With so much attention on water and energy conservation, people do not run their dishwashers as often as they did a decade ago. That means the silverware, plates, glasses, and pots stack up through the day, the food remnants tend to dry, and it leaves them in need of a second wash. So, what is the balance between just right and too many dishes? It depends on the size of your dishwasher as well as proper loading, which affects dishwasher repairs and adequate cleaning.
If you see spots, grease, or dirty dishes, you are likely making one critical mistake when loading the dishwasher. If you put too many dishes in odd places, it is going to reduce the optimal cleaning capacity. Most new buyers also don’t pay too much attention to buyer’s guides until after something goes wrong, which enhances the likelihood of dishwasher repair needs. Here are a few vital things you can do if you are unsure of how many dishes fit in a dishwasher.
Bottom Dishwasher Shelving
You will want to put pots, pans, cutting boards, platters, and large serving bowls on the outside of the bottom shelf. Put plates and smaller serving boards on the inside. Make sure the items are placed in a manner that does not block the dishwasher’s spray arm and detergent dispenser so that tableware cleans correctly. You also want to ensure that the side with the food is downward.
Top Dishwasher Shelving
After loading the bottom, you want to then place the glasses, cups, saucers, and soup bowls on the top shelf. Any plastic items should also be placed on the top to minimize the risk of damage from the intense heat of the heating elements. Ensure each piece is secure and avoid overcrowding to reduce the chance of any glass breaking during high-pressure water cycles.
Silverware Tray
When loading, place the utensil handles downward to allow the areas where food is located to receive direct contact from water spraying. This practice will ensure proper cleansing. Place the knives with the blades facing down to ensure your safety and to reduce the chance of silverware being thrown out during the washing and rinsing cycles. You can also mix and match them, too.
Do not place any large and expensively-made knives in the dishwasher as it can damage them. You also want to avoid putting specific heavy metals, wood, non-stick pans, non-safe plastic items, and delicate dishware like fine china into the dishwasher. Not only can chemicals harm their quality, but handwashing them allows you to safeguard things that have irreplaceable value.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to load the dishwasher to get maximum benefits, there are a few more things you can do to elevate the dishwasher experience. First, turn your sink faucet on and run it until the water is hot. The hot water remaining in the water lines will run directly into the dishwasher when you turn it on. You should also use a quality dish detergent for cleanliness.
If you find you have any unidentified dishwasher repair needs, give us a call at 781-953-9600 for an appointment or send us a message on https://www.facebook.com/CSApplianceService/.