How to Clean Out the Bottom Basin of a Whirlpool Dishwasher

Open the dishwasher door and remove the dish racks from the unit. Use a towel to wipe up any bits of food from the bottom of the dishwasher. Wipe around the drain and remove the drain filter from the unit to remove food remnants, if necessary. Replace the filter after wiping.

Fill a small container with water and add a drop or two of dishwashing liquid. Mix the solution with a spoon or other kitchen utensil to form a lather and pour it onto the bottom basin of the dishwasher. Use a scouring pad or old toothbrush to scrub away any stains or buildup.

Put the dish and cup racks back in the unit. Fill the dishwasher soap compartments with baking soda and white distilled vinegar. The baking soda should go in the powder or dry soap compartment and the vinegar in the liquid soap compartment. Close the dishwasher door and run the unit on its hottest water setting. The baking soda and vinegar combine to produce a foaming action that further cleanses the bottom as well as the entire interior surface of the unit.