Dishwashers can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly, but a simple hack using a natural item can eliminate unpleasant odors for good. Cleaning expert and TikTok creator Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila, recommends placing a sliced lemon in the top rack of the dishwasher and running a standard cycle with dishes and detergent.
Why dishwashers develop musty smells
According to cleaning experts, dishwashers can become musty when not properly cleaned. Accumulated food debris, grease, soap scum, bacteria, and mould contribute to unpleasant odours. A blocked filter or drain, or leftover debris in the dishwasher seals, can also cause smells. Chantel Mila's solution uses lemons to absorb and neutralise these odours naturally.
How the lemon hack works
The citric acid in lemons naturally breaks down grease, eliminates limescale, deodorises the machine, and leaves a fresh fragrance. Nicki Rodriguez of Essex House Dolly told Ideal Home: "Adding lemon will help to cut grease and limescale naturally. It'll also leave the dishwasher smelling fresh." However, Mila warns that seeds must be removed before placing the lemon in the dishwasher, as they could block the filter.
This natural remedy is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to chemical cleaners. Regular use can help maintain dishwasher performance and prevent odour buildup. For best results, clean the dishwasher filter and seals periodically alongside this hack.
