If your LG dishwasher smells like burning plastic, it’s a problem you should never ignore. While dishwashers naturally develop some odors from food residue, a plastic or electrical burning smell can signal a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
In this guide, you’ll learn the four most common reasons an LG dishwasher gives off a burning plastic smell—and exactly how to fix each one safely.
If your LG dishwasher smells like burning plastic, the most common causes are trapped plastic near the heating element, burning electrical wires, leftover odors, or normal smells from a new unit. Inspect the heating element, remove melted plastic, ventilate the dishwasher, and shut off power immediately if electrical burning is suspected.
Why Does My LG Dishwasher Smell Like Burning Plastic?
A burning plastic smell doesn’t always mean your dishwasher is failing, but it should always be investigated quickly. In some cases, the cause is harmless. In others, continuing to run the dishwasher could cause damage—or even create a fire risk.
Below are the most common causes and solutions.
New LG Dishwasher Smell (Normal)
What’s happening
It’s normal for a brand-new LG dishwasher to emit unusual odors during its first few uses.
Why it smells like plastic
The smell usually comes from:
- New internal insulation heating up
- Motors warming during early cycles
- Manufacturing residues burning off
Despite the smell, no plastic is actually burning.
How to fix it
- Run the dishwasher normally
- Allow 10–20 wash cycles for the smell to fade
- Open the door after each cycle to improve ventilation
✅ This smell should disappear on its own.
Related: 5 LG Dishwasher Problems You Need To Know
Plastic or Rubber Items Melted Near the Heating Element
What’s happening
Small plastic or rubber items can fall through the racks and land near the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher.
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Why it smells like burning plastic
When plastic touches or rests near the heating element, it can melt or burn, producing a strong plastic odor.
How to fix it
- Turn off power to the dishwasher (unplug or turn off at breaker)
- Remove the lower and upper racks
- Inspect the heating element carefully
- Remove any melted plastic or rubber
- Clean residue only after the element has cooled completely
🔴 Never scrape the heating element while it’s hot.
Burning Electrical Wires (Serious Issue)
What’s happening
Your LG dishwasher contains multiple electrical components connected by wiring harnesses. Electrical faults can cause wires to overheat.
Why it smells like burning plastic
Burning or overheating wires melt their insulation, producing a strong plastic or electrical burning smell.
How to fix it
⚠️ Shut off power immediately at the breaker.
- Do not continue using the dishwasher
- Remove panels only if you’re trained
- A qualified appliance technician should inspect and repair wiring damage
🚨 This is not a DIY repair and can be dangerous if ignored.
Read: How To Fix LE Error Code On LG Dishwasher?
Lingering Burnt Plastic Odors
What’s happening
Even after fixing the source, burning smells can linger inside the dishwasher.
Why odors stick around
- Poor ventilation inside the tub
- Narrow gaps that trap odors
- Smells absorbed into seals and insulation
How to remove lingering odors
- Leave the door open between cycles
- Clean door seals and interior gaps
- Run an empty cycle with White Vinegar in a bowl on the top rack
- Use a commercial dishwasher deodorizer. Affresh is my favorite brand.
- Clean the dishwasher filter, as pictured below.
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Related: How To Reset CL Error Code On LG Dishwasher?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove bad odors from my LG dishwasher?
Ventilate the dishwasher regularly, clean the filter, and remove food debris. Vinegar cycles help neutralize stubborn smells.
How often should I clean my LG dishwasher filter?
Every 6 months, or more often if you notice odors or poor cleaning performance.
Can plastic go in the dishwasher?
Yes—only dishwasher-safe plastics. Non-approved plastic can melt or warp.
Should plastic go on the top or bottom rack?
Always place plastic items on the top rack, far away from the heating element.
How do I know if plastic is dishwasher safe?
Look for a dishwasher-safe symbol, usually a square with plates or utensils inside.
