How to Get Rid of Soap Suds in a Dishwasher

Dishwashers have modernized kitchens by helping to alleviate the chore of washing dishes by hand. With the convenience of technology, however, comes a whole new set of problems and complications such as too many soap suds in the machine. This phenomenon is usually caused by using the wrong soap. Liquid dish soap in the dishwasher, for example, can cause the dishwasher to overflow. Fortunately, getting rid of the problem is easy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White vinegar Cooking oil Table salt Ice cubes Wet/dry vacuum

Several Simple Suggestions

1. Remove all of the dishes and run the dishwasher with a cup of white vinegar to help break down the suds. Repeat if necessary.

2. Scoop out as much of the bubbles as possible with a pot or bowl and run the dishwasher with nothing in it.

3. Sprinkle regular table salt over the bubbles; make sure that all of the dishes are out first. Dump ice cubes into the bubbles as the cold will help to dissipate them. Close up the dishwasher and wait at least 10 minutes. Scoop out as much liquid and bubbles as possible with a bowl and add more salt and ice. Once the bubbles are under control, run the dishwasher with cold water to rinse it out.

4. Put two tablespoons of cooking oil into the middle of the suds and close the dishwasher back up. The oil will help to break down the suds. Check on it in 10-15 minutes and repeat until the suds are almost gone. Run the empty dishwasher with cold water to rinse it out.

5. Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck the bubbles out of the dishwasher and rinse the machine by running it for a cycle with cold water.

Tips & Warnings

• Outside of the dishwasher, sop up as much bubbles and water as you can with dry towels. Keep towels on the floor in front of the dishwasher to help soak up any excess.