**How’s your kitchen looking today? I hope it’s starting to sparkle! Today, we’re going to clean a machine that helps keep things clean: the dishwasher.**
**Clean Your Dishwasher**
Let’s focus on deep cleaning the dishwasher. It requires some scrubbing, but it’s worth it for an efficient appliance and spotless dishes. We tackled the dishwasher earlier this year, but if you need step-by-step instructions, here’s how to do it:
**How to Clean the Dishwasher:**
1. Using an old toothbrush, scrub the following areas of your dishwasher:
– Around the door frame (pay special attention to the bottom of the door hinges)
– In the detergent dispenser
– Behind the silverware rack
– Under the float valve (the small part in the bottom of the dishwasher that seems to be in the way)
– Around any plastic parts connected to the top or bottom of the dishwasher
– Inside the door vent (if it’s removable, you may be surprised by what you find!)
2. Depending on how much residue remains after scrubbing, you might want to wipe it up with a paper towel. If you’re feeling squeamish (like I do), consider using a plastic grocery bag as a barrier between your hand and the paper towel.
3. After cleaning the areas mentioned above, use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the door frame.
4. Place a cup full of vinegar in the top rack of your empty dishwasher and run it on the hottest cycle possible. This will disinfect the dishwasher. If you have a serious mold or mildew issue and don’t mind using bleach, you can pour a cup of bleach into the bottom of the dishwasher instead of the vinegar. Just remember to use bleach sparingly and never in a dishwasher with a stainless-steel interior door.
5. Refill the rinse aid dispenser (vinegar works great), and enjoy your freshly cleaned dishwasher!
**Happy Cleaning!**
**Your assignment for today:**
– Continue working on Habit #5.
– Clean your dishwasher.
– Add this task to your Rainbow calendar and keep working on it.
