Camilla Jessen
Your dishwasher works hard—these clever, little-known tricks will keep it smelling fresh, grease-free, and performing like new.
We often take our dishwashers for granted. They power through piles of dirty plates, greasy pans, and cloudy glasses without a complaint.
But just like any other kitchen helper, your dishwasher needs a bit of TLC to stay fresh, clean, and efficient.
If your dishes aren’t smelling as fresh as they should — or if your machine’s developed a musty odor — it’s time for a mini makeover.
Here are three unusual but super effective tricks to freshen up your dishwasher and tackle hidden grease and grime.
1. The Lemon Face Mask Trick
Yes, you read that right — a leftover face mask and half a lemon can do wonders.
How it works:
- Take a clean, unused face mask (the disposable kind).
- Cut one side about 2 cm from the edge to create a little pouch.
- Fill it with bite-sized lemon pieces (half a lemon is enough).
- Twist the mask’s strap to secure the lemon inside.
- Hang it on the top rack of your dishwasher, making sure it won’t block anything.
Why it works: The citric acid in lemons naturally cuts through grease, removes odors, and adds a fresh scent. You can even use less detergent during the cycle — the lemon helps boost cleaning power!
2. Vinegar Ice Cubes
This trick fights stubborn grease in a cool way.
How to make them:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze.
- Drop a few vinegar cubes into the cutlery basket before your next wash.
Why it works: As the cubes melt, they slowly release vinegar, which helps dissolve built-up grease and freshens the machine — all without harsh chemicals.
3. Baby Oil for the Door Seal
The rubber seal on your dishwasher door does a lot — but it’s often forgotten.
How to care for it:
- Put a few drops of baby oil (or neutral cooking oil) on a soft cloth.
- Gently rub it along the rubber seal around the door.
- Wipe away any extra oil so it doesn’t drip into the machine.
Why it works: This keeps the rubber supple and sealed, preventing cracks, leaks, and unpleasant odors. Doing this every 2–3 months takes only minutes but can extend the life of your dishwasher.
These tricks are easy, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious, using simple items you probably already have at home.
Try them out and enjoy dishes that are not only clean — but fresh and sparkling too!
This was inspired by an article in Freundin.