Tired of pulling out “clean” dishes that still smell funky or feel greasy? You’re not alone. Even the most advanced kitchen helper—your Samsung dishwasher—needs a little TLC to keep working like new. If you’ve never learned how to clean Samsung dishwasher, don’t worry—most people haven’t. Not following this easy routine is why smells get stronger, filters get blocked, and dishes lose their shine. The good news. It’s simpler than you might think. With a few tools and the proper steps, you can thoroughly clean your dishwasher, improve its performance, and extend its lifespan, without needing to call a repair person. Are you ready to get to work? Let’s dive into the simplest and most effective way to clean your Samsung dishwasher today.

Why Clean Your Samsung Dishwasher?

If your dishwasher smells bad, leaves white spots on glasses, or isn’t draining correctly, chances are it’s overdue for a deep clean. You might assume dishwashers clean themselves—but that’s a myth. Over time, food scraps, grease, soap scum, and even mold can accumulate inside, clogging spray arms, blocking filters, and compromising performance.

1. Better Cleaning Results

Have you ever noticed your dishes coming out with dried-on food or a cloudy film? That’s usually not a detergent issue—it’s your machine crying for help. A dirty interior can block water flow, especially if the Samsung dishwasher filter is clogged with debris. Cleaning the filter and spray arms ensures that every dish receives high-pressure, detergent-rich water, restoring that factory-clean sparkle.

2. Say Goodbye to Funky Smells

That awful odor wafts out when you open the door? It’s likely caused by old food debris stuck in the filter or rubber door seal. When that grime bakes during heated drying cycles, bacteria thrive. Regular cleaning helps eliminate the source of that stench—and gives you a fresh-smelling kitchen again. For even better results, you’ll learn how to use vinegar and baking soda in later sections to neutralize smells naturally.

3. Improve Drainage and Prevent Overflows

One of the most common problems people encounter is a dishwasher that fails to drain correctly. That’s often caused by a clogged filter or blocked drain pump. When food sludge sits for too long, it thickens and causes backups. A monthly cleaning prevents this and keeps the dreaded “standing water in the bottom” problem at bay.

4. Extend the Life of Your Machine

Like any other machine, your Samsung dishwasher requires regular maintenance to function correctly. Neglect leads to wear and tear, higher energy usage, and eventual breakdown. But the good news is that routine care—just 15 minutes a week—can add years to your dishwasher’s lifespan and save you hundreds on repairs or replacements.

Routine Cleaning: Weekly or Bi-Weekly

To keep your Samsung dishwasher working optimally, a fast clean once a week can make a significant difference. It’s fast to do, and you don’t need special tools. Spending just 15 minutes on maintenance can help stop bad smells, keep your dishes clean, and prevent clogs. Here’s a simple way to clean your Samsung dishwasher—it’s easy and there’s no confusion.

Step 1: Wipe the Exterior and Control Panel

• Use a soft microfiber cloth that is slightly wet with warm water.
• Use either a mild cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel or a blend of vinegar and water to clean stainless steel doors.
• Avoid using harsh scrubbers or bleach, as they can scratch or damage your panel.

Tip: Wipe along the grain of the metal for a streak-free finish.

Step 2: Clean the Door Seal and Edges

• Open the door fully and check the rubber seal around the frame.
• Clean it with a wet cloth or a mix of warm water and baking soda.
• Use an old toothbrush to reach into the folds where grime hides.

If your dishwasher smells bad, this area is often the source of the issue.

Step 3: Clean the Filter (Most Important Step!)

This is where food debris and grease collect—and it’s often overlooked.

• Slide out the bottom rack.
• Twist the filter cover counterclockwise and gently pull it out.
• Clean it with warm water and gently scrub it with a soft brush or toothbrush.
• Remove the mesh screen (if detachable) and clean underneath.

If your Samsung dishwasher features a fine mesh or triple filter system, ensure that you clean each layer individually.

Step 4: Clean the Spray Arms

• Check the lower and upper spray arms for clogs.
• Remove them if possible (most models let you pop them off easily).
• Rinse under warm water and poke clogged holes with a toothpick or soft wire.

Clogged arms reduce water pressure, resulting in poor cleaning performance.

Step 5: Run a Vinegar Rinse Cycle

• Fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar (about 8 ounces).
• Place it on the top or bottom rack.
• Run the dishwasher on the Sanitize or hottest cycle.

This helps remove grease, soap scum, and musty smells naturally.

Deep Cleaning: Monthly or As Needed

Even if you clean your dishwasher every week, it’s essential to do a deep clean once a month. This will help keep your Samsung dishwasher smelling good, running quietly, and cleaning well. This thorough cleaning removes unseen dirt, hard water buildup, and grease in areas that are not visible, such as the drain pump, spray nozzles, and filter area. Here’s how to clean your Samsung dishwasher well, both inside and out.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

You’ll need:

• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• A small bowl or cup
• An old toothbrush or a small scrub brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Optional: dishwasher-safe descaler (for hard water)

No harsh chemicals or bleach—Samsung doesn’t recommend them, especially on stainless steel interiors.

Step 2: Remove & Soak the Filter and Spray Arms

• Take out the bottom rack.
• Remove the filter (twist and pull out) and spray arms (they pop off easily in most models).
• Soak all the parts in warm water with 1 cup of vinegar for at least 15 minutes.
• Use a toothbrush to scrub off gunk, especially around spray arm holes and mesh filter layers.

If your dishwasher isn’t draining correctly, this step can often resolve the issue.

Step 3: Scrub the Interior Tub

• Combine baking soda and water to make a thick paste.
• Use a cloth or sponge to scrub inside walls, especially near the door seal and filter area.
• Don’t forget to wipe the inside of the door, including the detergent dispenser area.

Look for soap buildup, food residue, and slimy biofilm near corners and hinges.

Step 4: Clean the Drain and Pump Area

• Use a flashlight to peek into the drain opening at the bottom.
• Remove any food bits, hair, or gunk clogging the drain mesh.
• If water isn’t draining after cycles, you might have a blocked drain or pump. Use a turkey baster to suck water out, then remove clogs with tweezers or your hands (gloves are recommended).

Warning: Always unplug the dishwasher before reaching into electrical or pump areas.

Step 5: Run a Double Cleaning Cycle

Cycle 1: Vinegar Wash

• Place a bowl of white vinegar on the bottom rack and run a normal hot cycle.
• This breaks down grease and kills bacteria.

Cycle 2: Baking Soda Rinse

• Spread 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the tub.
• Run a short hot cycle.
• This deodorizes and brightens the interior.

Optional: Add a descaler every 2–3 months if you have hard water.

Step 6: Wipe and Polish the Exterior

• Clean stainless steel with a vinegar-dampened microfiber cloth.
• Polish with a drop of olive oil or a stainless steel cleaner for shine.
• Don’t forget the handle, buttons, and vents where grease builds up over time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even if you clean often, you may still encounter problems occasionally. If you notice strange smells, water sitting inside, or dishes that aren’t getting clean, your Samsung dishwasher might be trying to let you know something. Here are the common problems users encounter, along with quick solutions to address them.

1) Dishwasher Smells Bad

Why does it happen?

Trapped food particles in the filter, drain area, or door seal are usually the cause. Warm, damp conditions make a perfect home for mold and bacteria.

Solution:

• Deep clean your Samsung dishwasher, paying special attention to the filter and door seal.
• Run a baking soda and vinegar cycle (see Section 4).
• Wipe around the gasket and hinges on a weekly basis.

Use lemon juice drops or a dishwasher deodorizer to keep things fresh.

2) Dishes Still Dirty After a Cycle

Why does it happen?

Clogged spray arms, a dirty filter, or low water temperature can reduce cleaning power.

Solution:

• Unclog and rinse the spray arms.
• Clean the filter and mesh screen thoroughly.
• Pre-run your tap until hot (at least 120°F) before starting the dishwasher.
• Don’t overload—space your dishes evenly.

Switch to high-quality detergent pods and use rinse aid for best results.

3) Dishwasher Not Draining Properly

Why does it happen?

Food sludge can block the drain pump, or the gutter hose might be kinked or clogged.

Solution:

• Clean the drain area beneath the filter.
• Detach the drain hose and run water through it to check for leaks.
• Listen for pump sounds—if it’s silent or clicking, it may need servicing.

Standing water in the tub? Remove it with a towel or shop-vac, then inspect the drain pump.

4) Cloudy Glasses or White Film

Why does it happen?

This is often due to hard water or not using rinse aid.

Solution:

• Add a rinse aid or switch to detergent with built-in water softeners.
• Run a vinegar rinse cycle to remove mineral residue.
• Consider using dishwasher-safe descaler once a month.

Consider installing a water softener if you live in an area with hard water.

5) Dishwasher Won’t Start or Finish Cycle

Why does it happen?

It could be a faulty door latch, an electrical glitch, or a stuck sensor.

Solution:

• Unplug for 5 minutes to reset.
• Check if the door is closing fully.
• Make sure the control panel isn’t locked (look for the padlock icon).
• If nothing helps, check your user manual for error codes.

Most Samsung models display error codes such as 5C (drain issue) or 4E (water supply problem).

Troubleshooting is easier when you understand how your dishwasher works. Regular Samsung dishwasher maintenance can prevent these problems altogether—and save you from emergency repairs down the line.

Tips to Maintain a Clean Dishwasher

Now that you know how to clean Samsung dishwasher, let’s make sure it stays that way. Regular maintenance doesn’t just prevent nasty odors or streaky dishes—it keeps your appliance running smoothly for years to come. Below are some easy, no-fuss tips to follow and avoid problems before they arise.

1. Always Scrape Off Food First

Even though your dishwasher is powerful, it’s not a garbage disposal. Scraping (not rinsing!) off food bits before loading helps prevent clogs in the Samsung dishwasher filter and drain area.

2. Use the Right Detergent

Choose high-quality dishwasher pods or tablets. Avoid overfilling powder or liquid detergent—too much can lead to soap buildup. If you live in an area with complex water, use a detergent that contains a water softener or add dishwasher salt to your rinse cycle.

3. Run Hot Water Before Every Cycle

Before you start washing, let the water from your kitchen faucet run until it reaches a comfortable temperature. This helps your dishwasher begin with hot water, making it work more efficiently and allowing the soap to mix well.

4. Clean Your Samsung Dishwasher Monthly

Make it a habit. Set a calendar reminder to deep clean your Samsung dishwasher once a month. Focus on the filter, spray arms, door seal, and running vinegar + baking soda cycles. This one habit can save you hundreds in repairs.

5. Don’t Overload or Block Spray Arms

Overloading racks or placing large pans in the wrong spot can block spray arms from rotating. Space out your dishes and make sure nothing blocks the water jets.

6. Use Rinse Aid Regularly

Rinse aid prevents water spots and helps dishes dry faster. Most Samsung models have a refillable rinse aid compartment—top it off every 2–3 weeks.

7. Leave the Door Ajar After Each Wash

Moisture trapped inside leads to mold and smells. After each wash, open the door slightly to let steam escape and allow air to circulate.

Knowing how to clean your Samsung dishwasher is only half the battle—maintaining that cleanliness is what keeps it running like new. By following these tips, you’ll avoid common issues, save money on repairs, and enjoy sparkling dishes every time.

How to Clean Samsung Dishwasher by Model Type

Not all Samsung dishwashers are built the same. While the general cleaning steps apply across the board, specific models have unique filters, self-cleaning features, or control panels that require particular attention. To clean your Samsung dishwasher correctly, you’ll need to take into account your model’s specific layout and features.

1) How to Identify Your Samsung Dishwasher Model

• Open the door and check for the model number sticker on the inside edge.  
• It usually begins with “DW,” such as DW80K5050US or DW80R9950US.  
• Knowing your model helps you clean it properly and not harm any delicate parts.

2) Filter Access Varies by Model

Some Samsung dishwashers have easy-twist filters, while others require a bit more effort.

• For models like DW80R2031US, the filter is located right under the lower rack—twist and lift it.
• Newer models may have multi-layer filters (main + mesh screen), which should be cleaned separately.
• Follow your manual closely, especially if your model has a removable drain cap under the filter.

Use the keyword “Samsung dishwasher filter cleaning” in your searches to find model-specific videos or guides.

3) Self-Cleaning Features: Use Them!

Some high-end models, like the Samsung Linear Wash series, come with a Self-Clean or Sanitize cycle:

• This is a cleaning feature that utilizes extremely hot steam and pressure to eliminate germs.  
• Do it once a month, especially if you notice stains or a bad smell.  
• You should still clean the filter and spray arms by hand—Self-Clean can’t do it all.

Never assume your dishwasher cleans itself thoroughly—manual cleaning is still a must.

4) Special Care for Stainless Steel Interiors

If your Samsung model has a stainless steel tub, use only:

• Non-abrasive sponges
• White vinegar for descaling
• Baking soda to deodorize

Avoid bleach or harsh chemical cleaners—they can corrode the interior and void your warranty.

5) Model-Specific Cleaning Videos (Helpful Resources)

• Samsung YouTube support offers cleaning walkthroughs tailored to specific model types.
• Search “how to clean Samsung dishwasher [your model number]” for step-by-step videos.
• Additionally, refer to Samsung’s online manuals and the SmartThings app for filter maintenance tips.

Whether you own a basic Samsung dishwasher or an innovative Wi-Fi-enabled model, knowing how to clean Samsung dishwasher parts based on your specific unit ensures you don’t damage components and get the best possible clean every time.

FAQs

Must read: How to Clean Cove Dishwasher Filter – 2025 Easy Fix

Conclusion

Learning how to clean Samsung dishwasher is one of the simplest ways to keep your kitchen running smoothly. By performing simple tasks regularly, such as cleaning the filter, running vinegar through the machine, and wiping down the seals, you can eliminate foul odors, prevent blockages, and consistently achieve sparkling dishes. Whether you clean your dishwasher thoroughly once a month or perform quick cleanings every week, these simple steps can help it last longer and work more efficiently. Don’t wait for issues to come up—take care of things now to prevent them. Now that you know how to clean Samsung dishwasher, you’ll get lean results that you’ll love.

Sources

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10002330

https://www.bhg.com/how-to-clean-dishwasher-8653715

https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-dishwasher-filter

https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/1e1cr3y/using_the_sanitize_setting_on_a_samsung_dishwasher

https://appliancerepairexpert.ca/how-to-clean-samsung-dishwasher

https://www.bhg.com/help-your-dishwasher-clean-better-8767638