Bosch Dishwasher: foul odor

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a foul odor from your Bosch dishwasher? This persistent unpleasant smell, often reminiscent of musty or rotten food, can occur during or after cycles, even with clean dishes. Discover the underlying causes and solutions to eliminate these odors effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Possible Causes

Food debris and organic buildup in filter and sump

How to Identify: Foul smell strongest when door opens; visible food particles or gunk in the filter area; slower draining.

Part: Dishwasher filter and sump

Preventive Maintenance

Clean filter: Food buildup and odor
Frequency: monthly
Run hot cleaning cycle with vinegar or Bosch dishwasher cleaner: Bacterial and residue buildup that causes odors
Frequency: every 1-2 months
Leave door slightly open after cycles: Mold and mildew growth
Frequency: after each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Dishwasher foul odor?

The foul odor is often caused by food debris and organic buildup in the filter and sump.

How do I fix Bosch Dishwasher foul odor myself?

Currently, there are no DIY solutions available for this issue.

How much does it cost to fix foul odor?

Professional repair costs are not listed, but addressing the odor may require expert assistance.

When should I call a technician for foul odor?

Consider calling a technician if the odor persists, as it may indicate a deeper issue.

References & Sources

How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher Official
Dishwasher smells bad | Bosch UK Official
Why Bosch Dishwasher Stinks Repair-Blog

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

85%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Food debris trapped in the filter or spray arms
Clogged drain hose or improper installation
Mold or mildew buildup in the door seal or interior

User Suggested Solutions

Clean the filter and spray arms. Remove the bottom rack, take out the filter, rinse it under warm water, and use a soft brush to remove any debris. Check the spray arms for blockages and clean them as needed.
Inspect and clean the drain hose. Ensure that the hose is properly installed and not kinked. Disconnect it and check for clogs, using a long brush or water to clear any blockages.
Clean the door seal and interior. Wipe down the rubber door seal with a mixture of vinegar and water to remove mold or mildew. Run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to eliminate odors.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

Dishwasher smells weird after every cycle?

Community Discussions

weird damp smell after washing

Check for proper drain hose installation and ensure high loop is present to prevent sewer gas backup.