We’ve all been there—you run the dishwasher expecting sparkling clean, odor-free dishware, only to open it and find that everything smells faintly like a wet dog. It’s frustrating, right?
If you think it’s just your machine, think again. This strange “wet dog” smell is actually more common than you might think. Many New Jersey homeowners have reported this exact issue when calling us for dishwasher repairs, wondering if they’re imagining it. Rest assured, you’re not alone!
What’s Causing the ‘Wet Dog’ Smell?
The culprit behind the “wet dog” odor is often lingering bacteria or mildly contaminated water in your dishwasher. When water or food particles aren’t fully rinsed away, bacteria can accumulate and release a strange smell as they dry. This can be caused by leftover food debris, stagnant water, or poor drainage inside the dishwasher.
While this smell doesn’t pose a health risk (your dishes are still washed at high temperatures and with detergents), it’s certainly not pleasant, and it may make you think twice before using your plates, cups, and silverware again.
How to get rid of the “Wet Dog” Smell in Your Dishwasher
Don’t worry! There are several ways to tackle this issue and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh:
Allow the Dishwasher to Air Out
After the cycle is complete, leave the dishwasher door slightly open for a while to allow the unit to air out and dry properly.
Use Bleach for a Quick Fix
After a full cycle, add a small amount of bleach to the tub below the dish rack, then close the dishwasher and let it sit for about an hour. Afterward, remove the dishes, rinse them with cold water, and dry them thoroughly by hand.
Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar
To clean out lingering odors and bacteria, run a cleaning cycle with white distilled vinegar in the unit. Vinegar helps break down buildup and neutralizes odors effectively.
Ensure Proper Dishwasher Functioning
Check that your dishwasher is running efficiently and performing as it should. Use a rinse aid to improve the overall cleanliness and performance of your machine.
Clean Out the Filters and Drain
Over time, food particles and grime can build up in the dishwasher’s filter and at the bottom of the unit, leading to unpleasant smells. Regularly clean out the filter to avoid this issue.
Pre-rinse Dishes Before Loading
As a preventative measure, rinse your dishes with cold water before putting them in the dishwasher. This will help minimize food debris and bacteria buildup in your appliance.
Still Smelling That “Wet Dog” Odor? Call Immediate Appliance!
If you’ve tried all of the above and the problem persists, it may be time to call a professional. An underlying issue, such as a clogged drain or malfunctioning component, could be causing the smell. Immediate Appliance is here to help with New Jersey dishwasher repair!
We offer same-day and emergency appliance repair services across Freehold and the surrounding areas in New Jersey, 365 days a year.
If your dishwasher needs servicing, or if you’re noticing other issues with its performance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our skilled technicians will diagnose the problem and provide an efficient solution, so you can enjoy fresh, clean dishes without the unwanted odor.