What That Burning Plastic Smell In Your Dishwasher Is Trying To Tell You (& When To Call A Pro)

There are some smells in your kitchen you probably don't want to ignore. From rancid fridge odors to a smelly kitchen sink, there are a few scents to watch for, as they are likely signs that something is wrong or needs a closer look. While some odors can be harmless and easy to fix, such as a minor spill in your fridge or a full bag of garbage, others may indicate that something in your kitchen is malfunctioning. For example, if you have started to notice a burning plastic smell wafting from your dishwasher, you may want to investigate further to see what could be the cause. Not only could this be a sign of your appliance losing its ability to do its job, but it could also be a warning of a safety hazard. Causes of the burnt plastic odor range from electrical issues to using the dishwasher to clean plasticware that isn't dishwasher safe.

Your standard dishwasher has multiple moving parts, including the control panel, spray arms, pump and motor, and filter. Once you've determined that the burning scent is coming from the dishwasher and not another appliance in your kitchen, you can start investigating each section to identify the source. While some issues can be solved DIY-style, others may require professional help. If you've ruled out other possibilities and determined the odor stems from the electrical wiring, and the wires appear damaged or frayed, you should contact a professional instead of attempting to fix it yourself. 

From electrical issues to loading non-dishwasher-safe items, there are a few potential reasons your dishwasher could emit a burning plastic odor. Before you start to inspect the appliance, make sure to unplug it from its power source. One of the most common reasons for a plastic-y odor is that your dishwasher is overheating. During the washing cycle, a dishwasher heats water to sanitize the items inside, and a temperature that's too high can lead to this smell. The smell could also be caused by a malfunctioning pump. If you suspect an overheating issue, locate and inspect the dishwasher's heating element, which is usually located under the lower rack. Always ensure the appliance is completely unplugged and turned off before doing so.

You may also have placed plastic items into your dishwasher that aren't dishwasher-safe. Some takeout containers, water bottles, plastic cutlery, and other plastic storage containers should be hand-washed, as exposure to the higher temperatures can cause them to burn or melt. You could also be dealing with blocked ventilation, which is when debris or food buildup traps heat from escaping the appliance. Cleaning the vent system is an easy way to rule out what could be causing the smell. If you've thoroughly inspected the basic functions and completed some deep cleaning but still notice a burning smell, you will need to call a professional to determine the cause.