Dishwasher odor usually comes from wet food residue or water that is not draining correctly. A perfumed cleaner may hide the smell briefly without fixing the source.
Remove and clean the filter if it is user-serviceable
Follow the manual, lift out the filter, remove debris, and rinse it. Clean the accessible sump area without inserting tools into the pump.
Look for debris around spray arms and seals
Seeds, labels, and small food pieces can collect in hidden areas. Clean surfaces with the appliance cool and never combine incompatible chemicals.
Check whether water remains after a cycle
A small amount below the filter can be normal on some designs. A visible pool in the tub or dirty water flowing back suggests a drainage issue.
Separate food odor from sewer odor
If the smell also comes from the sink, inspect the trap and dishwasher drain connection. In North American installations, a garbage-disposal connection or air gap can affect drainage; follow the local setup and appliance instructions.
Allow some drying between uses
After unloading, leaving the door slightly ajar can reduce retained moisture if the manufacturer permits it and it is safe in your household.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Energy — Dishwashers — Dishwasher operation, efficiency, loading, and maintenance basics.