Lg Dishwasher Smells Bad
LG Dishwasher Smells Bad
If your LG dishwasher is producing an unpleasant smell, there are several checks you can carry out at home before calling an engineer.
Dishwasher smells bad — all brands
View all LG dishwasher error codes
Why Is My LG Dishwasher Smells Bad?
A bad smell from a dishwasher is almost always caused by food debris trapped in the filter, on the spray arms or in the door seal. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent and resolve most smells.
Common Causes
Dirty or blocked filter
The most common cause. Food particles trapped in the filter will decompose and produce a bad smell. The filter should be cleaned at least once a week.
Food debris on spray arms or in the machine
Food debris can accumulate on the spray arms, in the machine base and in the door seal area.
Dirty door seal
The rubber door seal is a common place for food and grease to accumulate, leading to mould and bad odours.
Stagnant water in the base
If the machine is not draining fully, stagnant water in the base will quickly start to smell.
Infrequent use
Machines left unused for long periods can develop stale water smells.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Clean the filter thoroughly
Remove the filter and wash it under running water, scrubbing with a brush to remove all food debris.
Clean the door seal
Wipe the rubber door seal all the way around with a damp cloth and a small amount of washing up liquid.
Clean the spray arms
Remove the spray arms and rinse them thoroughly.
Run a hot maintenance wash
Run an empty cycle at the hottest temperature with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar in the bottom of the machine.
Check the machine drains fully
Ensure the machine is draining completely after each cycle. If water is left in the base, clean the filter and check the drain hose.
If You Need Spare Parts
If you are confident carrying out the repair yourself, compatible LG dishwasher spare parts are available on Amazon with next day delivery.
Always check your model number before ordering to ensure compatibility.
When To Contact A Professional
If the smell persists after thorough cleaning and the machine is draining correctly, there may be a drainage fault or a faulty component causing stagnant water to remain in the machine.
Related LG Guides
LG dishwasher not washing properly
Related Guides
Dishwasher smells bad — all brands
🔧 Need a spare part? Find compatible parts for your appliance on Amazon with next day Prime delivery. Please double-check the part is compatible with your specific model before ordering. Find parts on Amazon
♻️ Not worth repairing? If your appliance has had its day, eco-friendly refurbished appliances are available at Renew 2 U — better for your wallet and the planet.
