Share this expert tip!
If your dishes come out sparkling clean, it’s natural to assume your dishwasher is clean too. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. When your Samsung dishwasher smells bad, it usually means something inside needs attention. Odors can develop quietly over time, and by the time you notice them, buildup may already be affecting your dishwasher’s performance.
A smelly dishwasher can also be a sign that it’s working harder than it should. Regular care keeps your Samsung dishwasher running efficiently, helps prevent future issues, and ensures your dishes always come out fresh and spotless.
Dishwashers handle all kinds of messes, greasy pans, food-covered plates, and sticky utensils. Over time, small bits of debris, detergent residue, and moisture can build up in hidden areas like the filter, drain, and spray arms. This creates a perfect environment for bacteria and mildew to grow, leading to that unpleasant smell when you open the door. If your Samsung dishwasher smells bad, it’s time for a deep clean. Here’s how to tackle the odor, remove buildup, and keep it from coming back.
When a Samsung dishwasher smells bad, it’s usually because of trapped food, standing water, or mold. Since dishwashers are warm and damp, it doesn’t take much for bacteria to grow. Here are the most common reasons behind the odor:
Dirty filter: The filter catches food bits to stop them from clogging the drain. When it’s full, those particles start to rot.
Blocked spray arms: Small food particles and mineral deposits can block the spray holes, leaving behind grime and residue.
Standing water: If water isn’t draining properly, it can leave behind a sour, musty smell.
Mold or mildew: Moisture trapped in the door gasket or corners can cause mold growth.
Grease buildup: Layers of soap scum and grease can trap bacteria over time.
Fortunately, with a few cleaning steps, you can get rid of that bad dishwasher smell and keep it from coming back.
If your Samsung dishwasher smells bad, start by deep cleaning the inside. You’ll need white vinegar, baking soda, and a soft brush or toothbrush. Once you’ve gathered what you need, follow these simple steps to give your dishwasher a thorough refresh.
Remove the bottom rack and wipe away any visible food or debris.
Inspect the spray arms for clogs. Use a toothbrush dipped in vinegar to scrub the holes and remove buildup.
Warning: Prolonged exposure to vinegar can wear rubber parts, but it’s safe in moderation.
Place a small dishwasher-safe bowl filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run a normal wash cycle using hot water. The vinegar will break down grease and kill bacteria.
When that cycle finishes, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle. This neutralizes odors and freshens the interior.
If the smell persists and your dishwasher doesn’t have a stainless steel interior, pour one cup of bleach into the bottom and run another hot cycle. (Never use bleach if the inside is stainless steel. It can cause damage. Check your model’s manual first.)
This cleaning process removes grease, soap film, and bacteria that can cause lingering smells. Make it part of your monthly routine to keep your dishwasher clean and fresh.
A dirty filter is one of the most common reasons a Samsung dishwasher smells bad. The filter traps leftover food and prevents it from clogging the drain, but when it becomes clogged, that buildup can quickly lead to unpleasant odors. Cleaning it regularly keeps your dishwasher fresh and running efficiently.
To clean it:
Pull out the bottom rack and locate the filter at the base of the dishwasher.
Twist and lift the cylindrical filter out. Some models have a secondary flat filter underneath; remove that too.
Rinse both filters under warm water and gently scrub them with a soft brush or sponge.
Wash with mild dish soap if needed to remove grease.
Wipe around the filter housing with a damp cloth or paper towel, then reinstall the filters securely.
You should clean the filter once a month or more often if you run the dishwasher frequently. Keeping the filter clean prevents bad smells and helps your dishwasher work better.
If your Samsung dishwasher smells bad and there’s water pooling in the bottom, the drain may be clogged. Food particles and grease can collect there, trapping odor-causing residue.
Here’s how to clean the drain safely:
Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the power at the breaker.
Remove the bottom rack, filter, and drain cover.
Check for visible clogs using a flashlight. If you see debris, pull it out with a straightened wire hanger or brush.
Pour a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda and two tablespoons of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Flush the drain with hot water to remove loosened grime.
Run an empty wash cycle with hot water to rinse everything out.
Keeping the drain clear helps water flow freely, prevents odors, and avoids future repairs. If your Samsung dishwasher smells bad, a clean and unobstructed drain is often the key to fixing it. Regularly checking for buildup and flushing it with hot water can stop debris from collecting and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.
Once your Samsung dishwasher smells bad and you’ve cleaned it, the next step is keeping it fresh for the long term. A few simple habits can make a big difference in preventing odors from returning:
Run hot water before starting a cycle. This ensures your dishwasher begins with hot water for better cleaning power.
Leave the door slightly open after washing. Letting the interior air out helps prevent mold and mildew.
Wipe down the door gasket weekly. The rubber seal around the door traps moisture and crumbs. Clean it with vinegar and a cloth.
Use the right detergent. High-quality detergent reduces residue buildup, while using too much soap can actually make odors worse. For some reliable options, here’s what Amazon recommends for the best dishwasher detergents.
Scrape off large food scraps. You don’t need to pre-rinse dishes, but removing big chunks helps keep the filter clean longer.
Regular cleaning and simple habits like these make a big difference in how your dishwasher smells and performs.
If your Samsung dishwasher smells bad even after a deep clean, there may be a more serious issue. At Service Care, we provide expert dishwasher repair in Birmingham. Our technicians are experienced with Samsung models and can quickly diagnose the cause of recurring smells, drainage problems, or other performance issues.
If your dishwasher isn’t just smelly but also not drying properly, you might be dealing with a second issue. Take a look at our guide on what to do when your dishwasher leaves dishes wet. You’ll find practical steps for improving drying performance and preventing musty smells that come from leftover moisture.
Toxey McDavid
Owner, Service Care
Text us for FASTER SERVICE and get $15 off your repair!
