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Quick answer
First distinguish a temporary new-product or plastic smell from a persistent food, sewage, or burning odor. Clean the filter, check that the tub drains and the drain hose is installed correctly, and ventilate the area. Stop using the dishwasher for a persistent burning or electrical smell.
Work through in order
Diagnostic checks
Use only checks that match the exact appliance or system and its official guide.
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Check 1
Stop the cycle and identify whether the odor is food/sewage-like, plastic/new-product, or burnt/electrical.
Expected result: the smell is temporary new-product odor or a sharp persistent odor
Next step: Ventilate for a mild early-use odor; stop using the dishwasher for burning or electrical odor.
Why this matters
Why: LG says some early odors can fade with use, while a persistent burnt smell on an older product needs inspection.
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Check 2
After the tub has cooled, remove the lower rack and clean and reseat the filter as directed.
Expected result: the filter contains residue or is clean
Next step: Do not touch a hot tub; use the model manual for filter removal and cleaning.
Why this matters
Why: Residue can retain food odor and can also interfere with drainage; a clean filter moves the check to the drain path.
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Check 3
Check for standing water above the filter and inspect the accessible drain hose for kinks or a low installation.
Expected result: water remains above the filter or the hose is kinked/low
Next step: Straighten an accessible kink only after closing the shut-off valve; request service for persistent pooling or installation changes.
Why this matters
Why: Poor drainage can leave odor-producing water and allow sewer gas or backflow conditions.
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Check 4
Run the normal cleaning/deodorizing procedure permitted by the model manual, with ventilation, after the mechanical checks are clear.
Expected result: the smell clears or returns on the next cycle
Next step: Stop and request service for recurring burning odor, smoke, or a code.
Why this matters
Why: A cleared smell supports residue or temporary odor; recurrence points to drainage, heater, wiring, or another fault.
Use your observations
Decision map
Find the observation that best matches what you see, then follow the next safe action.
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PATH 01Next step
What you see
The dishwasher is new and the smell is mild plastic or rubber without smoke
Do this next
Ventilate and monitor while following normal care.
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PATH 02Next step
What you see
The smell is burnt, electrical, or persists on an older unit
Do this next
Stop use and request service.
Helpful context
Understand the symptom
The age and location of the smell matter
A smell from the first uses can be different from an odor that appears after every cycle. Note whether it is strongest at the door, filter, drain, or during drying, and do not mask a burning smell with cleaner.
Only after diagnosis
Potential parts
- dishwasher filter
Only consider replacing a filter if it is damaged or cannot be cleaned and reseated.
Confirm the complete model before ordering; do not replace heater or wiring parts yourself.
When checks do not resolve it
Need a professional?
Stop immediately for smoke, a sharp burning or electrical smell, heat damage, water near electrical parts, or an odor that persists after safe filter and drain checks. Request qualified service.
Common questions
FAQ
Is a plastic smell from a new LG dishwasher normal?
LG says some new products emit temporary odors from heated materials. Ventilate and monitor, but do not treat smoke or a persistent burnt smell as normal.
Why does a dishwasher smell like sewage?
Check for standing water, a clogged filter, and the drain-hose installation. If water remains above the filter or the smell persists, request service.
Read the exact guide
Official sources
- [LG Dishwasher] Guide to Error CodesLG USA Support · LG dishwasher filter, drain, hose, and service checks
- [LG Dios dishwasher] The dishwater that I began to use recently smells like: something is burning, a new product fresh from the factory, or a plastic.LG USA Support · LG dishwasher early-use and persistent burnt odors
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