First, remove any large debris or food particles from the dishwasher. This can easily be done by pulling out the bottom rack and picking out any obvious pieces of food or trash. 2. Next, fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. If you don't have a vinegar-specific cup, any heat-resistant container will do. 3. Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle. The high heat will help to loosen and dissolve any build-up or grime, while the vinegar will help to sanitize and deodorize the appliance. 4. While the dishwasher is running, take a moment to also clean the exterior. Wipe down the door and control panel with a damp cloth and a small amount of dish soap. Be sure to dry the surfaces thoroughly afterwards to prevent any water damage. 5. Once the dishwasher cycle is complete, remove the vinegar cup and discard any remaining liquid. Take a look inside the dishwasher and see if there are any remaining food particles or debris. If so, use a small brush or toothbrush to gently scrub away any stubborn spots. 6. For an extra deep clean, mix a half cup of baking soda with a quart of warm water and use a soft cloth to scrub the inside of the dishwasher, including the seals, gasket, and spray arm. The baking soda will help to remove any remaining odors or stains, and will leave the appliance smelling fresh and clean. 7. Rinse the dishwasher thoroughly with warm water to remove any cleaning residue. Wipe down the inside and outside of the appliance with a clean, dry cloth. 8. Finally, to help prevent future build-up and maintain the dishwasher's performance, consider using a dishwasher cleaner on a monthly basis. These cleaners are specifically formulated to break down and remove any hard water deposits or grease that can accumulate over time. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions and run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle to apply the cleaner.