Samsung Dishwasher Smells Bad? Here’s How to Clean It

Even if your dishwasher produces sparkling results, bad odors can make even the cleanest dishes seem dirty. What should I do when my Samsung dishwasher smells bad? Cleaning the interior and filter and eliminating clogs can reduce odor. Learn how to clean a Samsung dishwasher with simple steps that pinpoint odor at the source.

Follow These Cleaning Steps to Eliminate Samsung Dishwasher Smells

While regular cleanings are crucial to reduce and prevent odor, they also ensure optimal operation and prevent repairs. But before we detail our simple cleaning steps, it’s important to know why your Samsung dishwasher smells bad.

Why Does My Samsung Dishwasher Stink?

Even though the dishwasher drains detergent, water, and food particles during every cleaning cycle, lingering residue and remnants can remain behind. A Samsung dishwasher smells bad when these particles break down, producing mold and mildew. Since the dishwasher filter acts as a catchall for debris, it can also be a source of bad smells if food particles are allowed to accumulate. Even the door gasket can result in a smelly dishwasher if not cleaned regularly to remove grease, crumbs, and residue.

The steps below detail how to fix a smelly dishwasher with the right cleaning methods and supplies.

How to Clean Dishwasher Interior

What is the best way to clean the inside of a dishwasher? Samsung recommends regular routine cleanings that include running the Sanitize cycle with white vinegar to remove odor and stains. Less frequent deep cleanings should also include the nozzles, filter, and dishwasher drain.

Here’s how to clean the dishwasher interior with white vinegar:

1. Pour 8 oz of distilled white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it in the lower basket of the empty dishwasher.
2. Select the Sanitize button. This cycle uses hotter temperatures that best activate the vinegar’s acids to break down stains and odor.
3. If odor persists, run a second Sanitize cycle after sprinkling 1 cup of baking soda in the base of the empty dishwasher.
4. For persistent mold and mildew, pour 1 cup of bleach in a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it in the dishwasher’s empty lower basket. Run a complete wash cycle. Skip this step if the dishwasher’s parts or interior are made of stainless steel, as bleach can cause permanent discoloration.

Samsung Dishwasher Filter Cleaning

A Samsung dishwasher filter collects food particles and debris to prevent them from clogging the drain. However, these particles can develop smelly mold and mildew without regular deep cleanings. 

While most filters can be removed for cleaning, some model dishwashers don’t have removable filters. Before attempting to clean the filter, consult your user manual to make sure it’s removable on your dishwasher.

Here’s how to clean a Samsung dishwasher filter to remove odor:

1. Take out the bottom rack.
2. Unfasten the filter compartment door by turning the handle counterclockwise.
3. Open the door and take out the filter.
4. Rinse the filter under running water and wipe down the filter compartment and door.
5. Reinstall the filter, replace the door, and turn the handle clockwise to lock in place.
6. Replace the bottom rack.

Clear Out Dishwasher Clogs

Clogs in several possible locations are common causes when your Samsung dishwasher smells bad. If odor persists after routine and deep cleanings and the dishwasher won’t drain, it’s likely that a clog is responsible.

Follow these steps to assess and resolve dishwasher clogs:

1. Clear the garbage disposal: Always run the disposal before starting a dishwasher cycle to ensure that their shared drain is free of debris. If the clog is in the disposal’s hose, disconnect the hose and use a stiff wire to remove the blockage.
2. Clean the air gap: If your kitchen has an air gap, remove the cap and scoop away any accumulated debris with a paper towel.
3. Break up drain clogs: After accessing the drain, use a straightened wire hanger to remove any visible blockages. To remove unseen clogs, pour 1 Tbsp of baking soda and 2 Tbsps of vinegar down the drain hole. Allow both to sit for 10-15 minutes. Pour hot water down the drain to flush away any lingering debris.

If bad smells persist after trying these cleaning tips, it may be time for a dishwasher repair service to assess the problem. Contact Apex Appliance Service for a prompt and professional solution!