Effortless dishwasher cleaning: how to keep your maytag spray arm sparkling

A clean spray arm is crucial for ensuring that your Maytag dishwasher effectively cleans your dishes. Over time, food particles and mineral deposits can clog the spray arm, reducing its ability to distribute water evenly and clean your dishes thoroughly. Follow these simple steps to clean the spray arm on your Maytag dishwasher and restore its cleaning power.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Soft cloth
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Toothpick or pipe cleaner
• Dish soap

Instructions:

1. Remove the Spray Arm

• Open the dishwasher door and locate the spray arm. It is usually attached to the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
• Grip the spray arm firmly and pull it straight up to detach it from the dishwasher.

2. Soak the Spray Arm in Vinegar

• Fill a sink or large bowl with warm water and add 1 cup of white vinegar.
• Submerge the spray arm in the vinegar solution and let it soak for 30 minutes.
• The vinegar will help dissolve any food particles or mineral deposits that may be clogging the spray arm holes.

3. Scrub the Spray Arm

• After soaking, rinse the spray arm thoroughly with warm water.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the spray arm to remove any remaining debris.
• Pay special attention to the holes on the spray arm, which are prone to clogging.

4. Clean the Spray Arm Holes

• If there is stubborn debris stuck in the spray arm holes, you can use a toothpick or pipe cleaner to gently dislodge it.
• Insert the toothpick or pipe cleaner into the hole and gently move it around to loosen the clog.
• Rinse the spray arm again to remove any dislodged debris.

5. Add Baking Soda

• Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and use it to wipe down the spray arm.
• Baking soda will help neutralize any remaining vinegar odor and further clean the spray arm.

6. Reinstall the Spray Arm

• Once the spray arm is clean, reinstall it in the dishwasher.
• Align the spray arm with the connection point on the bottom of the dishwasher tub and push it down firmly until it clicks into place.

7. Run a Dishwasher Cycle

• To ensure that the spray arm is working properly, run an empty dishwasher cycle with dish soap.
• This will help flush out any remaining debris and test the spray arm’s performance.

Additional Tips:

• Clean the spray arm regularly, especially if you notice that your dishes are not being cleaned thoroughly.
• Use a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed for cleaning dishwashers, as it will help dissolve grease and mineral deposits.
• If your dishwasher has a hard water problem, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup.

Recommendations:

By following these steps, you can effectively clean the spray arm on your Maytag dishwasher and restore its cleaning power. A clean spray arm will ensure that your dishes are sparkling clean and free of food residue.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: How often should I clean the spray arm on my Maytag dishwasher?
A: It is recommended to clean the spray arm every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you have a hard water problem.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean the spray arm?
A: No, do not use bleach to clean the spray arm. Bleach can damage the rubber components of the dishwasher.

Q: What if the spray arm is still not working after cleaning?
A: If the spray arm is still not working after cleaning, there may be a more serious problem with the dishwasher. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.