Maintenance Guides / Appliances

Inspect dishwasher spray arms and seals

Difficulty: easyTime: 15 mins

Why it matters

Clogged spray arms leave dishes dirty, forcing you to re-wash. A failing door seal will slowly leak water onto your kitchen floor, rotting the subfloor beneath.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Pull the bottom rack out and lift or unscrew the lower spray arm (most just pull off).

  • 2

    Hold it up to the light and look for blocked spray holes.

  • 3

    Use a toothpick or fine wire to clear each hole — limescale and food bits are the usual culprits.

  • 4

    Rinse the arm under hot water and spin it on the post to confirm it moves freely.

  • 5

    Repeat for the upper spray arm if accessible.

  • 6

    Wipe down the rubber door gasket with a 50/50 vinegar-water solution and check for cracks or sagging.