How to Get Rid of Fishy Smell in Dishwasher

Dishwashers can develop a lingering fishy odor if food particles, grease, or buildup stay behind after cycles. This guide provides practical steps to identify the source of the smell and restore a fresh, clean scent to your appliance using common cleaning tools and safe practices for American homes.

Addressing odors in the dishwasher not only improves scent but also helps maintain overall dishwasher performance and food hygiene. The following sections offer a clear, actionable method that you can follow step by step.

Quick Answer

Start with a thorough cleaning cycle using an odor-removing cleaning product, then sanitize and dry the interior. Clean the filters, door seal, and spray arms, and run a hot cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner or a white vinegar rinse if your model allows it. Regular maintenance every few months helps prevent odors from returning.

What You’ll Need

Dishwasher deodorizer tablets lemon scent
Dishwasher cleaning brush and scrubber kit
Dishwasher filter cleaning brush
Dishwasher odor remover spray
Automatic dishwasher freshening tablet

	Refrigerator Coil Cleaning Brush，Sewer Set Brush Clog Remover,for Toilet, Kitchen Sink, Sewer, Bathroom Bathtub Hair Clogging Cleaning Tool，Long Drain Brush
	Holikme 6 Pack Dish Brush Kitchen Brushes Set with Vegetable Palm Brush, Bottle Brush, Dish Brush and Straw Brush, Fruit Cleaning Brushes for Cleaning Potato Skillet Wok Pot Pan Cast Iron, Yellow
	Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria, Limescale, Mineral Deposits & Grime Inside Pump, Tub & Hoses, 6 Tablets, 6 Month Supply

Before You Start

Ensure the dishwasher is empty before beginning any cleaning. Check the drain for clogs and inspect the door gasket for mold or slime. Use gloves to protect hands when handling cleaners. Plan for at least 60 minutes to complete the process, plus possible additional time for drying cycles. Careful handling of chemical cleaners is essential; never mix products unless specified by the manufacturer.

Step-By-Step: How To Get Rid Of Fishy Smell In Dishwasher

Run an empty hot wash with a dishwasher deodorizer tablet to melt away residue and neutralize odors.
Remove and inspect the filter; use the dishwasher filter cleaning brush to scrub away trapped food particles.
Wipe the interior surfaces, including the door gasket, with a dishwasher odor remover spray to eliminate biofilm buildup.
Clean the spray arms by gently removing and rinsing any blocked holes; use a brush to clear debris not accessible by hand.
Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs and clear any obstructions to improve drainage and prevent odor recirculation.
Run a second hot cycle with an automatic dishwasher freshening tablet to leave a clean scent and seal the interior.
Leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after cycles to allow complete ventilation and drying, reducing moisture that promotes odors.
Regularly schedule maintenance every 1–3 months, including quick wipe-downs of seals and a quick filter check before loading.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Likely Cause	Fix	Prevention
Persistent fishy odor after cycles	Biofilm on door seal or spray arms	Wipe seal with odor remover spray; clean spray arms and filters	Clean monthly; promptly remove food debris
Damp, musty smell	Moisture and improper drying	Keep door slightly ajar after cycles; run heat-dry if available	Ventilate kitchen after cycles
Bad odor only with certain cycles	Residual grease buildup in hard-to-reach areas	Deep clean interior and filters; sanitize with a cleaner	Use a pre-rinse for heavily soiled dishes
Odor returns quickly	Infrequent maintenance	Schedule regular cleaning with products designed for dishwashers	Set a quarterly reminder for maintenance

Common Mistakes

Using vinegar or citric acid sprays in combination with bleach or ammonia-based cleaners
Neglecting the filter and door gasket during routine cleaning
Running cycles with dirty dishes that release odor-causing residues mid-cycle

Addressing these pitfalls helps maintain a fresh odor and prolongs the life of the appliance.

Tips For Best Results

Clean the interior and exterior surfaces at the same time for a uniform scent elimination.
Use a lemon-scented product to impart a light, pleasant fragrance without overpowering the kitchen.
Rotate cleaning products to prevent chemical buildup and to target different areas of the dishwasher.
Inspect seals for mold; if present, treat with a dedicated spray and wipe clean thoroughly.
After cleaning, run an empty cycle with hot water to ensure residues are flushed away.

Call A Professional

Consider contacting a professional if the odor persists after comprehensive cleaning, if you notice standing water, unusual noises, or if the appliance fails to drain properly. Signs that indicate a possible mechanical issue or persistent mold growth warrant expert evaluation.

FAQ

How often should I clean my dishwasher to prevent fishy odors?

Clean the interior and filters every 1–3 months, with a deep clean every 3–6 months depending on usage and water quality.

Can I use vinegar to remove odor?

Vinegar can help, but avoid using it with bleach or ammonia-based cleaners. If used, run an empty hot cycle afterwards to rinse.

Will dishwasher deodorizer tablets leave a scent on my dishes?

Most deodorizer tablets are formulated to neutralize odors without transferring strong scents to dishes; lemon or fresh scents are typically mild.

What’s the best way to prevent future odors?

Regularly inspect and clean filters, seals, and spray arms; avoid leaving dirty dishes in the dishwasher for extended periods; run hot cycles occasionally for sanitation.

Buying Guide

Choosing the right products and setting up effective routines can keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and performing well. Here are key buying factors to consider:

Size and capacity: Match products to your dishwasher’s model and the size of your household to ensure you can reach all areas during cleaning.
Odor control strength: Look for lemon-scented or neutral formulas designed for dishwashers, with a balance between cleaning power and fragrance.
Energy efficiency: Many cleaners and freshening tablets are energy-neutral, but always check whether a product requires a full hot cycle or uses standard dishwasher settings.
Controls and compatibility: Ensure the products work with timing features like quick wash or sanitize cycles and do not void warranties.
Placement and ease of use: Opt for spray bottles, foaming sprays, or tablet formats that fit your routine and storage space.

When comparing products, consider how a solution fits into your maintenance routine, how it targets common odor sources, and whether it complements your dishwasher’s cleaning cycle. A well-chosen combination of deodorizing tablets, a dedicated cleaning brush kit, and a reliable odor remover spray offers a practical, at-home path to long-lasting freshness.