How to Get Rid of Bugs in a Dishwasher

Open your dishwasher and empty it completely. Wipe the inside with a clean cloth until the dishwasher is dry. If necessary, leave the door open for the dishwasher to air-dry for three or four hours. Open the kitchen windows and turn on the stove exhaust fan to improve air circulation.

Pour 1/2 gallon of vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and let it flow down the dishwasher drain, located at the bottom in the center of the appliance. Then pour another half gallon of vinegar directly into the drain. Close the dishwasher.

Set the dishwasher to run on the hottest and longest cycle. Do not add dish detergent to the washer. Let the appliance run through the cycle completely.

Mix 1/2 cup of peppermint oil with 3 cups of warm water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake the bottle well. Spray around the dishwasher and over the counter tops. This will keep bugs from entering the dishwasher and cabinet spaces. Spray a little of the mixture behind the refrigerator and in the pantry to keep bugs from finding other food sources.