How to Clean a Dishwasher Like a Pro in Less Than 15 Minutes

by Amy Sardone on Nov 21 2025
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    Most people assume the dishwasher cleans itself. But one of its most important parts — the filter — quietly collects grease, food particles, soap residue, and bacteria over time.

    When a dishwasher filter isn’t cleaned at least once a month, it can cause unpleasant odors, poor wash results, drainage issues, and even shorten the life of the machine.

    For cleaning business owners, this is more than just maintenance — it’s an opportunity. A dishwasher deep clean is a simple, high-value add-on service that takes less than 15 minutes and delivers noticeable results to your clients.

    Why Dishwasher Filter Cleaning Matters

    The filter’s job is to trap food particles and debris so they don’t clog the pump and plumbing. But when it becomes overloaded, it turns into the opposite — a breeding ground for bacteria, grease, and bad smells.

    Here’s what happens when the filter is neglected:

    • ❌ Bad odors coming from the dishwasher

    • ❌ Dishes that still look cloudy or dirty after a cycle

    • ❌ Grease and biofilm buildup inside the machine

    • ❌ Drainage problems and slow water flow

    • ❌ Overworked motor and reduced appliance lifespan

    • ❌ Potential repair or replacement costs

    Cleaning this small component regularly protects the appliance — and protects your reputation as a cleaning professional.

    Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean a Dishwasher Filter (The Speed Cleaning Way)

    1. Make sure the dishwasher is mostly empty
    Remove dishes and pull out the bottom rack to access the filter area.

    2. Locate and remove the filter
    Most filters are located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Gently twist and lift to remove it.

    3. Rinse the filter in the sink
    Use warm water to loosen grease, food particles, and loose debris.

    4. Spray with Red Juice
    Apply Red Juice, a powerful, non-toxic, alkaline all-purpose cleaner that breaks down grease and organic buildup quickly and effectively.

    5. Scrub thoroughly
    Use a sponge or microfiber cloth for most of the surface area.
    For tight spots and stubborn buildup, use a detail brush to reach small crevices.

    A High-Value Add-On for Cleaning Business Owners

    This is one of the most overlooked areas in a kitchen — and that’s what makes it such a profitable add-on.

    Most clients don’t even know their dishwasher has a filter, let alone that it needs monthly cleaning. Including it in your service allows you to:

     Increase your average service ticket
     Provide a visible, noticeable result
     Prevent odors and complaints
     Educate clients on appliance care
     Stand out from competing cleaning companies
     Position yourself as a detail-oriented professional

    And the best part? It requires minimal extra time and tools — just smart technique.

    6. Rinse, dry, and replace the filter
    Rinse away all remaining debris and product. Dry the filter and reinstall it properly.

    Finish with a Quick Internal Cleaning Cycle

    After the filter is cleaned and replaced:

    1. Place 1 cup of white vinegar in a small container on the top rack

    2. Run a normal (empty) cycle

    The vinegar (mild acid) helps:

    • Break down soap residue

    • Dissolve mineral deposits from hard water

    • Neutralize odors

    • Clean internal surfaces and hoses

    This final step leaves the dishwasher smelling fresh and running more efficiently.

    Ready to Turn This Into a Premium Add-On Service?

    If you want fast, professional results when cleaning dishwasher filters — and every greasy surface in a home — Red Juice is your go-to solution.

    This high-performance, non-toxic cleaner is made for speed and efficiency, which is exactly what cleaning businesses need.

    ✔ Breaks down grease fast
    ✔ Cuts through organic buildup
    ✔ Safe, non-toxic formula
    ✔ Ideal for filters, kitchens & heavy-use areas
    ✔ Trusted by professional cleaning teams

    Stop wasting time on stubborn grease. Let Red Juice do the heavy lifting.

    Add Red Juice to your cleaning kit today and start turning small details into high-value services for your business.

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