Just because your plates look spotless doesn’t mean they’re truly clean. A surprising number of dishwashers in American homes aren’t doing the sanitizing job we expect  and that could be a problem for your health.

Did you know? According to recent surveys, over 60% of U.S. households report issues with dishwasher performance – and many of those machines are running cooler than they should. That means instead of killing bacteria, they might just be spreading it around.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the hidden dangers inside your dishwasher, how to spot the warning signs, and – most importantly – how to fix the problem quickly and easily. Whether you’re dealing with musty smells, cloudy glasses, or just want peace of mind that your dishes are actually clean, this guide has you covered. Let’s make sure your dishwasher isn’t secretly working against you.

How Dishwashers Should Sanitize Your Dishes

Your dishwasher is supposed to do more than just rinse off visible food – it should sanitize your dishes, meaning it kills harmful bacteria that can make you sick. But for that to happen, a few key things need to work just right.

The Right Temperature Matters

For proper sanitizing, your dishwasher needs to reach at least 150°F (65°C) during the wash cycle. That’s the temperature required to kill off most germs and bacteria. If the water isn’t hot enough, your dishes may come out looking clean – but they’re not truly safe to use.

It’s All About Water Pressure and Detergent

Strong spray jets help blast off food particles, while quality detergent breaks down grease and bacteria. If your spray arms are clogged or water pressure is too low, even the best detergent won’t be enough. This is a common reason why people notice their dishwasher not cleaning properly – the mechanics behind the scenes just aren’t doing their job.

Don’t Skip the Drying Cycle

Believe it or not, the drying cycle helps with sanitation too. A warm, dry environment makes it harder for bacteria and mold to grow. Leaving the door closed after a cycle or skipping the drying phase can create the perfect damp conditions for germs to thrive.

When your dishwasher is working as it should, it’s a powerhouse of hygiene. But when even one part isn’t functioning right? That’s when problems begin.

Signs Your Dishwasher Might Be a Breeding Ground for Bacteria

Your dishwasher is meant to clean – but under the wrong conditions, it can actually become one of the dirtiest places in your kitchen. Thankfully, there are a few clear warning signs that something isn’t right. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to give your machine a closer look.

• Unpleasant Odors

A clean dishwasher shouldn’t smell like anything. If you notice a strong musty or sour odor, that could be a sign of mold or mildew growing inside – often caused by trapped moisture, food buildup, or poor airflow. This is one of the most common signs of poor dishwasher hygiene.

• Food Debris and Gunk

Leftover food particles collecting in the filter, spray arms, or bottom of the tub are more than just gross – they’re a breeding ground for bacteria. If your dishwasher isn’t rinsing food away properly, it could be spreading those germs right back onto your dishes.

• Cloudy or Greasy Residue

If your glasses come out looking foggy or your plates feel greasy, even after a full cycle, your dishwasher may not be cleaning effectively. This can happen when the jets are clogged or when old food and soap scum start to build up inside.

• Slime or Spots Inside the Machine

Visible slime, orange or pink spots, or patches of mold inside your dishwasher are a clear red flag. These are all signs of excess moisture and bacterial growth – especially around the door seal, filter, and spray arms.

Paying attention to these warning signs can help you catch problems early and keep your dishwasher from turning into a hidden hygiene hazard.

Common Causes: Why Your Dishwasher Isn’t Sanitizing Properly

If your dishwasher isn’t doing its job, it’s not always obvious why. But in most cases, the issue comes down to a few common (and fixable) problems. Here’s what could be going wrong behind that closed door.

• The Water’s Not Hot Enough

For a dishwasher to sanitize properly, it needs to reach high temperatures. If the heating element isn’t working, the water may never get hot enough to kill bacteria. This is one of the most common reasons people notice their dishwasher not hot enough – and it’s often overlooked.

• Spray Arms or Jets Are Clogged

Over time, tiny bits of food and mineral deposits can clog the spray arms. When that happens, the water doesn’t reach all your dishes evenly. The result? Items come out dirty, or worse, still contaminated. If you’re seeing spots or leftover food, it’s worth checking for a clogged dishwasher spray arm.

• The Filter Needs a Cleaning

The dishwasher filter traps food particles so they don’t get re-deposited onto your dishes. But if it’s full or blocked, it can affect both cleaning power and hygiene. Regular dishwasher filter cleaning is key – it takes just a few minutes but makes a big difference.

• Hard Water Build-Up

If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can build up inside your dishwasher, especially around the heating element and spray arms. That buildup can reduce efficiency and interfere with proper sanitizing. Over time, hard water dishwasher problems can even damage the machine itself.

• Wrong Detergent or Cycle

Using a low-quality detergent – or the wrong type altogether – can make a good dishwasher perform poorly. The same goes for choosing quick or eco cycles that don’t get hot enough. Always check that you’re using the right combination of detergent and wash cycle for your needs.

Health Risks of a Dirty Dishwasher

When we think of kitchen germs, we usually picture cutting boards or sponges – but your dishwasher could be quietly spreading harmful bacteria, too. If it’s not sanitizing properly, it’s not just a cleaning issue – it’s a potential health risk.

Common Bacteria Found in Dishwashers

Studies have found that dishwashers can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, especially if the interior stays damp or has food residue. And let’s not forget mold – it thrives in warm, humid environments, exactly like those found inside a poorly maintained machine.

Cross-Contamination Is Real

When dirty water or bacteria get recirculated during a cycle, it can transfer germs from one item to another. That means one poorly rinsed cutting board or fork could end up contaminating everything else in the load. This kind of cross-contamination often goes unnoticed but can cause stomach bugs or worse.

Who’s Most at Risk

While anyone can get sick from contaminated dishes, the risks are higher for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. For them, even mild exposure to bacteria from a dirty dishwasher can lead to more serious health issues.

So if you’ve ever wondered, “Is my dishwasher making me sick?”, the answer is – possibly, yes. But the good news is, once you know what to look for, it’s easy to take control and turn things around.

How to Check If Your Dishwasher Is Actually Sanitizing

Not sure if your dishwasher is really doing its job? Here are a few simple checks you can do at home – no tools or tech expertise required. These small steps can make a big difference in your dishwasher’s performance and your family’s health.

• Check the Water Temperature

The easiest way to know if your dishwasher is sanitizing is to test the water temperature. Run the hot water at your kitchen sink first, then start the dishwasher. Partway through the cycle, carefully open the door (just a crack) and use a kitchen thermometer to check the water.

You’re looking for at least 150°F (65°C). If it’s lower, your dishwasher may not be hot enough to kill bacteria.

Tip: If you’re unsure how to test dishwasher temperature safely, look up a step-by-step video or consult your dishwasher’s manual.

• Clean It from the Inside Out

Run an empty hot cycle with white vinegar to break down grease and deodorize. You can also sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short cycle to help with buildup and odors. This easy routine not only freshens your machine – it also improves hygiene. Cleaning your dishwasher with vinegar once a month is a great habit.

• Inspect the Key Components

Take a look at your spray arms, filter, and rubber seals. Are there food particles, mold, or hard water residue? If yes, it’s time to clean them. Clogged or dirty parts are a common reason dishwashers lose their ability to sanitize effectively.

• Use a Dishwasher Cleaner Monthly

For deeper cleaning, consider using a store-bought dishwasher cleaner once a month. It helps remove buildup you can’t reach, especially in the hoses and heating element. Taking 10 minutes to check and maintain your dishwasher can save you from hours of frustration (and potential illness) down the line.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix and Maintain a Cleaner Dishwasher

The good news? Most dishwasher issues can be fixed without calling a repair tech. With a few simple steps, you can restore your machine’s cleaning power and make sure it’s actually sanitizing your dishes. Here’s your go-to dishwasher cleaning guide.

• Step 1: Clean the Filter

Start by removing and rinsing the filter – usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher. It traps food debris, and when it’s clogged, water can’t drain or circulate properly. Rinse it under hot water and gently scrub with an old toothbrush if needed. This one step alone can make a huge difference.

• Step 2: Unclog the Spray Arms

Take out the spray arms (top and bottom, if your model allows it) and check for food bits or mineral deposits in the holes. Use a toothpick, skewer, or small brush to clear any blockages. If the spray arms can’t spin freely or spray water effectively, your dishes won’t get properly cleaned – even if everything else is working.

• Step 3: Remove Hard Water Build-Up

If you notice white spots, chalky residue, or cloudy glassware, hard water may be the culprit.

To descale your dishwasher:

• • Run an empty cycle with white vinegar or a commercial descaler
    
    
  • Wipe down the interior, especially around the heating element and door seals
    This will help restore efficiency and improve sanitation.
    
    

• Step 4: Run a Sanitizing Cycle

Most modern dishwashers have a high-temperature or sanitizing cycle. Use it regularly – especially after heavy loads, illness in the household, or if the machine hasn’t been cleaned in a while.

This ensures bacteria and mold don’t have a chance to take hold.

• Step 5: Check the Heating Element

If your water isn’t getting hot enough (even after descaling), the heating element might be failing. Look for visible signs like discoloration or cracking.

While replacing it may require a technician, just knowing this could be the issue helps you make an informed decision.

Consistent, simple DIY dishwasher maintenance keeps your appliance running better, longer — and ensures your dishes come out safe, not just shiny.

When to Call a Professional

Some dishwasher issues are easy to handle on your own – but not everything should turn into a DIY project. Knowing when to bring in a professional can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Final Tips for Cleaner, Safer Dishes

Keeping your dishwasher running at its best doesn’t stop at maintenance – the way you use it also makes a big difference in how clean and sanitized your dishes really get. Here are a few final tips to ensure your dishwasher is a true ally in your fight against bacteria.  If you need professional help or have any questions, feel free to contact us. 

By following these tips and keeping up with regular maintenance, your dishwasher can become your best friend in the kitchen – working not just to clean, but to prevent bacteria in the dishwasher and keep your home healthy.