How to Remove Calcium Deposits in a Dishwasher

Use vinegar and baking soda to remove calcium deposits from a dishwasher.

Dishwashers can acquire a scaly white film over time. This film is a result of minerals such as calcium within the water that react with the soap and components of the dishwasher. Water that has a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium is often referred to as "hard water." Luckily you can remove calcium deposits from a dishwasher fairly easily using household products. Cleaning these deposits from your dishwasher will help this appliance to function more efficiently.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Rags
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Dip a clean rag into a container of white vinegar.

2. Wipe off all of the inner and outer surfaces in the dishwasher with the moistened rag, rinsing with water and reapplying vinegar as needed.

3. Fill a cup with white vinegar and place it in the top rack of the dishwasher. Do not place any other items to be cleaned in the dishwasher.

4. Sprinkle a cup of baking soda onto the bottom portion of the dishwasher.

5. Run the dishwasher through a cycle at its hottest temperature setting.

References

• Mrs. Clean: Dishwasher Cleaning Tips
• "How the Queen Cleans Everything"; Linda Cobb; 2003