定期维护对洗碗机的正常运作至关重要。[1]家电服务技术人员和消费者组织Choice推荐了一套基础的清洁方案。过滤器和门封条应每周清洁一次，其中门封条可用软湿布擦拭。[1]若疏于清洁，过滤器堆积污物会上浮并阻挡喷臂，导致洗碗机无法正常工作。[1]此外，即使是一个柠檬籽卡在适当位置，也足以阻塞洗碗机并妨碍排水。[1]
深层清洁应每月进行一次。[1]Choice推荐的方法是将两杯白醋倒入碗中放入空洗碗机内运行，之后暂停半小时进行浸泡；若有异味残留，可加入一把小苏打重新运行。[1]使用者应在日常使用中养成习惯，刮除餐具上的食物残渣，并每年检查一次喷臂。[1]
Appliance service technicians and consumer organization Choice have outlined essential cleaning practices to maintain dishwasher performance [1]. The recommendations establish a tiered maintenance schedule that addresses both routine and deeper cleaning needs.
Weekly attention should focus on two key areas: the filter and door seals, which require cleaning with a soft damp cloth [1]. According to appliance expert Jack Roney, neglecting the filter can have serious consequences, as "if you don't, the filter will lift and it will block all your spray arms and then your dishwasher won't work properly" [1]. Even small debris can cause problems—Roney noted that "literally, a lemon pit lodged in the right position can block up your dishwasher and stop it from draining" [1].
Monthly deep cleaning should employ white vinegar and baking soda [1]. Choice recommends pouring two cups of vinegar into a bowl placed inside an empty dishwasher, then running the machine and pausing it for half an hour to allow soaking [1]. If odors persist, adding a handful of baking soda and running another cycle addresses the issue [1]. Beyond these regular tasks, the spray arms warrant annual inspection to ensure optimal function [1]. Pre-rinsing dishes to remove food residue before loading represents another preventive measure that supports the machine's operation [1].