How to clean spray arms on a dishwasher to improve cleaning quality?

 

Why It's Important to Regularly Clean Your Dishwasher Spray Arms

 

Dishwasher spray arms play a crucial role in effectively cleaning your dishes. Over time, food particles, mineral buildup, and grease can clog the small spray nozzles, reducing water flow and cleaning efficiency. Regularly cleaning the spray arms ensures better dishwasher performance, reduces cycle time, helps conserve water and energy, and extends the lifespan of your appliance. Additionally, it can prevent unpleasant odors from accumulating inside the dishwasher.

Residents in busy urban areas like St Louis and vibrant cities such as Nashville often experience problems related to hard water and mineral deposits. Routine maintenance steps like cleaning the spray arms can significantly improve dishwasher performance for households in these cities.

 

What You Will Need to Clean Dishwasher Spray Arms

 

Here’s a checklist of supplies you will need before you begin cleaning your dishwasher spray arms:

• Warm water
• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• An old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
• Toothpick or straight pin
• Dish soap
• Sponge or soft cloth

 

Step-by-Step Guide on Cleaning Dishwasher Spray Arms

 

Step A: Remove the Spray Arms from the Dishwasher

Begin by fully emptying your dishwasher. Next, remove the bottom dish rack to access the lower spray arm. Most spray arms can be removed by twisting counterclockwise or gently lifting upward; refer to your dishwasher owner's manual for specific instructions on how to remove the arms safely. Follow the same method to remove upper and middle spray arms, if applicable.

Step B: Inspect Spray Arms Thoroughly

Carefully inspect each spray arm for cracks, damage, or significant wear and tear. Check the tiny holes on each arm that spray water for clogs or buildup. Even small blockages can greatly reduce washing performance.

Step C: Soak Spray Arms in Vinegar Solution

In a sink or large basin, prepare a solution using equal parts warm water and distilled white vinegar. Submerge each spray arm completely in the solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Vinegar is effective at breaking down grease, calcium and mineral deposits, and softening debris.

Step D: Clear Spray Nozzle Holes

After soaking, use a straightened paperclip, toothpick, or pin to gently clear debris from each spray hole. Take your time and carefully clear all clogged openings, being careful not to widen or damage the holes.

Step E: Scrub and Clean the Spray Arms

Using an old toothbrush or small cleaning brush dipped in a bit of baking soda and dish soap, gently scrub each spray arm, paying special attention around the spray holes. Baking soda’s gentle abrasiveness helps dislodge tough dirt and residue without damaging the arm surfaces.

Step F: Rinse & Dry Thoroughly

Rinse the spray arms under warm water to completely wash away any loosened debris, soap, baking soda, and vinegar residues. Pausing here to ensure all spray arms are completely clean is key to improved dishwasher cleaning quality. Then, gently dry the spray arms with a clean towel or soft cloth.

Step G: Check & Clean the Dishwasher Interior

Once spray arms are removed, it is a good idea to quickly inspect and clean the dishwasher’s bottom drain area, filter, and interior walls. Wipe the interior surfaces gently with a sponge dipped in mild detergent solution to maintain overall dishwasher cleanliness and efficiency.

Step H: Reassemble & Run a Test Cycle

Reattach the clean spray arms into their rightful positions by securely reattaching and twisting clockwise or pushing downward, as indicated by your dishwasher owner's manual. Put back the dishwasher racks you previously removed. Run an empty dishwasher cycle without detergent to flush out any remaining debris and residue. Consider using a vinegar rinse cycle if any odor or deposits remain.

 

Conclusion and Maintenance Recommendation

 

Regularly cleaning your dishwasher’s spray arms can lead to significantly better cleaning performance, energy efficiency, and appliance longevity. We recommend repeating this cleaning process at least every 3-4 months to maintain optimal dishwasher performance and cleanliness. If you experience continued dishwasher issues even after following these steps, consulting a reputable appliance specialist serving either the St Louis or Nashville area may be advised.