Food particles, grease and other organic matter can become trapped in parts of the dishwasher that are easy to overlook. Because the appliance stays warm and damp, those residues can quickly produce unpleasant odors, home-care analyst Noah Pinsonnault told Good Housekeeping.

Before using strong cleaners or taking the appliance apart, a few simple checks and regular maintenance steps can often solve the problem and help prevent smells from returning.

A clean dishwasher. Photo from Pexels

Clean the filter

Start by removing the bottom rack and locating the filter, which is usually positioned beneath the lower spray arm. Refer to the dishwasher manual for instructions on removing it safely.

Rinse the filter under running water or wash it with warm, soapy water. A soft toothbrush can help remove food particles and grease from the mesh and frame. Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling it securely.

Pinsonnault recommends cleaning the filter about once a week to prevent debris from accumulating.

Inspect the spray arms

Food particles and mineral deposits can clog the small openings in the spray arms, reducing water flow and contributing to odors.

Check the holes for visible buildup and clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Because spray-arm designs differ between models, the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website is the best guide for removal and cleaning.

Wipe the door and gasket

Grease and food residue can also accumulate around the dishwasher door, rubber gasket and detergent dispenser.

For routine maintenance, wipe these areas and other interior surfaces once a week with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge.

Run an empty cleaning cycle

If odors remain after cleaning the filter, spray arms, door and gasket, the dishwasher may need a deeper clean.

Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher-cleaning product, following the manufacturer’s directions. This can help remove grease, detergent residue, food particles and mineral deposits from areas that are difficult to reach by hand.

Leave the door slightly open

After a wash cycle, leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar when possible.

Allowing air to circulate helps the interior dry more quickly and prevents moisture from remaining trapped inside, reducing the chance of odors developing between washes.

Some newer dishwasher models automatically open the door slightly at the end of the drying cycle.

Check for standing water

Water left at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle could indicate a drainage issue rather than a simple cleaning problem.

A clogged drain or incorrectly installed drain hose may cause dirty water to remain in the appliance or flow back into it, appliance expert Dennis Godynuk told Martha Stewart Living.

Check the drain area for visible debris. If water continues to collect or the dishwasher has a persistent sewage-like odor even after cleaning, an appliance technician or plumber may need to inspect the drainage system.