Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Like Wet Dog After Running A Cycle

If you've opened your dishwasher after a completed cycle only to be met with a musty, damp odor reminiscent of a wet dog, you're not alone—and no, your appliance hasn’t suddenly developed a fur coat. This unpleasant smell is surprisingly common and usually points to deeper hygiene or mechanical issues within the machine. While dishwashers are designed to clean dishes, they can ironically become breeding grounds for odor-causing bacteria, mold, and trapped organic debris if not properly maintained.

The wet-dog-like stench typically stems from stagnant water, decomposing food particles, or microbial growth in hidden areas such as the filter, drain hose, or spray arms. Left unaddressed, these odors won't just linger—they can transfer to your dishes, making them smell unclean even when visually spotless. The good news? With the right knowledge and routine care, this problem is both preventable and fixable.

What Causes the Wet Dog Smell in Dishwashers?

The signature “wet dog” odor is often described as musky, sour, or slightly rancid—similar to the smell of a soaked pet towel left in a laundry basket. In dishwashers, this scent arises primarily from biological sources rather than mechanical failure. Here's where it typically comes from:

• Trapped food debris: Small food particles—especially proteins like meat, cheese, or eggs—can slip past filters and accumulate in crevices. Over time, they decompose, producing volatile organic compounds that emit foul odors.
• Standing water: If water doesn’t fully drain after a cycle, it pools in the bottom of the tub, around the pump, or in the drain hose. This stagnant moisture becomes a perfect environment for bacteria and mildew.
• Clogged or dirty filter: Most modern dishwashers have self-cleaning filters, but many still require manual cleaning. A clogged filter traps gunk and restricts proper drainage, leading to persistent smells.
• Mold and mildew in seals and gaskets: The rubber door gasket can trap moisture and food residue, fostering microbial growth. These microorganisms release odor molecules similar to those found in damp animals.
• Infrequent use: Running your dishwasher once a week or less allows grime to build up without regular flushing cycles, increasing the risk of odor development.

“Odors in dishwashers are rarely about the machine itself—it’s about what’s living inside it. Bacteria like Pseudomonas thrive in warm, moist environments and produce compounds that smell distinctly like wet fur.” — Dr. Lena Pruitt, Microbiologist & Appliance Hygiene Researcher

Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminate the Odor

Removing the wet dog smell requires more than just running an empty cycle. You need to target the root causes: organic buildup, poor drainage, and microbial colonies. Follow this detailed cleaning process to restore freshness.

1. Remove and clean the filter: Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher (consult your manual if unsure). Twist or lift it out carefully. Rinse under hot water, using an old toothbrush to scrub away stuck-on grime. Soak in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes if heavily soiled.
2. Inspect and clear the drain basket: Check the area around the filter for large debris—bones, pits, or coffee grounds. Clear any obstructions that could impede drainage.
3. Run a vinegar cycle: Place a tall heat-safe cup filled with 1 cup of white distilled vinegar on the top rack. Run a full hot-water cycle (not eco or quick wash). Vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits and kill odor-causing bacteria.
4. Follow with a baking soda scrub: After the vinegar cycle, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short hot cycle. This neutralizes lingering odors and gently scrubs interior surfaces.
5. Clean the door gasket: Wipe down the rubber seal around the door with a cloth soaked in equal parts water and vinegar. Pay attention to folds and creases where mold hides. Dry thoroughly afterward.
6. Flush the spray arms: Remove the upper and lower spray arms (usually unscrew or snap off). Rinse under running water and poke out any clogged holes with a toothpick. Reinstall securely.
7. Check the drain hose: If accessible, inspect the drain hose (typically located behind the lower panel or under the sink) for kinks or blockages. Disconnect and flush with hot water if necessary.

Tip: Perform this deep clean every 1–2 months to prevent odor recurrence, especially if you run partial loads or skip pre-rinsing.

Prevention Checklist: Keep Your Dishwasher Fresh Long-Term

Once the smell is gone, maintain it with consistent habits. Use this checklist monthly:

• ✔️ Clean the filter every 2–4 weeks
• ✔️ Scrape off large food scraps before loading (don’t rinse excessively—modern detergents need some food to activate)
• ✔️ Leave the door ajar after each cycle to allow air circulation and drying
• ✔️ Run a hot water tap in the sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure optimal inlet temperature
• ✔️ Use rinse aid to improve drying and reduce water spots
• ✔️ Avoid overloading—ensure spray arms rotate freely
• ✔️ Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner monthly

Do’s and Don’ts: Common Mistakes That Cause Odors

Do	Don’t
Scrape plates thoroughly before loading	Rinse dishes completely—detergent needs food residue to work effectively
Use high-quality detergent pods or powder	Use regular dish soap—it creates suds and damages the machine
Leave the door open slightly between cycles	Close the door tightly after every use—this traps moisture
Check and clean the filter regularly	Ignore the filter because “it’s self-cleaning”
Run full loads when possible	Run small, frequent loads that don’t generate enough heat or water flow

Real Example: How One Household Fixed Chronic Dishwasher Smells

Sarah M., a homeowner in Portland, OR, noticed her dishwasher began emitting a strong wet dog smell every few weeks despite regular use. She tried vinegar rinses and commercial cleaners, but the odor returned within days. Frustrated, she pulled the unit out and inspected the back. What she found was alarming: the drain hose had a sharp bend underneath the sink, preventing complete drainage. Water was pooling in the sump and rotting food bits were fermenting in the filter.

After straightening the hose, replacing the old filter, and doing a two-step vinegar-baking soda cycle, the smell vanished. She now cleans the filter every three weeks and leaves the door cracked overnight. Two years later, her dishwasher runs quietly and smells neutral. Her experience underscores the importance of checking not just the visible parts, but also the plumbing behind the scenes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?

No—bleach should never be used in most dishwashers, especially if you have stainless steel interiors or a shared drain line with a garbage disposal. Bleach can corrode metal components and react with leftover food waste to create toxic fumes. Stick to vinegar, baking soda, or manufacturer-approved cleaners.

Why does the smell only appear after certain cycles?

This often happens after lighter loads (e.g., glasses-only cycles) that use cooler water and shorter durations. These settings don’t generate enough heat to fully sanitize or dry the interior, leaving behind dampness and undissolved residues. Opt for hotter, longer cycles periodically—even with just a few items—to flush the system.

Is the wet dog smell dangerous?

While not immediately hazardous, persistent odors indicate microbial growth that could affect individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Additionally, bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella can survive in dirty dishwashers and potentially contaminate dishes. Addressing the smell is a matter of hygiene, not just comfort.

When to Call a Professional

Most odor problems can be resolved with DIY cleaning, but some signs suggest deeper issues requiring professional help:

• Water visibly pools in the bottom after multiple cycles
• Drain pump makes grinding or humming noises
• Smell persists after thorough cleaning and filter replacement
• Dishes come out consistently damp or cloudy

If your dishwasher is over 7–10 years old, internal components like the pump, check valve, or chopper blade may be failing. A licensed technician can diagnose drainage inefficiencies or recommend upgrades if needed.

Tip: Schedule a professional inspection every 2–3 years if you rely heavily on your dishwasher—preventative maintenance can extend its life by 3+ years.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Dishwasher’s Hygiene

The wet dog smell coming from your dishwasher isn’t normal—and it’s not something you should ignore. It’s a signal that organic waste and microbes are thriving in dark, damp corners where water and food meet. But with a little awareness and consistent care, you can eliminate the odor and keep your appliance fresh, efficient, and hygienic.

Start today: pull out the filter, wipe the gasket, and run a vinegar cycle. Make simple habits part of your routine—like cracking the door open after use or scheduling monthly deep cleans. Your dishes will come out cleaner, your kitchen will smell better, and you’ll avoid bigger repairs down the road.

💬 Have a tip that worked for you? Share your experience in the comments below—your solution might help another homeowner ditch the stink for good.