How To Clean My Portable Dishwasher [ULTIMATE Guide + 8 Steps ]

Originally Created on: April 5, 2023 @ 1:42 pm

How to clean my portable dishwasher is a question you may have asked yourself, especially if you already own one.

Portable dishwashers are convenient appliances that allow you to get clean dishes in just moments, no more scrubbing away those baked-on pasta stains.

Have you ever come home after a long day at work to find your dishes piled up in the sink, waiting to be washed?

Sure, washing them by hand is one way of tackling the task but it can take quite some time and effort. Instead, why not use a portable dishwasher?

But like any other appliance, they need regular cleaning and maintenance.

In this blog post, I’ll share with you how to properly clean your portable dishwasher so that it stays working efficiently for years to come.

From sanitizing cycles to descaling it on occasion, I’ve got all the tips for keeping your little helper running at its best.

Also Read: Does a Portable Dishwasher Need Hot Water? [The BEST Answer]

How to Clean My Portable Dishwasher

Cleaning a portable dishwasher is essential to maintain its efficiency and performance. Here are some easy steps to help you get your dishwasher sparkling clean: 

1. Run the empty dishwasher on the longest cycle with hot water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda added to the detergent dispenser. This helps remove odors and excess food particles.

2. Place a cup of white vinegar in the upper rack and run it through another cycle. This will help dissolve any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have built up over time. 

3. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the interior walls of the dishwasher with equal parts of warm water and white vinegar. This will help remove any dirt, grease, or grime that has built up on the walls.

4. Clean out the filter, which is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher, by running it under warm water and scrubbing away any food particles. 

5. Wipe down the outside of the dishwasher with a soft, damp cloth. 

6. If your dishwasher has removable racks, take them out and scrub away any food particles. Place them back in the dishwasher after you’ve finished cleaning them. 

7. Run one more cycle of hot water to make sure all of the vinegar has been removed from the dishwasher. 

8. Finally, give your dishwasher a fresh scent by adding a few drops of essential oil to the rinse cycle. This will leave your dishes smelling great. 

By following these steps, you can keep your dishwasher clean and running smoothly. Cleaning it regularly will also help extend its life. So give your dishwasher some love, and keep it sparkling clean. 

Preparing to Clean Your Portable Dishwasher

Before starting the cleaning process of your portable dishwasher, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary supplies.

Cleaning supplies such as a sponge, dish soap, an old toothbrush, and vinegar are essential for deep cleaning your portable dishwasher.

Additionally, you should wear protective gloves to protect your hands from any possible bacteria or other contaminants.

The first step of the cleaning process is to remove all dishes and racks from the dishwasher. You should also check for any loose debris at the bottom of the unit and clean it off before proceeding with the deep-cleaning process.

Once you have removed all dishes and racks, fill a container with enough hot water to cover the bottom of the dishwasher.

Then, add 1/2 cup of vinegar or baking soda and stir until it is dissolved into the water. Place a sponge or cloth in the solution and use it to scrub away any food particles on the interior walls and other surfaces of your portable dishwasher.

Why You Should Clean Your Portable Dishwasher

Cleaning your portable dishwasher regularly is important for ensuring it continues to run effectively and efficiently.

Doing so will help prevent lime or mineral buildup, which can clog the machine’s internal parts and lead to poor performance. It can also help reduce odors from forming in your kitchen.

Additionally, regular cleaning may enhance your portable dishwasher’s lifespan, allowing you to enjoy it for longer. 

To properly clean your portable dishwasher, start by wiping down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth. Use warm water and mild detergent if necessary.

Once the main body has been wiped down, it’s time to move on to the filters. Clean any removable filters with a soft brush and warm, soapy water.

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Allow the filters to dry before reinstalling them. For non-removable filters, use a vacuum cleaner attachment to remove any loose debris.

How to Maintain Your Portable Dishwasher

Cleaning and maintaining your portable dishwasher is essential for ensuring it works efficiently and lasts for many years. Here are some tips to help you keep your appliance in tip-top shape: 

Run a cycle with nothing but white vinegar once a month	This will help remove any mineral deposits from the interior of the dishwasher and keep it working efficiently
Clean the filter regularly	The dishwasher filter should be cleaned every two to four weeks, depending on how often you use your appliance. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning the filter.
Use a special detergent for portable dishwashers	Many standard detergents are too harsh for portable dishwashers and can damage the interior. Look for a detergent specifically designed for portable appliances.
Use the right cycle	Depending on the type of dishes you’re washing, pick the appropriate cycle to ensure that your dishes come out clean and sparkling every time.
Keep pipes clear	Use a vinegar-water solution to keep the drain pipes of your dishwasher clear and free from debris. Make sure to clean out any clogs before running a cycle.
Clean the rubber seal	The rubber seal around the door can trap food particles and moisture, leading to mold growth and unpleasant odors. To prevent this, make sure to wipe down the seal often and give it a thorough cleaning every few months.
Check for buildup	Over time, detergent and hard water deposits can accumulate on the interior of your dishwasher and cause damage. Make sure to inspect the interior regularly for any signs of residue or build-up and clean it out with a damp cloth if necessary.
Check the filters	Dishwashers typically have several filters, including a coarse filter, fine filter and pre-rinse filter. Make sure to check these regularly for any signs of blockage and clean them as needed.

Conclusion

Cleaning a portable dishwasher is a critical aspect of kitchen hygiene and maintenance. It ensures that our dishes are clean and free from bacteria and other germs, making us safe from potential food poisoning or other health hazards.

Not to mention, keeping our dishwasher always in tip-top condition helps it last longer so that we can get our money’s worth.

Although the task of cleaning it may be daunting, with regular maintenance, we can make sure that our families will continue to enjoy meals cooked with clean dishes for years to come.

Therefore, if you have a portable dishwasher at home, remember to take some time out of your schedule to diligently keep it maintained, you’ll reap the benefits soon enough.