Keeping your Bosch dishwasher clean isn’t just about appearances; it’s key to making sure it runs efficiently and lasts longer. Over time, grease, food particles, and hard water deposits can build up inside the machine, especially around the spray arms and the dishwasher filter.

If you’ve noticed cloudy dishes, unpleasant smells, or standing water after a cycle, it’s likely time for a deep clean. Regular Bosch dishwasher cleaning helps prevent these issues and keeps everything working the way it should, from the interior components to the drainage system.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before cleaning your Bosch dishwasher, gather a few basic supplies to make the process smooth and effective. These are easy to find and safe for both the interior and exterior of your appliance.

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Mild dish soap or detergent
• Soft toothbrush or small cleaning brush
• Toothpick or pin (for spray arm holes)
• Bosch dishwasher cleaner (or a Bosch-approved descaler)
• Optional: Eco-friendly cleaning products or Bosch-recommended items

How to Clean the Inside of Your Bosch Dishwasher

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, follow these simple steps to clean the inside of your Bosch dishwasher and keep it running like new.

Step 1 – Remove and Clean the Filter

The Bosch dishwasher filter is usually located at the bottom of the tub, under the lower spray arm. Twist it out gently and rinse it under warm water using a soft brush or mild soap. Be sure to remove any food particles or greasy residue. Cleaning the Bosch dishwasher filter every two to three weeks helps maintain strong water flow and prevents odor buildup.

Step 2 – Clean the Spray Arms

Remove the upper and lower spray arms by unscrewing or unclipping them, depending on your model. Rinse them under water and use a toothpick or small brush to unclog any blocked spray holes. This step ensures that water sprays evenly during cycles, helping to avoid spots or residue on your dishes.

Step 3 – Wipe Down the Door and Gasket

Use a soft cloth and mild dish soap to wipe the door, edges, and rubber gasket. Focus on areas where grime or food bits tend to collect, like the seals and hinges. Regularly wiping these spots helps prevent mold, mildew, and musty smells from building up.

Step 4 – Deep Clean the Tub with Vinegar & Baking Soda

Pour one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack. Run a full cycle on the hottest setting. Then, sprinkle a handful of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle. This combo deodorizes, removes light stains, and breaks down mineral buildup, making it a great natural Bosch dishwasher cleaner.

How to Clean the Outside of a Bosch Dishwasher

Cleaning the outside of your Bosch dishwasher is just as important as cleaning the inside, especially if it’s a stainless steel model. Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap to gently wipe the exterior, working in the direction of the grain to maintain the finish. For added shine, you can follow up with a stainless steel conditioner made specifically for appliances.

Cautions:

• Don’t use abrasive cleaning pads or scrubbers
• Avoid bleach or chlorine-based cleaners
• Skip ammonia or anything with a harsh chemical scent
• Never scrub against the grain of stainless steel

How to Descale a Bosch Dishwasher

If you live in an area with hard water, limescale can gradually build up inside your dishwasher and affect its performance. To remove it, use a Bosch dishwasher cleaner designed to break down mineral deposits, or opt for citric acid as a natural alternative.

Just run the hottest cycle with the cleaner in an empty dishwasher. For models that support it, adding water softening salt can help prevent limescale from forming in the first place.

How to Keep Your Bosch Dishwasher Clean (Preventive Maintenance Tips)

Keeping your dishwasher clean doesn’t always mean deep cleaning because simple habits go a long way. Here are a few preventative tips to help you maintain performance and avoid problems down the line:

• Run hot water before starting a cycle: Letting your kitchen faucet run until the water is hot before starting a load helps the dishwasher fill with hot water from the start, improving cleaning efficiency.
• Scrape (but don’t pre-wash) dishes: Scraping off large food chunks is enough; there’s no need to rinse. Bosch dishwashers are designed to handle food residue effectively, and skipping the pre-wash saves both water and energy.
• Clean the filter and spray arms monthly: Taking a few minutes each month to clean the Bosch dishwasher filter and check the spray arms helps prevent clogs and keeps water flowing properly throughout each cycle.
• Leave the door open after cycles to air dry: Cracking the door open once a cycle finishes helps moisture escape, which reduces the chance of mold, mildew, or musty smells forming inside the tub.
• Use rinse aid and dishwasher cleaner regularly: A rinse aid improves drying and helps prevent water spots, while running a Bosch dishwasher cleaning cycle with a Bosch-approved cleaner every few months keeps buildup under control.

When to Call a Pro Instead of DIY

Some issues are better left to a trained technician, especially when it comes to high-end appliances like a Bosch dishwasher. If standing water isn’t draining properly, if odors persist even after a full cleaning, or if you’re dealing with mechanical or drainage issues, it’s time to get expert help. Wilshire’s factory-trained appliance repair technicians specialize in Bosch dishwashers and can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my Bosch dishwasher?

Every one to two months is ideal, especially for the filter and spray arms.

What’s the best cleaner for Bosch dishwashers?

A Bosch dishwasher cleaner or a descaler recommended by Bosch works best.

Why does my Bosch dishwasher still smell after cleaning?

There may be food buildup in the filter, pump, or drain that needs extra attention.

Can I use vinegar and baking soda in a Bosch dishwasher?

Yes, both are safe and effective for deodorizing and removing buildup.

Should I remove the filter every time I run the dishwasher?

No, but it should be removed and cleaned about once a month.

Call Wilshire for Bosch Dishwasher Service & Repair

If your Bosch dishwasher still isn’t performing like it should, Wilshire’s team of factory-trained technicians is here to help. We specialize in luxury appliance care with the precision and expertise your kitchen deserves. Book a cleaning or repair service with Wilshire today to get your dishwasher back in top shape. For same-day service, call us at (818) 898-9999 today!