Why Does Your Kenmore Dishwasher Smell?
A smelly dishwasher is unpleasant and can transfer odors to your supposedly clean dishes. The smell usually originates from food particles decomposing in the filter, mold or mildew on the door gasket, or standing water trapped in the drain area. All are fixable.
Source 1: Dirty Filter
The filter is the primary odor source in most cases. Food particles trapped in the filter break down anaerobically, producing sulfur-like odors. Remove and clean the filter with warm water, dish soap, and a brush. If the filter smells even after washing, soak it in white vinegar for 30 minutes.
Source 2: Door Gasket
The rubber door gasket traps moisture and food particles in its folds, creating a perfect environment for mold and mildew. Wipe the entire gasket inside the folds with a cloth dampened with white vinegar or a mild bleach solution (do not use undiluted bleach on rubber). Do this monthly.
Source 3: Standing Water in the Base
If there is visible standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle, the drain is partially blocked. Clean the filter, check the drain hose, and run a rinse cycle to verify proper draining. Standing water breeds bacteria rapidly.
Source 4: Spray Arm Ports
Food debris inside the spray arms decomposes and causes odors that are then distributed around the dishwasher interior during every cycle. Remove and thoroughly rinse both spray arms.
Complete Deodorizing Process
- Clean the filter completely.
- Wipe the door gasket and interior walls.
- Clean spray arms.
- Run an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
- Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short hot cycle.
Prevention
Leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after every cycle to allow the interior to dry. Moisture is what causes mold and bacterial growth. Clean the filter monthly.