How to Clean a Dishwasher That Overflowed

Label bottles of detergent to avoid mishaps.

Putting the wrong soap, such as dish soap, in a dishwasher will cause it to suds up and overflow. The suds can spill out over the dishwasher and cover your kitchen floor as well as completely fill your dishwasher. Avoid this by properly labeling the dish soap and dishwasher soap in a way that you can remember. Remove the suds by dissolving them as completely as possible with natural products.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Liquid measuring cup

Instructions

1. Open the dishwasher and let it sit for several hours. The suds will naturally dissipate, which can save a lot of hassle during the cleaning process.

2. Remove as much of the water as possible with a large liquid measuring cup. Pour the water down the drain.

3. Pour 1 cup white vinegar into the dishwasher and run the cycle for 20 minutes. White vinegar will naturally dissipate the soap suds.

4. Open the dishwasher and remove as much water as possible.

5. Pour another cup of white vinegar into the dishwasher and continue the cycle for another 20 minutes. Repeat the process as much as needed to completely remove the suds and water.

References

• Acme How To: What to Do If the Wrong Soap Was Used
• Finish: Why Did My Dishwasher Overflow With Suds?