Dishwasher Smells Like Egg: 7 Common Reasons (Solved)

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A foul odor emanating from your dishwasher can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it smells like eggs.

This guide aims to help you identify the root causes of this issue and provides step-by-step troubleshooting solutions to eliminate the egg-like smell from your dishwasher.

Before proceeding, ensure your safety by disconnecting the dishwasher from its power source.

Dishwasher Smells Like Egg: 7 Common Reasons

Dishwasher-smelling like egg is typically caused by food particles, clogged filters, or blocked drain hoses.

So now we have answered the main question, let’s dive into troubleshooting.

Step 1: Check for Food Residue

Often, the presence of leftover food debris can cause unpleasant smells in the dishwasher.

Follow these steps to clean the dishwasher of any food residue:

1.1. Remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack and inspect the drain area for any visible food particles or debris.

1.2. Wearing gloves, manually remove any food scraps you find, and dispose of them in the trash.

1.3. Run the garbage disposal to ensure any food particles in the drain are flushed away

1.4. Use a dishwasher-safe brush to scrub the interior walls, door gasket, and any other areas where food might accumulate.

Step 2: Clean the Filter and Spray Arms

A clogged filter and dirty spray arms can hinder proper water circulation, leading to a build-up of bacteria and unpleasant odors.

Here’s what you need to do:

2.1. Locate the dishwasher’s filter, typically found at the bottom of the tub. Remove the filter as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

2.2. Rinse the filter under running water to remove any debris or residue.

2.3. Inspect the spray arms for clogs or blockages. Use a toothpick or a small brush to clean out any obstructions.

2.4. Reinstall the cleaned filter and spray arms back into the dishwasher.

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose

A clogged or improperly installed drain hose can cause stagnant water to accumulate and produce an egg-like smell. Follow these steps to inspect the drain hose:

3.1. Locate the dishwasher’s drain hose, usually found underneath the sink or attached to the garbage disposal.

3.2. Disconnect the drain hose and inspect it for any clogs or kinks.

3.3. If you find a clog, use a plumbing snake or a straightened coat hanger to clear the obstruction.

3.4. Reconnect the drain hose securely.

Step 4: Run a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and can help eliminate lingering smells in your dishwasher. Follow these steps to run a cleaning cycle:

4.1. Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher.

4.2. Run a hot water cycle on the longest and hottest setting.

4.3. Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and allow it to air out for a few hours.

Step 5: Check Water Quality Sometimes, water with high sulfur content can cause the dishwasher to smell like eggs.

To address this issue, consider these steps:

5.1. Contact your water provider or conduct a water quality test to check for elevated sulfur levels.

5.2. If the water quality is the problem, installing a water filter or using a water softener might help.

Final Thoughts

Egg-like dishwasher odour is frequently brought on by food particles, clogged filters, or blocked drain hoses.

By following this troubleshooting guide, you can identify and resolve the reasons behind the egg-like smell in your dishwasher.

Regular maintenance and proper cleaning practices will help keep your dishwasher running efficiently and odor-free.

However, if the issue persists despite your efforts, it’s recommended to contact a professional appliance technician for further diagnosis and repair.

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