How to Load a Dishwasher

Placing dinnerware randomly in the washer, loading the dishwasher to the brim under the presumption that the appliance will be able to clean it, these are just a few of the common mistakes that people make while using a dishwasher. Most of us, despite owning dishwashers, remain pretty unaware of the proper way of loading a dishwasher. If you have spent a lot of money on your kitchenware, then it is important that you also learn how to use a dishwasher properly, so that you ruin neither your kitchen appliance nor your dishes.

Loading a Dishwasher Properly

You will need to follow the step-by-step instructions given here when loading a dishwasher. These directions will ensure that your dishes are cleaned properly and no harm is caused to the dishwasher that you are using.

• First and foremost, it is important that before you load the dishes in the dishwasher, you remove any large food particle that is still on the dish. Not doing this can cause blockage during the wash cycle. There are smaller particles that sometimes remain stuck to utensils. You may need to scrape these off too.
• It is a good idea to use warm water that has a little soap dissolved in it to scrape off the food particles. Once you have done this, pre-rinse the utensils. With some dishwashers this may not be necessary, but it is always a good idea to follow this step.
• The next step involves loading the dishes into the dishwasher. While loading the dishes, always start with the bottom rack, move on to the silverware rack, and finally the top rack.
• While loading the bottom rack, start by first racking the baking dishes towards the outside. Place them according to their size, starting from the tallest dish. This ensures that the sprayer arm of the dishwasher reaches all the dishes.
• Next, load the pots and pans in the bottom rack and place them straight down. After that, load the plates and saucers in a way that they face inwards so that they are washed properly.
• After the bottom rack, loading the silverware basket is the next step. Observing the placement of dishwasher parts will tell you that the silverware rack is actually located in the bottom rack. Avoid grouping similar silverware together as that may cause nestling which will make it difficult for the dishwasher to wash the cutlery properly.
• Once you have finished loading the bottom rack, push it back into the dishwasher, and then start loading the top rack. Place the glasses on the prongs which prevents them from moving around. Bowls should be placed in the center of the top rack. If you are washing dishes made of plastic, then place them in such a manner that they face downwards. Placing dishes in a wrong manner may require you to learn how to fix a dishwasher.
• The next step is to add the dishwasher detergent and the rinsing agent. If you own a dishwasher that has a rinsing agent dispenser, then you will need to fill the same with the agent. Alternatively, in a dishwasher without a dispenser, you can buy rinse agent tabs with a basket that you can place in the dishwasher's top rack.
• With the dishwasher detergent, you will have to use the same according to the instructions given by the detergent manufacturer. If you use one of the pre-measured pouches available in the market, you will need to follow instructions to find out which of the dishwasher cups is the best to place the pouch.
• Depending on the number of dishes that you have loaded your dishwasher with, you will need to choose the wash cycle. A normal cycle is best for a light load, but if you have many pans, then choose a heavy cycle.
• The last step after the wash cycle is over, would be to remove the dishes. Always start with the bottom rack and then move on to the top rack. This will ensure that you do not spill water on dishes that are already dry.

Remember never to place breakable utensils with cutlery made of metal as it may cause them to break. It is also important that you do not double up dishes as this hinders the process of cleaning. Another very important thing is that you use a proper dishwasher cleaner for cleaning a dishwasher, after the wash cycle is over. Now you should have no problem washing your dishes and ensuring that you have no issues to troubleshoot due to improper loading.