How to get burnt plastic smell out of dishwasher

Are you tired of opening up your dishwasher to a wave of burnt plastic smell every time you run a load? It’s a common problem, and one that can be especially frustrating if you can’t seem to get rid of the smell no matter what you try.

But don’t worry – there are a few simple steps you can take to eliminate the burnt plastic smell from your dishwasher for good. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential causes of the smell, as well as some tried-and-true methods for getting rid of it. So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to that burnt plastic smell once and for all, keep reading and let’s see how to get burnt plastic smell out of your dishwasher.

What Causes the Burnt Plastic Smell in My Dishwasher?

There are a few different things that could be causing that burnt plastic smell in your dishwasher. The most common culprit is small bits of plastic that have found their way into the dishwasher and have gotten stuck on the heating element. When the element gets hot during a wash cycle, it can cause the plastic to melt and release a strong, unpleasant smell.

Another potential cause of the burnt plastic smell is a piece of plastic that has been wedged into the dishwasher’s spray arm. If the plastic is blocking the water flow, it can get hot and start to melt, causing the smell to waft through the dishwasher.

Finally, it’s possible that the burnt plastic smell is coming from a damaged or malfunctioning dishwasher component. In this case, you may need to call in a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.

How to Get Burnt Plastic Smell Out of Dishwasher: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve looked at some of the potential causes of the burnt plastic smell in your dishwasher, let’s dive into some solutions for getting rid of it. Follow these steps to banish the smell and get your dishwasher back to its fresh-smelling self:

1. First, take a look inside your dishwasher to see if you can spot any bits of plastic that might be causing the smell. If you see any, use a pair of tongs or a spoon to carefully remove them from the dishwasher. Be sure to unplug the dishwasher before you do this, to avoid the risk of electric shock.
2. Check the dishwasher’s spray arm for any pieces of plastic that might be stuck in the water flow. If you find any, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully remove it.
3. Once you’ve removed any visible bits of plastic, it’s time to give the dishwasher a thorough cleaning. Start by wiping down the inside of the dishwasher with a damp cloth to remove any food debris or grease that might be contributing to the smell.
4. Next, mix together a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, and use it to scrub the inside of the dishwasher. The vinegar will help to eliminate any lingering odors and leave the dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
5. After you’ve finished scrubbing, run the dishwasher through a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of baking soda. This will help to further remove any odors and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh.
6. If you’ve tried all of the above steps and the burnt plastic smell persists, it’s possible that there’s a problem with one of the dishwasher’s components. In this case, it’s best to call in a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

Tips for Preventing the Burnt Plastic Smell in the Future

Now that you know how to get burnt plastic smell out of your dishwasher, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Be careful what you put in your dishwasher. Avoid putting any plastic items in the dishwasher, as they can easily melt and cause the burnt plastic smell. This includes things like plastic utensils, Tupperware, and even some types of plastic containers.
2. Make sure to thoroughly rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. Any bits of food or grease left on the dishes can contribute to the burnt plastic smell.
3. Regularly clean and maintain your dishwasher. In addition to the steps outlined above, be sure to clean the dishwasher’s filters and check for any blockages or debris that could cause issues.
4. Consider using a dishwasher rinse aid. These products help to reduce water spots and improve the overall cleaning performance of your dishwasher. They can also help to prevent the burnt plastic smell by reducing the chances of food debris and grease getting stuck on the heating element.

By following these tips and regularly cleaning and maintaining your dishwasher, you can help to prevent the burnt plastic smell and keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.

Conclusion

If you’ve been struggling with a burnt plastic smell in your dishwasher, don’t despair – there are a few simple steps you can take to eliminate the smell and get your dishwasher back to its fresh-smelling self. Start by looking for any visible bits of plastic that might be causing the smell, and then give the dishwasher a thorough cleaning. If the smell persists, it’s possible that there’s a problem with one of the dishwasher’s components, in which case it’s best to call in a professional appliance repair technician. By following these steps and taking preventive measures, you can help to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean for years to come.