If your Maytag dishwasher smells bad, you are not alone. Many homeowners in the USA face this problem. A bad smell from a dishwasher can make your whole kitchen unpleasant. The good news is simple: you can fix it easily with the right cleaning steps.

In this complete guide, you will learn why a Maytag dishwasher smells, what causes the odor, and how to clean a Maytag dishwasher step by step.

Let’s start.

What Causes a Maytag Dishwasher to Smell Bad?

A bad smell does not come from nowhere. It always has a reason. Below are the most common causes of odor in a Maytag dishwasher.

1. Food Particles Stuck Inside

Small food bits often stay inside the dishwasher.
They hide in:

• The filter
  
• The drain
  
• The spray arms
  

 Over time, food rots.
Rotten food smells bad.

2. Dirty Dishwasher Filter

Maytag dishwashers use a self-cleaning or manual filter.
If the filter is dirty:

• Water cannot drain well
  
• Food stays trapped
  
• Bacteria grow
  

This creates a strong, nasty smell.

3. Standing Water in the Drain

If water does not drain fully, it becomes stale.
Stale water smells like:

• Rotten eggs
  
• Sewage
  
• Mold
  

This is a very common issue.

4. Mold and Mildew Growth

Dishwashers are:

• Dark
  
• Warm
  
• Wet
  

These conditions are perfect for mold.
Mold often grows on:

• Door gasket
  
• Rubber seals
  
• Corners of the tub
  

Mold smells musty and sour.

5. Grease and Soap Buildup

 Grease sticks to dishwasher walls.
Detergent residue builds up over time.
This sticky layer traps dirt and bacteria.

Result?
A strong bad odor.

6. Clogged Garbage Disposal or Sink Drain

Your dishwasher drain connects to the sink.
If the sink or garbage disposal smells bad, the odor can travel back.

This makes your Maytag dishwasher smell bad too.

Is a Smelly Dishwasher Dangerous?

 A bad smell is not just annoying.
It can also be unhealthy.

Dirty dishwashers can:

• Spread bacteria
  
• Contaminate dishes
  
• Affect food safety
  

That is why cleaning is important.

How to Clean a Maytag Dishwasher (Step-by-Step)

Now let’s fix the problem. Follow these steps in order. You do not need special tools.

Step 1: Remove and Clean the Dishwasher Filter

This is the most important step.

How to do it:

1. Open the dishwasher door
   
2. Remove the bottom rack
   
3. Twist and pull out the filter
   
4. Rinse it under warm water
   
5. Use a soft brush and dish soap
   
6. Remove all food and grease
   
7. Put the filter back
   

Do this once a week if you use the dishwasher daily.

Step 2: Clean the Drain Area

Food often hides near the drain.

Steps:

• Remove visible food bits
  
• Wipe the drain area with a cloth
  
• Check for blockages
  

If water stands at the bottom, the drain may be clogged.

Step 3: Clean the Spray Arms

 Spray arms have small holes.
These holes clog easily.

How to clean them:

• Remove spray arms (if removable)
  
• Rinse under warm water
  
• Use a toothpick to clear holes
  
• Reinstall them carefully
  

Clean spray arms improve cleaning and remove odors.

Step 4: Clean the Door Gasket and Seals

The rubber seal traps mold.

What to do:

• Mix warm water and vinegar
  
• Dip a cloth in the solution
  
• Wipe all rubber seals
  
• Focus on corners and folds
  

This removes mold and mildew.

Step 5: Run Vinegar Cleaning Cycle

Vinegar kills odor-causing bacteria.

How to do it:

1. Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack
   
2. Run a hot water cycle
   
3. Do not add detergent
   

This cleans the inside deeply.

Step 6: Use Baking Soda for Fresh Smell

After vinegar, use baking soda.

Steps:

• Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom
  
• Run a short hot cycle
  

This removes leftover smells.

Step 7: Clean the Garbage Disposal and Sink

Do not skip this step.

Tips:

• Run the disposal with hot water
  
• Add baking soda and vinegar
  
• Flush with hot water
  

A clean drain keeps the dishwasher odor-free.

How Often Should You Clean a Maytag Dishwasher?

Follow this schedule:

• Weekly: Rinse filter
  
• Monthly: Deep clean with vinegar and baking soda
  
• Every 3 months: Clean spray arms and seals
  

Regular cleaning prevents bad smells.

How to Prevent Bad Smells in a Maytag Dishwasher

Prevention is easier than cleaning.

Best Prevention Tips

• Scrape food before loading
  
• Do not overload dishes
  
• Use hot water cycles
  
• Leave door open after use
  
• Use quality dishwasher detergent
  
• Clean filter regularly
  

Small habits make a big difference.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Sometimes cleaning is not enough.

Call a technician if:

• Smell comes back quickly
  
• Water does not drain
  
• Dishwasher leaks
  
• You hear strange noises
  

These signs point to mechanical issues.

Common Questions About Maytag Dishwasher Smell

Why does my Maytag dishwasher smell like sewage?

This usually means:

• Clogged drain
  
• Dirty garbage disposal
  
• Standing water
  

Clean the drain and disposal.

Can I use bleach in my Maytag dishwasher?

No.
Bleach can damage:

• Stainless steel
  
• Rubber seals

Use vinegar and baking soda instead.

Why does my dishwasher smell even after cleaning?

Possible reasons:

• Drain hose issue
  
• Mold behind seals
  
• Plumbing problems
  

A professional inspection may be needed.

Final Thoughts

A Maytag dishwasher smells bad mainly because of food buildup, dirty filters, standing water, and mold. The solution is simple and affordable. With regular cleaning and good habits, you can keep your dishwasher fresh and odor-free.

Follow the steps in this guide.

Your kitchen will smell clean again.

Your dishes will be safer.

Your dishwasher will last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why does my Maytag dishwasher smell bad even after washing?

A bad smell usually means food particles are trapped in the filter, drain, or spray arms. Grease and moisture allow bacteria to grow. Regular cleaning of the filter and interior is needed to stop odors.

2. What is the most common cause of dishwasher odor?

The most common cause is a dirty filter. Food debris builds up over time and begins to rot. Standing water in the drain can also create a strong smell.

3. How often should I clean my Maytag dishwasher to prevent smells?

You should clean the filter every two to four weeks. A deep cleaning with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner should be done once a month to keep odors away.

4. Can vinegar really remove dishwasher smells?

Yes. Vinegar helps break down grease and kills odor-causing bacteria. Running a hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar in the top rack can greatly reduce bad smells.

5. Is it safe to use baking soda to clean a dishwasher?

Yes. Baking soda is safe and effective. After cleaning with vinegar, running a short cycle with baking soda helps neutralize lingering odors and freshens the interior.

6. When should I call a professional for a smelly Maytag dishwasher?

You should call a technician if the smell returns quickly after cleaning, if water does not drain properly, or if the odor smells like sewage despite a clean filter and drain.