How to Prepare Your Dishwasher for Buyer Inspections and Avoid Last-Minute Negotiations

Want your home to shine during inspections? Discover how to deep clean your dishwasher and avoid buyer objections when selling your property.

When potential buyers attend an open home, they’re not just admiring the layout—they’re inspecting the details. From opening kitchen drawers to testing cupboard hinges, buyers are keen to uncover signs of wear, damage, or neglect.

One often-overlooked area? The dishwasher.

Since plumbed-in appliances are typically included in a property sale—and can cost over $1,000 to replace—buyers are well within reason to open your dishwasher and check its condition. If it’s grimy or smells unpleasant, it could lead to awkward negotiations or a request for a replacement.

Here’s how to ensure your dishwasher makes the best impression and doesn’t become a sticking point in your property sale.

1. Check for Residue and Build-Up

If dishes go in without rinsing, leftover food particles can clog the spray arms, filters, and drain hose. Over time, this leads to mould, unpleasant smells, and performance issues. A dirty dishwasher is a red flag to any buyer.

2. Start with a Deep Clean

While commercial dishwasher cleaners offer a quick solution, they rarely remove all food remnants. For a thorough clean, gather the following:

• White vinegar in a spray bottle
• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Microfiber cloth or brush

3. Empty and Clean the Removable Parts

Remove racks, trays, and the spray arm. Spray each part generously with vinegar and let them dry. Then, scrub them with hot soapy water to remove any remaining grime or mould. These pieces should look spotless before going back in.

4. Wipe Down the Interior

Using a microfiber cloth and hot soapy water, wipe the internal walls of the dishwasher. Focus on soap scum, residue, and mouldy spots. Avoid abrasive tools, especially on stainless steel surfaces. By the end, the interior should be clean and odour-free.

5. Clean the Drain Area

A clean drain not only reduces smells but also prevents future issues. Use a sponge soaked in vinegar or warm soapy water to wipe the area thoroughly. This step alone can significantly improve the dishwasher’s freshness.

6. Tackle Filters and Drainpipe

Often the dirtiest components, filters and drainpipes need special attention. Soak them in a sink or bucket filled with boiling soapy water. Use a brush to scrub away grease and built-up food. If necessary, spray with vinegar and wipe clean to remove stubborn residue.

7. Finish with Two Cleaning Cycles

Run your dishwasher twice to seal the deal:

• Cycle 1: Place a bowl of white vinegar on the top rack.
• Cycle 2: Sprinkle baking soda on the base of the machine.

These two steps will neutralise odours and leave the interior sparkling—ready to impress any buyer.

Final Thoughts

A clean, fresh-smelling dishwasher signals to buyers that the home has been well cared for. This small effort can prevent unwanted negotiations and ensure your kitchen passes even the most thorough inspections. If you’re preparing your home for sale, this simple deep-clean routine could save you hundreds—and help seal the deal.