Everything you need to know about dishwasher safety, cleaning & maintenance

Is your dishwasher not running as efficiently as it used to, leaving you with spotty dishes and persistent odors? You’re not alone, and the good news is you can solve these issues with some simple, at-home maintenance. Get ready to embark on a journey to keep your dishwasher in top shape—with helpful tips and a must-watch how-to video just below!

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Nearly every household relies on the convenience and efficiency of dishwashers to clean and sanitize dishes. Like any other appliance, dishwashers need to be used correctly, cleaned and maintained to get the most out of their lifespan.

Let’s unpack some best practices for using your dishwasher such as loading techniques, general usage tips and routine maintenance so you can keep it running well for years to come.

If you need any replacement parts for your dishwasher, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch: How To Clean A Dishwasher

How to use a dishwasher safely

1. Load dishes correctly

• Place knives and other sharp items upside-down so the blades face downward and inward rather than up. This reduces the chance of injury while unloading a clean utensil basket.
• Check the labels on dishes, glassware and plastic materials to make sure they can be washed in the dishwasher. Only use dishwasher-safe dishware, since some materials may shatter or melt due to the high heat used during cleaning.
• Pay attention to the placement of dishwasher-safe items and follow all cleaning instructions from the dishware manufacturer. If an item is labeled as “top rack only,” or “top rack safe,” don’t put it on the bottom rack since it could become damaged.
• Secure small items like dishwasher-safe lids and caps inside mesh bags so they don’t get dislodged by the forceful spray of water jets throughout the cycle.

Read more: Best Loading Techniques For Your Dishwasher

2. Use the right detergent

• Follow all dishwasher manufacturer instructions about selecting a detergent for your machine. Avoid using specific types of detergent that the manufacturer warns against.
• Store detergent containers on high shelves so they can’t be reached by kids and pets. Accidental ingestion of dishwasher detergent can cause serious stomach upset, injury or death.
• Follow all dishwasher detergent instructions to make sure your dishwasher cycles run correctly.
• Use the correct amount of detergent for each load size and model. Using too little detergent won’t get your dishes clean enough, but using too much can cause soapy suds to spill out and make a mess on your floor. Excessive foam can also clog the water filtration system, which can reduce water pressure and leave behind residue that can cause mildew.

Watch: 6 Ways To Keep Your Dishwasher In Great Shape

3. Keep safety first post-cycle

• Always give the dishwasher around 10-15 minutes to cool down time after a hot cycle before unloading the dishes. Grabbing dishes too soon could cause burns from lingering steam or heat.
• Close and lock the dishwasher door after you’ve unloaded the machine after a cycle to prevent any accidents that could cause personal injuries or damage.

Read more: Surprising Things That Can & Can’t Go in the Dishwasher

Dishwasher cleaning & maintenance tips

Besides keeping an eye out for potential issues, regular maintenance helps your dishwasher stay dependable for years.

• Check the filter for any blockages or debris.
• Clean the interior, including the tub, racks, and spray arms. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove any mineral buildup or odors.
• Run a sanitizing or cleaning cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner.
• Check the soap dispenser for any blockages or debris and clean as needed.
• Check the door seal (gasket) for any signs of wear or damage. Replace it if necessary.
• Inspect the drain hose for any signs of damage or blockages. Clean or replace it if needed.
• Check the water supply lines for any signs of damage or leaks. Make sure the connections are tight and free from corrosion.

Read more: How to prevent appliance fire hazards

FAQs

Q: What kinds of repairs can I make to my dishwasher?

A: You can repair a dishwasher yourself in many cases if it’s experiencing common issues with starting, filling dispensing, etc. Cleaning filters, unclogging spray arms, replacing worn-out seals, or troubleshooting basic operational problems are all relatively easy DIY fixes.

Q: How can I extend the life of my dishwasher after a repair?

A: Regularly clean the filter, spray arms, and interior to prevent clogs and buildup. Use the correct amount of detergent and rinse aid and avoid overloading the machine. You should also periodically check and replace worn door seals to prevent leaks. If you have hard water, de-scale your dishwasher every few months to prevent mineral buildup.

Q: How do I prevent bad odors in my dishwasher?

A: Regularly clean the filter and run a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar through a cycle at least once a month to help eliminate odors and buildup.

Q: How do I clean the filters in my dishwasher?

A: Most dishwasher filters are located at the bottom of the machine. Remove them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, rinse them under running water, and, if necessary, gently scrub them with a soft brush before replacing them.

Q: What should I do if my dishes are coming out spotty or with a film?

A: This problem could be due to hard water, too much or too little detergent, or a problem with the rinse aid dispenser. Consider adjusting your detergent amount, using a rinse aid, or installing a water softener.

Q: Why are my dishes excessively wet after a cycle?

A: If your dishwasher is leaving your dishes soaking wet, make sure you’re using enough rinse aid, which helps evaporate water and prevents spots. Also check that your dishes are loaded into the machine correctly to allow for proper air circulation and water drainage. You might also try turning off the energy-saving dry setting if it’s on, since it may not dry as effectively as a regular heated cycle.

Q: Do I need to use a rinse aid?

A: It’s generally recommended to use rinse aid in your dishwasher, especially if you notice water spots or if your dishes aren’t drying properly. Rinse aid improves the drying process by reducing water’s surface tension, which allows it to spread evenly and evaporate faster. This helps your dishes get clearer and prevents water spots. It also helps minimize limescale buildup.

More information

Thanks for reading! If you have any appliance repair needs or projects, you can find other resources and our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in 1-2 business days.

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