The Dollar Tree Cleaning Hack To Make Your Dishwasher Run Like New

Dishwashers are meant to make life easier, taking the hassle out of scrubbing, rinsing, and drying every fork and glass by hand. But if you run a full load — using electricity and about six gallons of water per cycle — only to realize your dishwasher isn't cleaning very well, it's incredibly frustrating. You end up running it again, wasting time and resources, and might still be stuck with dirty dishes.

Before assuming something's broken and your dishwasher needs replacing, it's worth considering that built-up grime might be affecting how well your dishwasher works. Just like a sink or garbage disposal, dishwashers need a good cleaning every now and then. Once a month is ideal if you use it daily, and every six months is usually enough if you only run it occasionally. One surprisingly easy and affordable way to clean your dishwasher and get it running like new again is with a Dollar Tree hack.

All you need is a toothpick (a Dollar Tree 500-Pack of Toothpicks goes for $1.25). This quick fix focuses on the dishwasher spray arms, the parts that spin and spray water to loosen and remove food during a cycle. Just like the filter and drain hose, these can get clogged with bits of food that didn't wash away. And over time, that buildup can start to block the water flow, preventing your dishes from getting cleaned.

Start by removing the upper and lower spray arms inside your dishwasher. Depending on your dishwasher model, you may need to unscrew the top spray arm to release it. Next, grab your toothpick from Dollar Tree and gently poke into the holes on both the top and bottom spray arms. This will help dislodge any large bits of food and loosen grime that might be blocking water from spraying properly throughout the appliance.

To go a step further, soak the spray arms in a vinegar solution made of equal parts warm water and distilled white vinegar. Let them sit for about 15 to 20 minutes to help break down any buildup hiding inside those tiny holes. Keep in mind that some appliance materials might be sensitive to certain cleaning solutions, so check your instruction manual before soaking the spray arms.

Once they're done soaking, rinse them with soap and water, then dry with a paper towel or hand towel. Finally, reinstall the spray arms, making sure they're properly secured and able to spin freely. If they're not reattached correctly, it can affect how well your dishwasher performs. You should notice a difference in how your dishwasher functions after cleaning it, but if food debris is still clinging to your plates or your cups are coming out streaky, it could be a sign that other parts, like the gasket or filter, need a deep clean too. Wiping down the interior walls and door and using a descaler can also help improve your dishwasher's overall performance, as can making sure you're using the best cycle for the cleanest dishes.