How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar: The Easy Natural Deep-Clean Method

White vinegar is a powerhouse natural cleaner that works exceptionally well in dishwashers. Its acetic acid dissolves limescale and mineral deposits, cuts through grease and soap scum, and neutralizes odors — all without harsh chemicals. Best of all, it costs almost nothing and takes just minutes to set up.

Why Use Vinegar to Clean Your Dishwasher?

• Dissolves mineral deposits: Hard water leaves limescale on the interior walls, heating element, and spray arms. Vinegar dissolves it effectively.
• Cuts grease: Acetic acid breaks down grease and soap scum buildup.
• Eliminates odors: Vinegar neutralizes odor-causing bacteria and food residue smells.
• Safe and natural: No harsh chemicals, no residue on your dishes.
• Cheap: A bottle of white vinegar costs a fraction of commercial dishwasher cleaners.

What You'll Need

• White vinegar (1-2 cups)
• A dishwasher-safe cup or bowl
• Baking soda (optional, for a second cycle)
• Microfiber cloth (for wiping down before the cycle)

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Dishwasher with Vinegar

Step 1: Prep the dishwasher

Remove all dishes. Clean the filter first (see our dishwasher filter cleaning guide) and wipe down the door gasket and interior walls with a damp microfiber cloth to remove loose debris.

Step 2: Place the vinegar

Fill a dishwasher-safe cup or bowl with 1-2 cups of white vinegar. Place it upright on the bottom rack of the empty dishwasher. Do not pour vinegar into the detergent dispenser — it will be released too early in the cycle.

Step 3: Run a hot water cycle

Run the dishwasher on the hottest, longest cycle available (usually "Heavy" or "Sanitize"). The hot water will mix with the vinegar and circulate throughout the interior, dissolving deposits and killing bacteria.

Step 4: Optional baking soda follow-up

Once the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot cycle. The baking soda deodorizes and brightens the interior, removing any remaining stains.

Important: Never mix vinegar and baking soda in the same cycle — they neutralize each other. Run them separately.

Step 5: Wipe down the exterior

Wipe the outside of the dishwasher door and control panel with a damp microfiber cloth.

How Often Should You Run a Vinegar Cycle?

Once a month for most households. If you have hard water, every 2-3 weeks helps prevent mineral buildup.

Vinegar vs. Commercial Dishwasher Cleaners

Vinegar is excellent for regular maintenance and mineral deposit removal. For a deeper clean that reaches internal components like the pump and hoses, use an Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner tablet once a month — it's specifically formulated to clean parts that vinegar can't fully reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to put vinegar in the dishwasher?

Yes — white vinegar is safe for dishwasher interiors. Place it in a cup on the bottom rack, not in the detergent dispenser. Avoid using it if your dishwasher has rubber components that the manufacturer warns against acid exposure.

Will vinegar damage my dishwasher?

Used correctly (in a cup on the rack, not poured directly), vinegar is safe. Repeated direct contact with rubber seals over time may cause minor degradation, which is why placing it in a cup is recommended.

How much vinegar do I use to clean a dishwasher?

1-2 cups placed in a dishwasher-safe cup on the bottom rack is sufficient for a full cleaning cycle.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

White vinegar is preferred — it's colorless and won't stain. Apple cider vinegar works but may leave a slight brown tint in some cases.