We have a Kenmore stainless interior dishwasher that's about 6 years old. Had been occasionally noticing some white residue on the dishes sometimes after washing. Pulled out the bottom tray and the bottom surface of the dishwasher has a thick white film that is not easily removed. In the openings where the water flows to the pump there is thick caked on white residue that can be chipped away. Overall the dishwasher seems to be cleaning properly. We have excellent water supply, neither hard nor soft. We use Cascade liquid.

Q #1 - What is this white residue & what is the cause.

We ran a rinse cycle with vinegar poured in. Appears a bit cleaner. I poured some water into the bottom & then poured in a lot of vinegar. I'm letting it sit for several hours. Hopefully is will loosen/dissolve some of the residue.

Q #2 - Is there something better than vinegar? What about CLR?