How to Remove Rust from Dishwasher Interior

Where Does Dishwasher Rust Come From?

Rust inside a dishwasher is more common than most people realize, and it usually comes from one of three sources: chipped or worn rack coating exposing the metal wire underneath, rusty items placed in the dishwasher (cast iron, old baking pans, or damaged utensils), or rust transferred from the water supply in older homes with iron pipes. The rust deposits on the interior walls, the tub floor, and the door, leaving orange-brown stains that look alarming but are usually treatable.

Types of Rust in a Dishwasher

• Surface rust staining: Orange-brown stains on the interior walls or tub floor from rust particles in the water or transferred from rusty items. Treatable with the right cleaner.
• Rack rust: Rust from chipped rack coating. The rack itself needs repair or replacement to stop the source.
• Structural rust: Rust on the dishwasher body or components. May indicate a more serious issue requiring professional service.

What You'll Need

• CLR Calcium Lime & Rust Remover
• Bar Keepers Friend (for stainless steel interiors)
• Rubber gloves
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Microfiber cloth

CLR Calcium Lime & Rust Remover is the most effective product for dissolving rust stains from dishwasher interiors. Its oxalic and lactic acid formula dissolves iron oxide (rust) on contact. For stainless steel interiors, Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser removes rust staining without scratching the stainless surface. Always wear rubber gloves when using either product.

Method 1: CLR Treatment (Most Effective for Plastic Tubs)

Step 1: Empty and Prepare

Empty the dishwasher completely. Put on rubber gloves and ensure good ventilation.

Step 2: Dilute CLR

Mix CLR with warm water according to the product instructions — typically 1 part CLR to 8 parts water for dishwasher use.

Step 3: Apply to Rust Stains

Apply the diluted CLR solution to the rust-stained areas with a soft sponge or cloth. Let it sit for 2 minutes — the rust stains will begin to dissolve visibly. Do not leave CLR on surfaces longer than recommended.

Step 4: Wipe and Rinse

Wipe away the dissolved rust with a damp cloth. Rinse the treated areas thoroughly with clean water.

Step 5: Run Two Rinse Cycles

Run two full rinse cycles with plain water before using the dishwasher for dishes. This ensures all CLR residue is completely flushed from the system.

Method 2: Bar Keepers Friend (Best for Stainless Steel Interiors)

Step 1: Wet the Surface

Dampen the rust-stained area with water.

Step 2: Apply Bar Keepers Friend

Apply Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser directly to the rust stain. Use a damp soft sponge to work it into the stain in circular motions. The oxalic acid in Bar Keepers Friend dissolves rust staining effectively without scratching stainless steel.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. Bar Keepers Friend should not be left on surfaces. Run a rinse cycle before using the dishwasher.

Method 3: Citric Acid Cycle (For Widespread Rust Staining)

For rust staining spread across multiple interior surfaces, a citric acid cycle treats the entire interior at once:

Step 1: Dissolve 3 tablespoons of citric acid powder in a cup of warm water and pour into the bottom of the empty dishwasher.

Step 2: Run a full hot cycle. The citric acid solution circulates and dissolves rust staining throughout the interior.

Step 3: Run a plain water rinse cycle afterward.

Fix the Source: Rack Rust

If the rust is coming from chipped dishwasher rack coating, treating the stains alone won't solve the problem — the rack will continue to rust and re-stain the interior. Options:

• Rack repair: Apply dishwasher rack repair coating (available at hardware stores) to the chipped areas. This re-seals the exposed metal and stops rusting.
• Rack replacement: Replacement racks are available for most dishwasher models and are often more cost-effective than repeated rust treatment.
• Rack tip caps: Replace worn or missing rack tip caps — these protect the wire ends from rusting.

How to Prevent Rust in the Dishwasher

• Never put cast iron, carbon steel, or rusty items in the dishwasher.
• Inspect racks regularly for chipped coating and repair immediately.
• Run a monthly citric acid cycle to prevent rust staining from building up.
• If your water supply has high iron content, consider a whole-house water filter.

Final Thoughts

Rust staining in a dishwasher is treatable in most cases. CLR handles plastic tub rust effectively, Bar Keepers Friend works on stainless steel, and a citric acid cycle addresses widespread staining. Always fix the source — usually chipped rack coating — to prevent the rust from returning.