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Put Down the Bleach: How Cleaning Compounds Can Kill Your Dishwasher

You count on your dishwasher to cut down on your workload. If your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be providing the same level of service as it did before, it’s time to evaluate the products you’ve been using. After all, some dishwasher problems are caused by using the wrong types of detergent or cleaner. Thankfully, avoiding these issues is as simple as making sure that you’re selecting the right products to care for your dishwasher.

Are You Using the Right Cleaners in Your Dishwasher?

No matter how new or old your dishwasher is, using the right types of detergents and cleaning products is key to ensuring its efficiency, performance and longevity. When choosing a detergent, you should always look for a product that’s clearly labeled for use in dishwashers. These may take the forms of liquids, gels, powders or self-contained packs. All of these types of detergent are completely safe for use in your dishwasher.

However, there are products that you should avoid using in your dishwasher because they may affect its performance or lead to costly breakdowns. First and foremost, it’s important to avoid using liquid dishwashing soap, hand soap or laundry soap in the dishwasher because these substances can create serious, sudsy messes and cause breakdowns. You should also avoid using any other type of household or industrial cleaner that’s not specifically labeled for use in a dishwasher.

How to Safely Disinfect Your Dishwasher

Many homeowners would like to disinfect or clean their dishwashers but are unsure of how to do so without causing any harm to the appliance or themselves. The first step in cleaning your dishwasher should always be to remove all components that you can and wash them in clean, soapy water. While you’re waiting for removable components to dry, wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with a sponge soaked in warm water.

If you’ve noticed mold or mildew buildup in your dishwasher, there are some simple steps you can take to kill these harmful substances. Try running a few capfuls of vinegar through the dishwasher while it’s empty. You should also avoid using bleach if you have a stainless steel dishwasher since the chlorine in bleach can degrade this type of metal.

If mold or mildew problems persist, it’s a good idea to call in an appliance repair professional. Browse our site or give us a call today to find out how the friendly, professional staff at ABC Home & Commercial Services in Austin can help take care of your dishwasher.

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