How to Use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is easy to use: simply place one unwrapped Affresh tablet or pour the liquid version into the detergent dispenser and run your dishwasher on its hottest cycle – that’s all there is to it for a cleaner, fresher-smelling dishwasher.
Why Clean Your Dishwasher?
Dishwashers are designed to clean, but they can also become traps for food particles, grease, and mineral buildup. Over time, this accumulation can reduce cleaning performance, lead to unpleasant odors, and even damage the appliance. Think of it like brushing your teeth – you need to maintain your cleaning appliances, too! Regularly cleaning your dishwasher is vital for maintaining its efficiency and longevity.
Benefits of Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner offers several benefits over DIY methods or ignoring the issue entirely:
- Powerful Cleaning: Affresh is specifically formulated to break down grease, grime, and mineral deposits that accumulate in dishwashers.
- Odor Removal: It effectively eliminates unpleasant odors, leaving your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
- Improved Performance: By removing buildup, Affresh helps your dishwasher operate more efficiently, improving cleaning performance.
- Easy to Use: The tablet or liquid form is simple to use and requires minimal effort.
- Extends Dishwasher Life: Regular cleaning with Affresh can help extend the life of your dishwasher by preventing corrosion and buildup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
Using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide for both tablet and liquid formulations:
Using Affresh Tablets:
- Empty the Dishwasher: Ensure your dishwasher is completely empty of dishes and utensils.
- Locate the Detergent Dispenser: Find the detergent dispenser compartment inside your dishwasher.
- Place the Tablet: Unwrap one Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner tablet and place it in the detergent dispenser. Do not use soap.
- Select a Cycle: Choose the hottest wash cycle available on your dishwasher. A normal cycle is usually sufficient if there isn’t a dedicated ‘clean’ or ‘sanitizing’ setting.
- Run the Dishwasher: Start the dishwasher and let it run through the entire cycle.
Using Affresh Liquid:
- Empty the Dishwasher: Ensure your dishwasher is completely empty of dishes and utensils.
- Remove the Cap: Carefully remove the cap from the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner liquid bottle.
- Invert the Bottle: Place the inverted, unopened bottle in the silverware basket of your dishwasher. The wax plug will melt during the cleaning cycle.
- Select a Cycle: Choose the hottest wash cycle available on your dishwasher. A normal cycle is usually sufficient if there isn’t a dedicated ‘clean’ or ‘sanitizing’ setting.
- Run the Dishwasher: Start the dishwasher and let it run through the entire cycle.
- Remove the Empty Bottle: Once the cycle is complete, carefully remove and dispose of the empty bottle.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a simple process, some issues may arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Tablet Not Dissolving: Ensure your dishwasher’s water temperature is hot enough. Check your water heater settings. Make sure the dispenser door opens properly and isn’t blocked by anything.
- Lingering Odor: This could indicate a significant buildup of grime. Try running a second cycle with another Affresh tablet or liquid. Consider cleaning the dishwasher filter manually.
- No Improvement: If the dishwasher remains dirty or smelly after several cycles, consider inspecting the spray arms for clogs and cleaning them separately. Check the water inlet valve and ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Frequency of Use
How often should you use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?
- General Recommendation: Most manufacturers recommend using Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner once a month to maintain optimal performance.
- Heavy Use: If you use your dishwasher frequently (e.g., more than once a day), consider cleaning it more often (e.g., every two weeks).
- Hard Water: If you live in an area with hard water, which can lead to mineral buildup, more frequent cleaning might be necessary.
- Visible Buildup or Odor: If you notice visible buildup or unpleasant odors, it’s a clear indication that your dishwasher needs cleaning, regardless of your regular cleaning schedule.
Comparison Table: Affresh vs. DIY Solutions
| Feature | Affresh | DIY Solutions (e.g., Vinegar & Baking Soda) |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation | Specifically formulated cleaning agents | Common household ingredients |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective at removing grease & mineral buildup | Can be effective for mild cleaning |
| Ease of Use | Very easy (tablet or liquid) | Requires mixing and multiple steps |
| Odor Elimination | Excellent odor removal | Can help, but may not be as effective |
| Potential Damage | Minimal risk of damage to dishwasher | Incorrect mixtures can damage certain parts |
| Cost | Slightly more expensive per use | Generally less expensive per use |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While using Affresh is easy, these common mistakes can hinder its effectiveness:
- Using Soap: Do not add regular dish soap or dishwasher detergent when using Affresh. It’s designed to work independently.
- Not Emptying the Dishwasher: Affresh is a cleaner, not a pre-wash. An empty dishwasher allows the cleaner to reach all areas effectively.
- Using the Wrong Cycle: A short or delicate cycle may not provide enough heat or water pressure to dissolve the cleaner and remove buildup effectively. Always use the hottest and longest available cycle.
- Skipping Regular Cleaning: Waiting until your dishwasher is visibly dirty or smelly makes the cleaning process more difficult. Regular cleaning is key to preventing significant buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner with dishes inside the dishwasher?
No, you should always run Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner in an empty dishwasher. The cleaner is designed to remove buildup and residue, and running it with dishes will reduce its effectiveness and could potentially leave residue on your dishes.
2. What if I have a stainless steel interior? Does Affresh work on stainless steel?
Yes, Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is safe and effective for use in dishwashers with stainless steel interiors. Its formula is designed to clean without damaging the stainless steel.
3. Can Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner remove hard water stains?
Yes, Affresh is very effective at removing hard water stains and mineral buildup. Regular use can help prevent these stains from forming in the first place.
4. How often should I use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner if I have hard water?
If you have hard water, you should use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner more frequently, about every 2 weeks, rather than the standard monthly recommendation. This will help prevent mineral deposits from accumulating and affecting your dishwasher’s performance.
5. Can I use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner to clean other appliances?
No, Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is specifically designed for use in dishwashers. Do not use it to clean other appliances. There are other Affresh products that are made for cleaning other specific appliances.
6. Is Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner safe for septic systems?
Generally, Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is considered safe for septic systems when used as directed. However, it’s always a good idea to check the product label and your septic system manufacturer’s recommendations to be sure.
7. What ingredients are in Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?
The specific ingredients in Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner are considered proprietary information, but generally include cleaning agents, chelating agents (to bind to mineral deposits), and surfactants (to help lift away grime).
8. Where can I purchase Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is widely available at most major retailers, including grocery stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers like Amazon.
9. What is the difference between the tablet and liquid versions of Affresh?
Both the tablet and liquid versions of Affresh are equally effective at cleaning your dishwasher. The main difference is the method of application. Tablets are placed in the dispenser, while the liquid bottle is inverted in the silverware basket. Personal preference usually dictates which one is chosen.
10. Can I use more than one Affresh tablet or bottle at a time?
It is not recommended to use more than one Affresh tablet or bottle at a time. Using too much cleaner can lead to excessive suds or residue and may not improve cleaning performance. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
11. My dishwasher is brand new. Do I still need to use Affresh?
Yes, even if your dishwasher is brand new, it’s still a good idea to start using Affresh regularly to prevent buildup from the start. This will help maintain its performance and longevity.
12. What should I do if Affresh doesn’t completely eliminate odors?
If Affresh doesn’t completely eliminate odors, you may need to manually clean the dishwasher. Check the filter, spray arms, and door seals for any trapped food particles or debris. You can also try running a second cycle with Affresh or using a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed for severe odor problems.