Placing sliced lemons in the top rack of a dishwasher and running a standard cycle naturally eliminates musty odors, according to cleaning expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila on TikTok. In a video posted in May, Mila shared that the citric acid in lemons cuts through grease and limescale, deodorizes the machine, and leaves a fresh scent.
Why Dishwashers Develop Musty Smells
Without regular cleaning, dishwashers can become breeding grounds for bacteria due to accumulated food particles, grease, soap scum, and mold. A blocked filter or drain, or residue trapped in seals, can also cause foul odors. Mila recommends placing sliced lemons in the upper rack and running a standard cycle with detergent to refresh the appliance.
Expert Advice on Using Lemons
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, she warned that lemon seeds must be removed beforehand to prevent blocking the dishwasher's filter. The lemon will not eliminate leftover food debris, so pre-rinsing dishes is still advisable.
Additional Tips from Mila
In the same video, Mila offered other home hacks: drying fitted sheets under a clothes airer to save space, using cinnamon water to repel ants, placing cinnamon sticks in a vacuum for fragrance, and cleaning sifters with a spoon. These quick tips aim to make cleaning easier and more efficient.
