Dishwasher Tips: Operating a Dishwasher

Here are some general maintenance tips, some suggestions for how to load a dishwasher, and important points about running a dishwasher!

GENERAL

Did you know that washing dishes by hand is less efficient and uses more water than a dishwasher? So whenever possible, it is better to use a dishwasher, unless you have just a couple of items to wash.
Newer dishwashers do a great job of removing residual food from dishes, so just scrape them rather than pre-rinsing. However, if the dishes are going to be sitting in the machine all day, then it’s better to pre-rinse the dishes.
To clean a dishwasher and keep it smelling fresh, run an empty load with a cup of vinegar in the bottom.
Check the drain on the dishwasher “floor” periodically to make sure food isn’t clogging it up.

LOADING A DISHWASHER

Secure all plastics. If you don't, blasts of water may cause these pieces to flip over and fill with water, or worse, fall onto an exposed heating element (if the model has one) and melt.
Never stack items. The water spray won't be able to reach (or clean) the dish that's on top. REMEMBER: If the water can't reach an item, it won't get clean.
Always separate your stainless steel and silver (or silver-plated) flatware. If the two types touch in the wash, a reaction may occur and the silver could pit.
Bowls and plates go on the bottom rack of the dishwasher with their dirty side facing where the water spray is the strongest.
Pots, pans, and casseroles should angle down for the best cleaning results.
Flat pans and platters will also go on the bottom, tucked along the sides and back of the rack. Never place them in front, by the door — they could block the dispenser from opening and keep the detergent from reaching the dishes.
When loading spoons, place some handles up and some down so that the spoons don’t “nest” together. This ensures that all surfaces of the spoons get washed.
For forks, load them with the tines up. And, for safety, knives should be placed with the blade down. Be careful when unloading a dishwasher—grab all utensils by the handles so they stay clean.
Glasses and cups go on the top rack. Place them between the tines — never on top. The tip of the prong can leave a water spot and glasses wedged over two tines can crack.

RUNNING A DISHWASHER

Before starting a dishwasher (especially in cold weather), run water in the sink until it is hot. This ensures that the dishwasher starts running with hot water, not cold.
What about detergent? Powders, liquids and packets can all clean well—as long as the detergent is fresh. Store it in a cool, dry spot (not under the sink, where the detergent might clump up).
If you use dishwasher detergent pods, be sure to put them in the dispenser. Don't just toss them on the bottom of the machine because they will dissolve in the pre-wash and be washed away before the main cycle begins.