How To Remove Wet Dog Smell From The Dishwasher[Proven Methods]

One of the most common pet smells is that of a wet dog. Wet dogs often fight with other animals or get lost in the rain, and their fur gets soaked up with water and bacteria.

As a result, their odor becomes intense and sickening. Wet dog smell is a potent, unpleasant odor caused when your dog’s urine or feces gets wet and starts to ferment. This process creates methane and other organic compounds, making a foul-smelling mixture.

Cleaning your dishwasher multiple times weekly to eliminate that wet dog smell is repetitive work. This smell can be incredibly off-putting and is often the cause of bad moods and irritation. But don’t worry – there are ways to remove the wet dog smell from The dishwasher quickly and easily.

We’ll discuss six proven methods on how to remove wet dog smell from the dishwasher. Whether using an industrial dishwasher or a regular one, we’ve got you covered. So stay calm and smell like freshness – not a wet dog.

Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Like Wet Dog?

If your dishwasher smells like a wet dog, there could be a few potential causes. One possible explanation is that food debris or residue is stuck in the dishwasher’s filter or drain. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in an unpleasant odor. Another possibility is that there is mold or mildew growing inside the dishwasher.

This can occur if the dishwasher isn’t properly ventilated or if excess moisture is present. Finally, it’s also possible that the smell comes from your dishes themselves, especially if they were not properly cleaned before being placed in the dishwasher.

To address this issue, make sure to regularly clean and maintain your dishwasher, including cleaning the filter and drain, using vinegar or baking soda to eliminate odors, and ensuring that your dishes are thoroughly cleaned before loading them into the dishwasher.

What Causes Your Dishwasher To Have An Odor Like A Wet Dog?

Dealing with a wet dog smell in your dishwasher can be quite unpleasant. If you’ve ever experienced the unpleasant smell of wet dogs from your dishwasher, you’re not alone. This can happen when food and debris get trapped in the filter or other parts of the dishwasher, leading to a buildup of bacteria and causing an odor. Here are some common causes of this unpleasant odor:

• Food Particles: If food particles are left behind in the dishwasher, they can start to decompose and create an unpleasant smell.
• Standing Water: If standing water is in the bottom of the dishwasher, it can become stagnant and develop a foul odor.
• Mold and Mildew: Moisture and heat provide the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew in your dishwasher, leading to a musty smell.
• Clogged Filter or Drain: A clogged filter or drain can prevent proper drainage, resulting in stagnant water and odors.
• Dirty Dishes: Leaving dirty dishes in the dishwasher clean for too long can contribute to unpleasant odors as bacteria multiply on the food residue.

By addressing these potential causes and implementing regular cleaning and maintenance practices, you can eliminate the wet dog smell from your dishwasher and enjoy fresh, clean dishes once again.

How to Remove Wet Dog Smell From The Dishwasher: 6 Proven Methods

Have you ever experienced the unpleasant odor of a wet dog coming from your dishwasher? It’s not uncommon to notice this smell, but it can be quite frustrating. Dishwashers can be a nightmare when getting rid of a wet dog smell. Cleaning dishes can be tough after your dog has had too much fun in the park.

There are several ways to remove the wet dog smell from dishes in the dishwasher. Here are six proven methods on how to remove wet dog smell from the dishwasher fast:

1.Clean The Filter

To clean the filter, remove it from the dishwasher according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Rinse it under warm water to remove any visible residue. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away stubborn dirt or grime. Once clean, reinstall the filter in the dishwasher and run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar to eliminate any remaining odors. Regularly cleaning the filter can help prevent future smells and ensure that your dishwasher continues to operate effectively.

2.Clean The Drain Filter

If you notice an excess wet dog smell from your dishwasher, it might be time to clean the drain filter. This will help eliminate food particles and debris clogging up the Filter and causing water odor. First, remove any food particles or debris with a plunger to clean the Filter.

Next, pour a pot of hot water down the dishwasher drain and use the plunger to clear everything out. Once everything has settled, run your dishwasher again to ensure all areas are properly cleaned.

3.Clean The Door Seal

You can take a few easy steps to clean the dishwasher door seal and reduce smell buildup. First, remove all food and debris from the dishwasher before starting – this will help eliminate smells. Second, run the dishwasher with a full load of dishes to wash away any grease or water residue.

Third, use a degreaser like Dawn or vinegar on a cloth to clean the door seal – make sure it’s completely dry before replacing it. Fourth, replace the door seal every six months if it starts to deteriorate – this will help stop bad odors from entering your machine.

4.Clean The Spray Arm

If a wet dog smell comes from the dishwasher’s spray arm, it may be time to clean it. The spray arm helps water shoot out of the dishwasher and onto dishes. If it’s clogged with gunk, this process won’t work, and bad smells will accumulate. First, remove any food particles or debris with a plunger to clean the spray arm. Next, pour a pot of hot water down the dishwasher drain and use the plunger to clear everything out.

Finally, use a cleaning brush aggressively to scrub all deposits off the spray arm – make sure to remove all water, soap residue, and debris. Once the arm is clean, replace it and test the dishwasher’s cleaning abilities again – if there are still odor issues, take additional steps to clear the Filter or door seal.

5.Run A Cleaning Cycle

Sometimes cleaning the dishwasher isn’t enough – sometimes you’ll need to run a cleaning cycle. A cleaning cycle uses high water pressure and hot water to blast away built-up dirt, food particles, and grease – this will clean everything inside the machine and eliminate bad smells. To do a cleaning cycle, disconnect the dishwasher from the electrical grid and fill it with at least 3 cups of water.

Turn on the dishwasher (ensure it sets on Wash/rinse) and allow it to run through its regular cycles. When it finishes, turn off the machine and empty all the water. Once the water goes, turn on the dishwasher and run a cleaning cycle. This will remove the built-up dirt, food particles, and grease.

6.Contaminated Water

If cleaning the dishwasher and running a cleaning cycle doesn’t solve the smell issue, it may be time to take additional steps. Contaminated water is one of the most common causes of bad odor in dishwashers – if there’s food or dirt in the water supply, it will end up on dishes and create bad smells.

Run a hot wash with detergent on a normal cycle to test for contaminated water. Contamination is present if a bad odor occurs, and you’ll need to take additional steps to cleanse the machine. If washing with detergent still doesn’t help, it may be time to call a professional.

Even With Regular Dishwasher Care, It Still Smells Now What?

If you’ve been diligently cleaning your dishwasher and following all the recommended maintenance tips, but it still has an unpleasant smell, don’t despair. There are a few additional steps you can take to tackle this issue. First, check for any food debris or residue that may be trapped in the filter or drain.

Cleaning these areas thoroughly can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. You can also try running a cycle with a cup of vinegar or baking soda to neutralize any lingering smells.

If these steps don’t solve the problem, it may be worth considering a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed to remove odors. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing odors from developing in the first place, so continue to clean your dishwasher regularly to keep it smelling fresh and functioning properly.

How To Prevent Your Dishwasher From Smelling Like A Wet Dog

Preventing your dishwasher from smelling like a wet dog can be a challenge, especially if you have furry friends in the house. By following these tips, you can help keep your dishwasher cycle smelling fresh and clean, even with pets in the house. Here are some tips to help keep that unpleasant odor at bay:

• Clean the Filter Regularly: The dishwasher filter can become clogged with food particles and pet hair, contributing to the smell. Be sure to clean the filter regularly to prevent buildup.
• Rinse Dishes Before Loading: Removing excess food and debris from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher can help prevent odors from forming.
• Run a Vinegar Cycle: Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Run a hot water supply hose cycle to help remove any lingering odors.
• Use an Odor-Neutralizing Agent: Many commercial dishwasher cleaner products are specifically designed to eliminate odors from dishwashers. Look for one that is pet-friendly and safe for use in your machine.

Avoiding Overloading The Dishwasher And Leaving Dishes Sitting For Too Long

Overloading the dishwasher can cause dishes to sit in water for too long, resulting in an unpleasant odor. The longer dishes sit in water, the more moisture they will contain. This moisture will attract bacteria, which will create an unpleasant smell. 

Dishwashers are designed to clean dishes quickly and efficiently. However, if you follow the instructions that come with your machine, you will avoid overloading it and causing dishes to sit in water for too long.

Before loading a dish, fill the dishwasher with water to the top of the designated rack. Do not overload the machine; it can only hold a certain amount of weight. Place dishes on the rack, filling them to the top of the dishwasher. Close the dishwasher door and start the cycle.

Seeking Professional Help If The Odor Persists Despite Your Efforts

If you’ve tried all the usual methods for preventing your dishwasher from smelling like a wet dog, such as cleaning the filter and running a hot water nozzles cycle with White vinegar Dish soap, and you still can’t seem to get rid of the odor, it may be time to seek professional help. A persistent odor could indicate a more serious problem, such as a clogged drain or a malfunctioning motor.

A professional appliance repair technician can diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring that your dishwasher runs smoothly and smells fresh. Don’t suffer through that unpleasant wet dog smell any longer – call in the professionals and enjoy clean dishes without any unpleasant odors.

Other Tips For Removing Wet Dog Smell From The Kitchen

In addition to removing the wet dog smell from the dishwasher, you can try several other tips to eliminate the odor from your kitchen. Following these tips ensures your kitchen stays fresh and odor-free, even with a wet dog. Here are a few suggestions:

• Clean your kitchen thoroughly. Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinets, and floors. Use a cleaning solution that is safe for use around pets.
• Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. This can help to remove any lingering odors in the kitchen.
• Use natural deodorizers. Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer that can help absorb and neutralize odors. Sprinkle baking soda on your carpets, upholstery, or any other areas where dog smells may be present.
• Keep your dog clean and groomed. Regularly bathing and grooming your dog can help reduce the odor they bring into the house.
• Consider using air purifiers or odor-neutralizing sprays designed for pets’ unwanted odors. These products can help to freshen up the air in your kitchen and eliminate unpleasant smells.

Regular Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Dishwasher Smelling Fresh

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dishwasher smelling fresh and free from that pesky wet dog smell. Following these regular maintenance tips, you can keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and free from that wet dog smell. Here are some tips to help you keep your dishwasher odor-free:

• Clean the Filter: The dishwasher filter can easily become clogged with food particles and debris, leading to unpleasant odors. Regularly remove and clean the removable filter assembly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Scrub the Interior: Use a soft clean cloth or wet sponge to scrub the interior of your dishwasher, paying special attention to any areas where residue may have built up. You can use a mixture of vinegar and water or a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed to remove odors.
• Run a Vinegar Cycle: Fill a cup with white vinegar and place it in the top dish rack of your empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle to help eliminate any lingering smells.
• Wipe down the seals and gaskets: Over time, seals and gasket seals can accumulate dirt and grime, leading to odors. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down these areas regularly.
• Empty and Clean the Drain: Food particles can get trapped in the dishwasher drain, causing unpleasant smells. Remove debris from the drain hose area and run hot and cold water through it to ensure it is clear.

Conclusion

Dishwashers are useful appliances that every household should have. They help to quickly and easily clean your dishes, making them easier to store and eat. Wet dog smell is a bad smell that can come from any animal. But it’s most commonly associated with dogs. The moist environment in a dog’s coat and its digestive system combine to create a powerful odor called a wet dog smell.

This odor is caused by the mix of bacteria, yeasts, and enzymes produced during digestion. Here, we provide the solutions to remove the wet dog smell from your dishwashers. We hope you find our tips on how to remove wet dog smell from the dishwasher very useful. From cleaning the dishwasher interior to using one of the many proven methods, you will be able to get rid of that wet dog smell in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions