If the kitchen gets a strange, funky smell every time you open the dishwasher, you’re not alone, and you’re not imagining it. A bad smell coming from the dishwasher is more common than one might think, but that lingering odor should not be ignored. It often points to leftover food particles, trapped grease, or maybe even mold hiding inside the machine.

If you have this ongoing issue, let’s figure out exactly why the appliance smells off. We’ll show you how to remove odor from the dishwasher quickly, discuss what causes that nasty stench in the first place, offer ways to prevent it from recurring, and let readers know when it is really time to call a professional.

What’s That Smell? Main Causes of Dishwasher Odor

A bad smell from the dishwasher usually means something is not draining, drying, or getting cleaned the way it should. Consider these common reasons why the appliance smells bad, and what to check first.

1. Food Debris Left Behind

Small food particles often get trapped in the filter, the spray arms, or other hard-to-reach corners. When this debris sits and starts to rot, it creates an odor in the dishwasher that can smell like sour milk or even rotten eggs. Think about a container of leftovers left out too long. That is the smell.

2. A Clogged or Dirty Filter

The filter’s main job is to catch food scraps and grease before they try to go down the drain. If your model has a manual-clean filter, this debris must be removed regularly; if neglected, it quickly becomes a perfect spot for odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

A good rule of thumb is to check and clean a manual filter every two to four weeks, depending on how frequently the dishwasher runs. If your unit has a self-cleaning filter (one that grinds up food), you will not need to clean it manually, but a buildup of large debris can still cause issues.

3. Standing Water or Poor Drainage

If you notice standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher or slow drainage, it is a sign that bacteria can multiply rapidly. This issue often signals a clogged drain hose or a faulty drain pump, resulting in that unpleasant, lingering smell. It is a persistent, damp odor that hints at a larger problem beneath the surface.

4. Grease and Soap Scum Build-up

Over time, a film made of grease mixed with soap residue can coat the interior walls, filter, and spray arms. This buildup not only traps odors but also seriously affects how well the dishwasher actually cleans dishes. Users might notice their dishes smell bad after the cycle finishes, which is the machine basically cleaning their dishes with dirty water.

5. Mildew or Mold Around Gaskets and Seals

The rubber seals around the door are often easy to overlook, but they are a prime spot for mold and mildew growth, especially where moisture gets trapped. That musty, earthy smell coming from the appliance is almost always mold near the gasket. This is where attention to detail really pays off.

6. Plastic Items Melting or Warping

If a burning plastic smell is noticeable, one must immediately check the bottom rack. A plastic utensil or lid may have fallen onto the heating element. This releases a strong, chemical-like odor and needs to be addressed immediately before the next wash cycle starts. It is an unmistakable, sharp smell.

7. Dirty or Kinked Drain Hose

If everything inside has been cleaned thoroughly and the bad smell in the dishwasher still will not go away, the drain hose could be the culprit. A kinked or gunked-up hose prevents proper drainage and can harbor hidden odors. This part is located behind the unit and may need a professional to inspect for proper function.

How to Fix a Smelly Dishwasher Fast

When the dishwasher smells bad and a quick remedy is necessary, follow these steps to get rid of the odor and restore the appliance’s freshness.

Step 1: Clean the Filter Thoroughly

Start by removing the bottom rack and locating the filter at the base of the unit. Twist it out and rinse it under warm running water. Use a soft brush and a gentle soap to scrub away any debris or grease stuck onto the mesh.

Even a small amount of leftover food in the filter quickly leads to a bad smell from the dishwasher. Cleaning this part every few weeks is the single best action to keep odors controlled and improve cleaning performance.

Step 2: Run a Hot Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar or Dishwasher Cleaner

Place one cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a complete cycle using the hottest water setting. The vinegar helps eliminate dishwasher odor and naturally breaks down any lingering grime inside the machine.

For extra freshness, one can sprinkle a cup of baking soda directly onto the bottom of the unit and run a short, hot rinse cycle right after the vinegar wash. It is an extremely effective two-step trick that makes a huge difference in the overall scent.

Step 3: Scrub Gaskets, Seals, and Door Edges

Use a soft cloth dampened with diluted vinegar or mild soap to wipe carefully around the rubber door seals and the inner edges. Pay close attention to the small folds and creases where mold and food residue love to hide.

These spots are commonly missed during regular cleaning, yet they are one of the most frequent sources of odor in dishwashers. A quick scrub once a week keeps musty smells completely in check.

Step 4: Check for Standing Water or Drainage Issues

If standing water remains at the bottom after a cycle finishes, inspect the drain area for visible clogs first. Food particles, grease, or a blocked air gap can all cause poor drainage and encourage bacteria buildup.

Should the issue return constantly, the problem may be a clog deep inside the drain hose or an issue with the pump. If that is the case, having a certified technician examine the appliance is the most sensible solution.

Step 5: Leave the Door Open Between Cycles

Airflow is critically important for stopping moisture and mildew from taking hold. Leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after each cycle to let the interior dry out fully.

This practice is especially helpful overnight or if the appliance is not used daily. Just a small gap is often enough to make a big difference in preventing odors from building up inside the warm, wet environment.

How to Keep Dishwasher Smells from Coming Back

Once the dishwasher is smelling fresh again, adopting a few simple maintenance habits will help ensure odor does not creep back in:

• Clean the filter every two to four weeks, based on usage.
• Wipe down the door seals and interior walls weekly.
• Do not let dirty dishes sit for too long before running a cycle.
• Run an empty hot water cycle once a month with vinegar or a specialized dishwasher cleaner.
• Use rinse aid, as it minimizes residue buildup and drastically improves drying.

When Should You Call a Certified Technician Like Wilshire?

If the odor keeps returning despite thorough deep cleaning, it is absolutely time to bring in a professional. Some issues extend beyond simple home maintenance and require expert attention.

Consider a professional service if:

• The appliance has been cleaned completely, and the smell still returns.
• Water is not draining, or the bottom remains wet after a completed cycle.
• The smell is electrical or distinctly like burnt plastic.
• Gaskets or the drain hose appear damaged or are leaking water.
• A full appliance check-up from factory-trained technicians is desired.

Wilshire’s certified professionals handle luxury appliances with the required expert care, fixing underlying issues that home remedies simply cannot touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dishwasher smell even after cleaning it?

A persistent odor usually means there is hidden buildup in the drain hose, gasket, or deep within the filter housing that was missed during the cleaning process.

Can I use bleach in my dishwasher to remove odors?

Bleach is generally not recommended, especially for appliances with stainless steel interiors or certain drain components. It is best to use white vinegar or a dedicated dishwasher cleaner instead.

How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?

The filter should be cleaned every two to four weeks, depending on how often the dishwasher is used and how much food debris it typically catches.

Is vinegar or baking soda better for cleaning a smelly dishwasher?

Both are effective. Vinegar works by breaking down accumulated grime and mineral deposits, while baking soda is excellent for absorbing and neutralizing strong odors. They work best when used sequentially.

Should I leave the dishwasher door open after running it?

Yes, leaving the door cracked open after a cycle is finished dramatically improves airflow and helps the interior dry completely, which is the best way to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Tired of That Lingering Smell? Let Wilshire Help Fix It for Good

If the dishwasher still smells bad no matter what home remedies are tried, it might be time to call in a certified expert. Wilshire’s factory-trained technicians specialize in luxury appliance repair and know exactly where to look when common DIY methods fall short.

The company offers same-day or next-day service in Southern California and Las Vegas, so clients do not have to wait long. A quick service call restores the dishwasher’s performance and the kitchen’s freshness. Book an appointment today or call us at (818) 898-9999, and let the team help you breathe easy again.