Skip to Content

AEG dishwasher cleaning programme: here's how to start it

Do you notice that your AEG dishwasher is no longer washing as cleanly, is emitting an unpleasant smell, or leaving limescale marks on your glasses? Then it is time for the cleaning programme. AEG calls this the Machine Care programme: a hot water cleaning cycle that removes grease, limescale, and food residues from the inside of your dishwasher.

On this page, you will read step by step how to activate the AEG cleaning programme, how to clean the filter and spray arms, and when a technician is necessary.

Why does your AEG dishwasher need a cleaning programme?

Grease, limescale, and food residues gradually accumulate in the filter, spray arms, and water channels of your dishwasher. The result: dishes remain dirty, the machine smells, or error codes appear on the display. The Machine Care programme thoroughly cleans the inside — the condition is that you first manually clean the filter and spray arms.

AEG recommends running the cleaning programme every 2 to 3 months.

Cleaning your AEG dishwasher: step by step


Step 1 — Clean the filter

The filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, near the base plate.

  1. Unscrew the cylindrical filter (or follow the manual for your model).
  2. Rinse the filter under warm running water. Use a soft brush for stubborn dirt.
  3. Also clean the filter area itself with a cloth.
  4. Replace the filter and ensure it is securely fastened.

Tip: a clogged filter is the most common cause of poorly washing or smelly dishwashers.


Step 2 — Clean the spray arms

The spray arms have small holes that can become clogged with limescale or food residues.

  1. Remove the lower and upper spray arms (unscrew or unclip — refer to your manual).
  2. Check the holes: use a toothpick or satay stick to dislodge any clogs.
  3. Rinse the spray arms thoroughly under running water.
  4. Reattach them and check that they can rotate freely.


Step 3 — Clean the door seal and door edge

The seal around the door and the door edge are places where mould and grease accumulate.

  1. Wipe the door seal with a damp cloth. Pay attention to folds and seams.
  2. Also clean the door edge and the inside of the door.
  3. Dry everything thoroughly.


Step 4 — Start the Machine Care programme

Once the filter and spray arms are clean:

  1. Sprinkle a packet of AEG Clean & Care machine cleaner on the bottom of the empty dishwasher (no dishes inside).
  2. Activate the Machine Care programme: press the buttons "Auto(sense)" and "Extra Power" simultaneously for about 3 seconds pressed.
  3. Close the door — the programme starts automatically.

No "Auto(sense)" or "Extra Power" on your model? Consult the manual of your AEG dishwasher. On some models, you activate it via a menu button. Do you not have a cleaning programme? Then use the intensive programme at high temperature.


Rinse aid and salt refill

Do this immediately after cleaning:

  • Rinse aid: reservoir on the inside of the door, next to the detergent compartment. Fill up to the maximum level.
  • Dishwasher salt: reservoir at the bottom by the filter. Use a funnel and special dishwasher salt — not table salt.

Are you using 3-in-1 tablets? Then separate salt and rinse aid refilling is not necessary.

Descale AEG dishwasher with vinegar

Do you see white deposits in the dishwasher? Vinegar can remove limescale and neutralise unpleasant odours.

  1. Place a cup of white vinegar or cleaning vinegar in the top drawer.
  2. Start a long programme without dishes.
  3. Afterwards, the dishwasher is odourless and free of limescale.

Note: use vinegar a maximum of once per quarter as a supplement — never in combination with soda in the same cycle. AEG recommends a special machine cleaner as the preferred method.

AEG dishwasher error codes after cleaning

Sometimes error messages still appear after (or despite) the cleaning programme. The most common:


Error code i30 — Water in the drip tray

Error code i30 means that the leak detection sensor has detected water in the bottom of the dishwasher (AquaStop). Possible causes: leaking pump or hose, worn door seal, faulty float in the drip tray.

What you can do: unplug it, carefully tilt the dishwasher forward so that the water drains away, then set it upright again. Does i30 return? Then a technician is needed.


Error code i44 — Drainage problem

Error code i44 indicates a problem with the drain pump or the drain hose. Check: is the drain hose not kinked? Is the filter completely clean and correctly reinserted?

Does i44 remain after cleaning? Then the drain pump is likely faulty.

Cleaning programme does not help — what now?

The cleaning programme resolves maintenance issues, but not mechanical defects. If your AEG dishwasher still does not wash dishes properly after cleaning, shows an error code (i30, i44, or others), makes noise, leaks, or does not start at all — then there is likely a faulty part.

We.repair sends a certified AEG technician to your home throughout Belgium, often as soon as the next working day.

Book an appointment with a technician

Book your repair now

Frequently asked questions


Press and hold the "Auto(sense)" and "Extra Power" buttons simultaneously for about 3 seconds. First, sprinkle a packet of machine cleaner on the bottom of the empty dishwasher. For models without these buttons: consult the manual or use the intensive programme.

AEG advises every 2 to 3 months. Regular maintenance prevents odour problems, limescale, and premature wear.

A machine cleaner is available in supermarkets or online. We.repair does not recommend a specific brand. Vinegar or soda are supplements, not replacements.

Error code i30 activates the AquaStop protection to prevent water damage. The machine stops itself. Not dangerous, but the leak must be repaired.

Yes — all AEG dishwasher models, including built-in models with AquaStop, ComfortLift, and integrated series. Our technicians work with original or equivalent quality parts.

Usually the same day or the next working day. Book online and choose a time slot yourself.

Almost always. A new AEG dishwasher costs €400–900. We.repair works with a fixed price: €69 for travel + diagnosis, €110 extra for labour if repair is possible — maximum €179 excluding parts.

Not at the same time — never use them in the same cycle. Vinegar works against limescale, soda is a degreaser. Use them separately. AEG recommends a special machine cleaner as the preferred method.

Error code i44 indicates a drainage problem — a faulty drain pump or kinked hose. Check if the filter is clean and correctly positioned. If i44 remains after cleaning, the drain pump is likely defective.