The dishwasher is one of the hardest-working appliances in most households and is often used at least once per day to make the process of cleaning dirty plates and dishes that much easier. But while the dishwasher saves you from having to roll up your sleeves and scrub pots and pans in the sink, if it isn’t properly cleaned itself every now and again, it can become subject to a build-up of limescale.

The unsightly chalky substance can form inside your dishwasher due to high levels of calcium and magnesium in the water. When the water heats up during wash and rinse cycles, these minerals combine and leave solid deposits behind on the surface of your dishwasher once the water has evaporated. Of course, it takes time for these deposits to build up but the minerals are left behind after each wash to gradually form a layer of limescale inside your appliance.

If limescale isn’t removed it can affect the performance of your dishwasher, making it less efficient. Not only can it corrode pipes and other internal components - which can then lead to leaks - it can make it harder for the dishwasher to heat the water, resulting in higher energy use and possible damage to the heating element. It can also cause damage to the dishes you’re trying to wash, leaving them cloudy or scratched, rather than squeaky clean.

But thankfully eradicating limescale from dishwashers doesn’t have to require buying new parts, or replacing the machine entirely, as it can be easily removed with two natural ingredients - and you likely already have these to hand in your kitchen.

Appliance experts at AO say limescale and nasty dishwasher odours will “melt away” instantly simply by using vinegar and ice cubes.

Vinegar is naturally acidic so it is particularly effective at breaking down limescale deposits, as well as eliminating unpleasant smells, while the ice provides a scrubbing effect to help remove the substance as it melts.

AO appliance expert Gwil Snook explains: “Over time, dishwashers can develop limescale build-up and lingering odours from food residue, leading to a smelly dishwasher. This build-up can reduce its efficiency and could cause it to deteriorate more quickly. 

“Dropping ice cubes made from a simple mix of water and vinegar into the cutlery tray before running a short cycle will break down stubborn limescale and eliminate lingering odours. This is a simple yet effective way to refresh your machine. 

“The acidity of the vinegar helps to break it down, while the ice provides a gentle scrubbing effect as it melts. This method is an easy, chemical-free way to keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and performing at its best.”