Here is a 30 paragraph, 400-word article on ‘How to Clean Your Dishwasher’ in the requested format:

Dishwashers are one of the hardest working appliances in the kitchen, so it’s important to keep them clean and maintained for optimal performance. Over time, dishwashers can build up grease, grime, and soap scum that reduces efficiency and can leave residue on your dishes. For the best results, it’s a good idea to deep clean your dishwasher at least once a month or if you notice a drop in performance or strange smells coming from the unit. Here are the steps to thoroughly clean your dishwasher:

Start by emptying your dishwasher of any dishes. Remove the lower dish rack so you can access the bottom of the unit. Use a sponge or scrubber to wipe down the seals and gaskets around the door to remove any built-up grease or grime. Pay extra attention to the area where the door seals against the dishwasher when closed.

Use a dishwasher-safe cleaner or a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to wipe down the interior walls and the door. For stuck-on messes, make a paste from baking soda and water and scrub with the paste using a sponge or non-abrasive scrubber. Rinse well with water to remove any remaining residue.

Remove the drain filter and soak in the cleaning solution to loosen any debris. The drain filter prevents large particles from clogging your plumbing, so it’s important to keep it clean. Scrub with a sponge to remove stuck-on food bits and grime. Rinse and reassemble the drain filter before the next step.

Fill the detergent dispenser with a commercial dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar and run an empty hot wash cycle. The high heat will help sanitize the interior and loosen any built-up grease and limescale. Once the cycle finishes, wipe down the interior again with a clean, wet sponge to remove any debris.

Use a toothbrush or scrubber to clean the door gasket, especially in any grooves or folds. Wipe away any dirt or debris to ensure proper sealing. Any leaks or damage to the gasket can impact the performance of your dishwasher.