KitchenAid Organic Buildup and Poor Drainage

Dishwasher has a bad odor even after running cycles; smells like mildew or rotten food.

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Possible Causes

Food debris in sump and filters, stagnant water in drain hose low spots, infrequent use, biofilm on interior surfaces

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety First: No electrical work required.

Deep clean:

  • Remove and thoroughly clean filters, sump area, and spray arms.
  • Wipe door gasket and folds with a mild bleach solution (follow label directions) and rinse.

Run cleaning cycle:

  • Use a dishwasher cleaner or run a hot cycle with a cleaner designed to remove grease and odor.

Usage tips:

  • Scrape large food particles before loading.
  • Leave the door slightly ajar between cycles to allow drying and prevent mildew.
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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5
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