Couldn’t have put it better about the spray arms—those things are magnets for gunk. I’ve pulled out everything from toothpicks to bits of broken glass, and once even a Lego head (don’t ask). One thing I’d add: check the door seal too if you’re getting leaks or weird smells. Sometimes old food gets stuck in that little groove and just rots away. Quick wipe with a damp cloth does wonders. And yeah, vinegar is magic, but don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with a funky smell of a different kind...
Lego head in the spray arm—classic. I’ve seen a marble jam up the drain once, so nothing surprises me anymore. Good call on the door seal, too. People forget about that grime trap all the time. Just don’t use bleach, trust me... it’ll wreck the rubber.
Is there actually a safe cleaner for the door seal, then? I’ve always wondered if vinegar is okay or if that’s too harsh too. I’ve seen some people just use dish soap and a toothbrush, but it never seems to get all the gunk out. Also, how do you even spot a clog in the spray arm before it becomes a problem? I feel like I only notice when stuff starts coming out dirty...
Vinegar’s actually fine for the door seal unless your manual says otherwise—just don’t let it sit too long. I usually do a quick wipe with diluted vinegar, then go over it with a damp cloth. For stubborn gunk, baking soda paste works better than just dish soap. As for the spray arm, I pop it off every couple months and run water through the holes. If any spray holes look blocked or water doesn’t come out evenly, you’ve probably got a clog starting. Noticed mine gets little bits of seeds stuck sometimes—super annoying but easy to clear with a toothpick.
If any spray holes look blocked or water doesn’t come out evenly, you’ve probably got a clog starting.
Totally agree on the spray arm—clogs sneak up fast. I actually use a paperclip instead of a toothpick ’cause it’s sturdier. Also, don’t forget to check the filter at the bottom. Pulled out a chunk of pasta once... pretty gross but oddly satisfying.
