Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? How to Fix It

Few things are more frustrating than running a full dishwasher cycle only to open the door and find dirty, streaked, or greasy dishes. If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not cleaning as well as it used to, it’s probably not a serious issue and is pretty simple to troubleshoot and resolve, even without a service call.

This guide will walk you through the most common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher might not be cleaning properly, and how to resolve the issue. First, we’ll start with some basic checks and move forward from there.

Step 1: Check the Basics

Sometimes the problem is not with the dishwasher itself but with how it is being used.

Here are some basic checks to start with:

• Avoid overcrowding. If dishes are packed too tightly, water and detergent cannot reach every surface. Make sure plates, bowls, and glasses are spaced so that the water spray can circulate.
• Face dirty surfaces inward. Spray arms direct water from the center outward. Place items with the dirtiest sides facing the middle.
• Separate utensils. Nesting forks and spoons together prevents water flow. Mix them up in the basket with handles down.
• Scrape, don’t rinse. You do not need to pre-rinse completely, but scraping off bones, pits, and large pieces of food prevents clogs and makes cleaning easier.

Sometimes, ensuring all these basic checks are taken care of will fix the problem. If not, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Clean the Spray Arms

Spray arms push water through tiny holes at high pressure. If those holes are blocked, your dishes will not get clean.

To clean the spray arms: 

1. Remove the bottom rack to access the lower spray arm.
2. Take out the spray arm by twisting it counterclockwise or lifting it straight up, depending on the model.
3. For the upper spray arm, you may need to remove the top rack. Check your user manual for the exact instructions for your model.
4. Rinse the spray arms under hot water.
5. Use a toothpick or thin wire to clear any blocked holes. Check both sides of the arms.
6. If there is mineral buildup, soak the spray arms in white vinegar for 30 minutes and scrub gently with a soft brush.

Once the spray arms are clean, run a short cycle to test performance.

Step 3: Inspect and Clean the Filter

Whirlpool dishwashers, like most, have a filter that traps food particles. If the filter is clogged, this reduces water flow and can also spread grime back onto your dishes! 

To clean the filter:

• Locate the cylindrical filter under the lower spray arm.
• Twist counterclockwise to remove it.
• Rinse under hot water and scrub gently with a soft brush.
• If heavily soiled, soak it in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing.

It’s recommended to clean the filter monthly as this will help maintain strong water circulation and keep your dishes clean.

Step 4: Confirm Water Temperature

Dishwashers need hot water to work effectively.

The water entering your Whirlpool dishwasher should be at least 120°F (49°C).

To check your water temperature:

• Run your kitchen sink until the water is hot before starting a cycle. This ensures the dishwasher fills with properly heated water.
• If water feels lukewarm, check your water heater settings.
• If you already have the heater set correctly but still notice poor results,
  hard water could be the cause. Hard water reduces detergent effectiveness and leaves residue on dishes.

Step 5: Use the Right Detergent

The type of detergent and how much you use matter more than you might think.

• Too little detergent leads to poor cleaning.
• Too much can leave a film on dishes.
• Powder detergents lose strength over time, especially if stored in humid places.
• Dishwasher pods or tablets are pre-measured and often include rinse aid, making them a reliable option.

If you live in a hard water area, look for detergents specifically formulated to handle mineral deposits. If not, your dishwasher might need a deep clean.

Step 6: Deep Clean the Dishwasher

Over time, grease, soap scum, and minerals can coat the interior of your machine. Regular deep cleaning keeps it working at its best.

To deep clean your dishwasher: 

• Place a dishwasher-safe bowl with two cups of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle.
• Follow this with a cycle where you sprinkle one cup of baking soda on the bottom of the tub.
• For stubborn buildup, use a commercial dishwasher cleaner according to the package directions.

This helps remove residue, freshen the interior, and improve overall performance. If your dishwasher is really dirty, you can repeat this process until clean.

Step 7: Inspect Door Seals and Gaskets

Dirty or moldy door seals can lead to odors and reduce cleaning power.

• Wipe the rubber seals around the door with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Pay special attention to the bottom seal, where food particles often collect.
• Make this part of your routine cleaning to prevent buildup.

Step 8: Evaluate Water Pressure and Circulation

Dishwashers need at least 20 psi of water pressure. If your home has weak pressure, your Whirlpool unit may not perform well.

• Turn on your kitchen faucet to full strength. If water flow seems weak, you may have a plumbing issue that requires professional help.
• Also, check inside the dishwasher to make sure nothing is blocking the spray arms. Large items like baking sheets or tall pots can prevent rotation and create “dead zones” where dishes remain dirty.

Step 9: Refill Rinse Aid

Rinse aid reduces water spots and improves drying. It is especially helpful in areas with hard water.

• Check the rinse aid dispenser, usually a blue cap near the detergent compartment.
• If empty, refill it with rinse aid solution.

This simple step can make glassware noticeably clearer and shinier.

Know When to Call a Professional

Most issues can be handled with the steps above. However, some problems require professional service. Call an appliance repair technician if you notice:

• Persistent cleaning issues after thorough DIY fixes
• Strange noises during cycles
• Leaks around the door or under the unit
• Error codes on the display
• Multiple problems with a dishwasher more than 10 years old

A technician can confirm whether a repair or replacement makes more sense.

Final Thoughts

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not cleaning dishes, the solution is often simple and easy. Start with the basics, like how you pack your dishwasher, checking water temperature, pressure, and giving the dishwasher a thorough cleaning. In most cases, these steps restore performance without needing a repair bill.

When in doubt, remember that professional help is always an option. But with a little regular care, your Whirlpool dishwasher should keep running smoothly for years to come!