How to Descale a Dishwasher: Step-by-Step Australian Guide

Hard water is common across much of Australia, particularly in Sydney, Canberra and regional NSW. Over time, mineral deposits (limescale) build up inside your dishwasher, reducing its efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Regular descaling keeps your dishwasher running like new.

How Often Should You Descale?

In hard water areas like greater Sydney and the Central Coast, descale every 1–3 months. In softer water areas, every 3–6 months is usually sufficient. Signs you need to descale include:

• White chalky deposits on interior walls or the door
• Cloudy glasses after washing
• Reduced cleaning performance
• Spray arms becoming blocked

What You'll Need

• White vinegar (1–2 cups) OR a commercial dishwasher descaler/cleaner
• Bicarbonate of soda (optional)
• Soft cloth or sponge

Step-by-Step: How to Descale with Vinegar

1. Empty the dishwasher completely — remove all dishes, cutlery and racks.
2. Check and clean the filter — remove the filter from the bottom and rinse under warm water. Use a soft brush if needed. Reinstall when clean.
3. Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack — use a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup filled with 1–2 cups of white vinegar. Do NOT pour it into the detergent dispenser.
4. Run a hot cycle — select the hottest available cycle (usually 65–70°C) and run the machine empty with the vinegar.
5. Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda and run a short cycle — after the vinegar cycle finishes, sprinkle 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda on the floor of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle. This deodorises and helps loosen any remaining residue.
6. Wipe down the door seals — use a damp cloth with a little vinegar to wipe around the door gasket and edges where deposits can accumulate.

Using a Commercial Descaler

Products like Finish Dishwasher Cleaner or Bosch/Miele-branded cleaning tablets are very effective. Follow the product instructions — most simply go in the main wash compartment with an empty machine on a hot cycle.

Preventing Scale Build-Up

• Always use rinse aid — it reduces mineral deposits on glasses and interior surfaces
• Use quality dishwasher salt in the salt reservoir if your machine has one (helps soften water)
• Use pods or tablets with built-in rinse aid and salt

Need a New Dishwasher?

If descaling isn't solving your problems, it may be time to upgrade. Oceania Appliances stocks certified refurbished dishwashers from leading brands, all with a 3-month warranty and free delivery across NSW.

Call 02 9627 7355 or visit oceaniaappliances.com.au.