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How to load a dishwasher

To get the best out of your dishwasher, it’s important to know how to load it correctly, whether you have a freestanding, integrated dishwasher, slimline or full size dishwasher model. Not only can it help it run more efficiently by using less water and energy, but you can prevent damage caused by overfilling. Plus, it’ll enable you to use every inch of space without overcrowding for a more thorough clean.

5 steps on loading a dishwasher

  1. The most effective way to load is to first place large items like pots and pans on the bottom rack faced down, at an angle with the dirtiest parts facing the spray arms.
    a. Did you know? Placing items at an angle assists with drying and draining.
  2. Plates, bowls, and other dinnerware should also go on the bottom, with heavier items towards the back and sides and spaces in between to allow water to pass through and reach all surfaces.
  3. Chopping boards and baking sheets should be placed towards the back and sides on the bottom of the dishwasher so that water and detergent can flow easily around the rest of the dishwasher.
  4. The top rack is designed for dishwasher-safe plastics, cups, glasses, and mugs, as the spray is gentler. They should be placed upside down at a slight angle to prevent water from collecting.
    a. Did you know? Your dishwasher’s hottest part is at the bottom, where the heating element is positioned, and placing plastics here could warp them.
  5. Place utensils in the cutlery basket with the handles down and mix them so they don’t nest within each other for a thorough clean. As a safety measure, load knives blade-down to prevent you from cutting yourself when unloading. If your dishwasher doesn’t have a cutlery basket, lay cutlery between the rows on the top rack with cups, glasses, and mugs. Many top brands like Bosch dishwashers, Hotpoint, AEG, and Miele dishwashers feature a third-level loading for cutlery and larger kitchen utensils (Cutlery Tray). Also, some Hoover dishwashers feature a handy ladle holder designed to hold bread knives, ladles, and other long items.
loading a dishwasher
loaded dishwasher

Is there a wrong way to load a dishwasher?

DYes, overcrowding, overfilling, placing cups, glasses and mugs upright, positioning cutlery in order with the handles up, half-loads and placing items over the tines* are all wrong ways of loading your dishwasher.

3 things to avoid when loading dishwasher

  1. Avoid overcrowding or overfilling, as this can block spray arms and lead to a less effective clean. Additionally, you could also cause damage to your dishes. Check that there are no obstructions to the spray arms before starting a cycle.
  2. A full load is more efficient than a half load. Not only does this save water, but it ensures that your dishwasher is running to its total working capacity.
  3. Don’t place items over the tines (* the protrusions on the top and bottom racks that hold and separate items). For proper loading, secure items like cups, glasses and mugs between them, not over them, as they could knock into one another and cause cracks, chips, or even topple over, while your dishwasher is in operation. Tines vary in each model and may feature folding, expanding, or adjustable-height versions.

Further advice:

It’s best to scrape food off dishes before putting them in the dishwasher rather than rinsing them. Rinsing wastes water and can increase your energy bills. Your dishwasher detergent relies on food particles to clean effectively; without them, dishes wear down, chip or crack, or you could even be left with excessive residue.

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