How Do I Prepare My Dishwasher for Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

Going on vacation is exciting, but it also means leaving your house unattended for a while. If you have a dishwasher, it’s important to prepare it before you leave to ensure that it remains in good condition while you’re away. Here are some tips to help you prepare your dishwasher for vacation:

Empty the Dishwasher

The first step is to empty your dishwasher of all dishes and utensils. Make sure that there are no dirty dishes left behind, as they can create odors and attract pests.

Clean the Dishwasher

Once the dishwasher is empty, it’s time to give it a good cleaning. Start by wiping down the interior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to the areas around the door and the bottom of the unit, as these can collect food particles and debris.

Run a Cleaning Cycle

After wiping down the interior of the dishwasher, run a cleaning cycle using either a commercial dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. This will help remove any lingering odors and sanitize the interior of the unit.

Turn Off Water Supply

To prevent any leaks or water damage while you’re away, turn off the water supply to your dishwasher. You can usually find the shut-off valve under your sink or near your main water supply line.

Unplug Your Dishwasher

To save energy and prevent any electrical issues while you’re away, unplug your dishwasher from its power source. This will also prevent anyone from accidentally turning on the unit while you’re gone.

Leave Door Slightly Open

Finally, leave your dishwasher door slightly open to allow air to circulate inside. This will help prevent any mold or mildew from developing inside the unit.

  • Empty all dishes and utensils
  • Wipe down the interior of the dishwasher
  • Run a cleaning cycle
  • Turn off water supply
  • Unplug your dishwasher
  • Leave door slightly open

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your dishwasher remains in good condition while you’re away on vacation. When you return home, you’ll be able to easily resume using your dishwasher without any issues.