A D V A N C E D
Pro tips for loading your dishwasher correctly

The Right Way To Load a Dishwasher

Best practices for loading a dishwasher to maximize cleanliness and efficiency.

Loading a dishwasher might seem straightforward, but there's an art to arranging dishes in a way that maximizes both cleanliness and efficiency. Proper loading can prevent the need for re-washing dishes and extend the life of your dishwasher by reducing the risk of breakdowns from clogged filters or damaged racks. Here at Advanced Appliance Repair, we're dedicated to helping you get the most out of your home appliances. Follow these best practices for loading your dishwasher to ensure sparkling results every time.

Best Practices for Loading a Dishwasher

Top Rack Tips
- Glasses and Mugs: Place them upside down so water can't pool on the bottom. Ensure they're not touching to prevent cracking or breaking.

- Plastic Items: Keep all plastic ware on the top rack to avoid melting or warping due to the heating element typically located at the bottom.

- Small Bowls: Angle them downward for better water and detergent access.


Bottom Rack Guidance
- Plates and Cutting Boards: Space them evenly in the slots designated for plates, facing the center where the water spray is strongest.

- Pots and Pans: Face them downward with the dirty side facing the water jets. If possible, pots and pans are best washed by hand to avoid damaging their coating.


Silverware Basket Strategy
- Mixing Utensils: Prevent nesting by alternating forks, spoons, and knives. It's usually best to place forks and spoons with their handles down, but knives should be placed handle up for safety.

- Larger Utensils: Lay them horizontally on the top rack if they're too tall for the silverware basket.


General Loading Tips
- Don't Overload: An overloaded dishwasher can restrict water flow and result in poorly cleaned dishes. It's better to run two cycles than to cram everything into one.

- Scrape, Don't Rinse: Modern dishwashers and detergents are designed to handle food residue. Scrape off large food particles, but there's no need to pre-rinse every dish, saving you water and time.

- Check Sprayer Arms: Ensure that nothing obstructs the rotation of the sprayer arms. If a dish or utensil can block them, reposition the item.

- Use the Right Detergent: Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for detergent type and amount. Too much detergent can leave residue, and too little can result in unclean dishes.


Maintenance Reminder

Keep the dishwasher's filter clean to maintain optimal performance. A clogged filter can result in poorly cleaned dishes and can strain the dishwasher's pump.

Properly loading your dishwasher not only ensures that your dishes come out clean but also helps conserve water and energy by reducing the need for multiple cycles or hand-washing after the dishwasher cycle is complete.

Experiencing issues with your dishwasher or have questions about appliance care? Contact Advanced Appliance Repair. Our team is here to provide expert advice and service to keep your dishwasher and all your home appliances running efficiently. Let us help you solve any appliance concerns you might have.