Maintaining Your Dishwasher

Dishwashers are a huge time-saver—especially if they're used and maintained properly. European models like the ones in our apartments are efficient and built to last, but just like any appliance, they need a little care.

In this guide, we’ll show you the exact steps to keep your dishwasher clean, odor-free, and working as it should—without calling for service.

Why Dishwasher Maintenance Matters

Neglecting dishwasher care can cause:

• Cloudy or dirty dishes

• Bad smells or standing water

• Limescale buildup and mineral deposits (especially in Vienna and Budapest)

• Clogged filters or spray arms

• Damage to the appliance or service issues

The good news? All of this can be prevented with a few simple habits.

🔄 Step-by-Step: How to Maintain Your Dishwasher

✅ 1. Scrape, Don’t Rinse

• No need to pre-rinse, but do scrape off leftover food before loading.

• This reduces gunk in the filter and helps water flow properly.

✅ 2. Use the Right Detergent

• Always use dishwasher-approved tabs or powder—never regular dish soap.

• Using improper detergent can cause overflow and soap buildup.

✅ 3. Regularly Refill Salt and Rinse Aid (Klarspüler)

• These two are crucial for proper cleaning and machine protection in areas with hard water (like Vienna and Budapest):

  • Dishwasher Salt:

    • Prevents limescale buildup

    • Goes in the round compartment inside the dishwasher (usually near the bottom filter)

    • Top up about monthly as a routine

  • Rinse Aid / Klarspüler:

    • Helps prevent streaks and spots on glasses

    • Speeds up drying

    • Usually located next to the detergent compartment on the inside of the door

    • Refill after every 4-5 loads as the compartments rarely hold very much

Tip: Keep salt and rinse aid stocked under your kitchen sink so you remember to refill them easily.

✅ 4. Clean the Filter – Monthly

• Pull out the bottom rack and twist out the mesh filter.

• Rinse under warm water and scrub away all debris.

• Wipe the area around the filter housing before replacing it.

✅ 5. Wipe the Door Seals

• Clean around the rubber gasket with a damp cloth to remove grime or food particles.

• Pay attention to corners where buildup often collects.

✅ 6. Run a Cleaning Cycle – Monthly

• Run the machine empty with a cup of white vinegar on a hot cycle or the official cleaning cycle.

• This flushes out grease, soap scum, and mineral buildup from internal parts.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting salt and rinse aid: These aren’t optional in hard water regions!

• Overloading the racks: Blocks spray arms and leaves dishes dirty

• Using the wrong soap: Sudsy mess + potential damage

• Skipping filter cleaning: The #1 cause of odors and poor drainage

💬 Final Thoughts

By keeping the filter clean, using the right detergent, and regularly topping up salt and Klarspüler, you’ll keep your dishwasher running smoothly and your dishes sparkling clean.

At Platinum Properties, all of our apartments are equipped with high-quality dishwashers. These quick care steps ensure everything works as it should—with no hassle and no mess.

👉 Looking for a stylish, modern, and well-equipped home in Vienna or Budapest? Review our listings here.