub your LG dishwasher every day to keep it working well. Having a routine can help stop dirt and bad smells from building up. Here’s a simple guide for how often to clean things: .

Every Use:

• Look at the bottom for any leftover food or trash. If necessary, clean the door seals with a wet cloth.

Once a Week:

• Wash and clean the filter. Believe us—this small action can make a big impact.

Every Month:

• Run a vinegar cleaning cycle and check the spray arms for clogs.
• Every 3–6 Months:
• Deep clean everything—interior, racks, exterior, drain, and gaskets.

But it’s not just about a schedule. Pay attention to the warning signs:

• Dishes are still dirty after washing.  
• Weird smells even when there’s nothing inside.  
• Water is sitting at the bottom.  
• You can see buildup on the inside walls or arms.

If you notice any of these, it’s probably time to give your LG dishwasher some extra care. A little routine maintenance now can save you from bigger (and pricier) issues later on.

What to Do Before You Start Cleaning Your LG Dishwasher

Before you start cleaning, let’s get everything ready for success. You don’t require particular products or tools to clean your LG dishwasher, but getting ready a bit can make it easier and more useful.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A soft microfiber cloth or sponge
• An old toothbrush or small scrub brush
• Dish soap (mild and non-abrasive)
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• A toothpick or sewing needle (for spray arm holes)
• Warm water
• A towel or mat to protect your floor

Prep Steps Before Cleaning:

1. Turn off the power or unplug your dishwasher for safety, especially if you’ll be removing parts.
2. Empty the dishwasher, removing all dishes, utensils, and both top and bottom racks if needed.
3. Run hot water in your kitchen sink for 30 seconds. This primes the dishwasher with hot water right at the start of the cycle, which boosts cleaning performance later.
4. Place a towel under the door in case any water spills when removing the filter or spray arms.

Getting everything ready before you begin will make the whole process easier, cleaner, and much faster. Plus, it ensures you don’t miss any hidden trouble spots during the cleaning routine. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean LG Dishwasher Properly

Step 1: Clean the Filter to Stop Funky Smells and Grit

The filter in your dishwasher helps keep food bits from getting stuck inside. If it stays dirty, it doesn’t smell good and leaves stuff on the dishes. It’s found at the bottom below the lower spray arm. Twist, lift, rinse, and gently scrub with a brush and warm soapy water. Wipe it dry and put it back where it belongs.

Step 2: Scrub the Spray Arms to Boost Water Flow

Spray arms are responsible for distributing water evenly. Over time, tiny food bits or hard water minerals can clog the holes.

Here’s how to clean them:

1. Remove the lower and upper spray arms by unscrewing or gently snapping them out.
2. Rinse them under warm water.
3. Use a toothpick or needle to poke out debris from each spray hole.
4. Soak them in a bowl of white vinegar for 20–30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
5. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Reattach both arms, making sure they spin freely. This alone can drastically improve your dishwasher’s power!

Step 3: Wipe Down the Interior Walls and Door

Grease, steam, and detergent build up over time on the inside walls and door. You might even see mold or mildew around the rubber seals.

Follow these steps:

• Dip a microfiber cloth in warm soapy water.
• Wipe down the walls, especially around the edges and corners.
• Pay special attention to the door gasket/seal—mold loves hiding here.
• For stubborn spots, sprinkle baking soda on the cloth for gentle scrubbing.

Optional: Spray a little white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe dry.

Step 4: Run a Vinegar Cleaning Cycle

Vinegar is great for getting rid of grease, soap residue, and small mineral buildups.

Here’s how:

1. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with 1 cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
2. Run a hot water cycle with the dishwasher empty—no detergent.
3. Once the cycle ends, leave the door open for 10 minutes to air dry.

Important: Do NOT pour vinegar directly into the detergent or rinse aid compartment—it can damage internal parts.

Step 5: Deodorize with Baking Soda

If your LG dishwasher still has a bad smell after cleaning, baking soda can help.

What to do:

• Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda directly onto the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Run a short hot cycle (no dishes, no detergent).
• When it finishes, leave the door slightly open.

The baking soda not only neutralizes odors but also polishes the interior without being harsh.

Step 6: Clean the Utensil Holder and Racks

Your racks and silverware baskets collect residue too, especially around the edges and rubber tines.

To clean them:

• Take out all the shelves and the holder for utensils.  
• Please put them in a sink or tub with warm, soapy water.  
• Use a soft brush or sponge to clean all the tight spots.  
• Wash well and dry with a clean towel.

Before placing them back, wipe the tracks they slide into—gunk often hides there.

Step 7: Clean the Dishwasher Drain

The drain is where bits of food and grease go. If it’s blocked, you’ll see water collecting at the bottom.

How to clean it:

• Locate the drain (usually beneath the filter area).
• Use paper towels or gloves to remove any visible debris.
• Pour a mix of boiling water and vinegar (50/50) down the drain to flush it.
• Wait 10 minutes, then follow up with a rinse cycle.

Caution: Never stick anything sharp down the drain—it could damage internal parts.

Step 8: Wipe the Door Edges, Hinges, and Controls

These parts don’t get cleaned during normal wash cycles but collect grime just like everything else.

Quick steps:

• Dampen a cloth with vinegar or mild soap water.
• Clean around the door edges, hinges, and especially the control panel.
• Use a soft brush for crevices or seams.

Avoid getting water into electronic buttons—always wring out your cloth well.

Step 9: Polish the Exterior (Especially Stainless Steel)

Make your LG dishwasher look as good on the outside as it works on the inside.

Here’s how:

• Use a soft cloth with mild soap or a stainless-steel cleaner.
• Wipe with the grain to avoid streaks.
• For fingerprints, use a vinegar-water mix (50/50), then dry with a microfiber towel.

You’ll be amazed how a shiny exterior adds that fresh, clean feel to your entire kitchen.

Step 10: Final Touch – Leave It Dry and Fresh

This last step is simple but effective—and often overlooked.

• After your deep clean, leave the dishwasher door slightly open for a few hours (or overnight).
• This prevents moisture buildup and discourages mold or mildew growth.

You can also drop a dishwasher deodorizer or leave a bowl of baking soda inside between cycles to keep things smelling fresh.

When to Call in the Pros for Your LG Dishwasher

You’ve scrubbed the filter, flushed the drain, and run your vinegar cycles—so why is your LG dishwasher still not performing like it used to? Sometimes, a professional touch is what your appliance truly needs. While regular cleaning goes a long way, there are hidden issues that only a trained technician can catch.

Here’s when it’s smart to call an expert:

• You hear strange grinding or clicking sounds during a cycle.
• Water isn’t draining properly, even after cleaning the filter and drain.
• It’s leaking from underneath or around the door.
• Error codes keep popping up even after resetting.
• Your dishes aren’t getting clean, and you’ve ruled out every other cause.

Professionals have diagnostic tools and manufacturer training that help them spot internal mechanical issues—things like motor problems, clogged pumps, or failing heating elements.

LG Support Options:

LG offers in-home service, extended warranties, and live chat help. You can schedule an official technician directly from the LG Support Center.

While DIY maintenance will save you time and money in most cases, don’t hesitate to bring in a pro at least once a year—especially if your dishwasher is older or heavily used. Think of it as an annual checkup for your machine to keep it running like new.

Extra Cleaning Hacks and Pro Tips to Keep Your LG Dishwasher Sparkling

Your LG dishwasher does the dirty work—so show it some love beyond basic cleaning. These expert-backed hacks will help you prevent buildup, eliminate odors, and extend your dishwasher’s life with minimal effort.

1. Use Lemon Rinds for Natural Freshness

If you’re out of vinegar, lemon juice is a great alternative. It breaks down grease, freshens up the interior, and leaves behind a light citrus scent. Just pour ½ cup into a bowl and run a hot cycle.

2. Don’t Overload Your Dishwasher

When you cram too many dishes in, water flow gets blocked, and food particles stay stuck. Space items properly so spray arms can work efficiently.

3. Clean the Exterior With Microfiber + Vinegar Spray

A 50/50 vinegar-water mix removes smudges from the stainless steel exterior. Use a microfiber cloth and wipe along the grain for that showroom shine.

4. Run Hot Water at Your Sink First

Before starting a cycle, run hot water in the sink for 30 seconds. This ensures your dishwasher starts with hot water, improving cleaning power from the first spray.

5. Add a Dishwasher-Safe Cup of Baking Soda Before Bed

Once a week, place ½ cup of baking soda on the bottom rack and leave the door open overnight. It’ll absorb odor and moisture while you sleep.

6. Soak Removable Parts in White Vinegar Monthly

Pop out the filter, utensil holder, and spray arms. Soak them in white vinegar for 20–30 minutes to dissolve grease, soap scum, and limescale.

7. Avoid Powder Detergent if You Have Hard Water

Hard water makes powder clump and reduces cleaning power. Switch to gel or pods for consistent results and fewer residues.

8. Wipe the Door Gasket Weekly

Use a wet cloth and some gentle soap to clean the rubber seal. This area gets dirty quickly and can leak if you don’t take care of it.

9. Check the Drain for Hidden Gunk

Food scraps and broken glass can collect in the drain trap. Check monthly and remove any debris to avoid future clogs or smells.

10. Use the ‘Sanitize’ or ‘High Temp’ Option Weekly

These cycles get hotter, killing bacteria and clearing away dirt. If your LG model has it, go ahead and use it.

Pro Tip:

Bookmark this guide on how to clean LG dishwasher and revisit it monthly. Adding just one or two of these hacks to your routine will save you time, money, and frustration—while keeping your kitchen appliance looking (and smelling) like new.

Must read: How to Clean Amana Dishwasher in 7 Powerful Easy Steps

FAQs About How to Clean LG Dishwasher

Conclusion

Taking care of your dishwasher is easy. With these easy steps, you now know how to clean LG dishwasher from top to bottom—inside, outside, and all around. Cleaning regularly keeps your dishes shiny, helps your appliances last longer, and prevents bad smells. Don’t wait for issues to stack up—start taking care of your kitchen cleanliness now. Save this guide, share it with your friends, and check it again every month to keep it fresh in your mind.👇

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Resources

https://www.lg.com/us/support/video-tutorials/lg-dishwasher-cleaning-the-dishwasher-CT10000009-20151129312128?

https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-dishwasher-maintenance–1433962981524?

https://www.lg.com/ae/lg-story/helpful-guide/how-to-clean-your-dishwasher?

https://www.lg.com/eastafrica/b2c/blog-list/dishwasher-cleaning-and-maintenance-tips?

https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2024/06/get-rid-of-new-dishwasher-smell-how-to.html?

https://dishwasherguys.com/fixing-your-dishwasher-smell-quickly/?

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/smelly-dishwasher/?