How to load your dishwasher the right way

Even the best dishwashers won’t deliver results if they are not loaded the right way. Overfilling your dishwasher, placing utensils and plates in the wrong spot or even using the incorrect amount of dishwashing powder can all contribute to a less than sparkling result. For the best cleaning results, follow our tips to load your dishwasher the right way.

Should you pre-rinse?

“There’s absolutely no need to pre-rinse” says Ashley Iredale from consumer advocacy group Choice. Scrape off food scraps before placing your plates, bowls and utensils in the dishwasher. Not only will you get a better result, you will save energy and avoid wasting water.

If you don’t plan on running your dishwasher right away, you can run a pre-wash or rinse only cycle. The cycle uses very little water and power and helps prevent food residue from sticking to your dishes.

Pick the right dishwasher detergent

A good quality detergent will greatly improve cleaning performance. Our top pick is Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Dishwasher Powder. It contains enzymes for fast elimination of food grime and tough stains. 100% soluble and phosphate free means it is better for the environment too!

Handy tips for loading your dishwasher

Keep your utensils together

For the best results, place forks and spoons handle-first, with the prongs and spoons facing upwards. To avoid any cuts or accidents, sharp knives should be placed downwards in the cutlery basket. Mix the utensils up in each section of the basket to avoid spoons and forks nesting.

Place lighter items on the top basket

• Glasses, cups, wine glasses and small bowls should be placed on the top rack.  Load on an angle so that water can easily drain out.
• Dishwasher-safe plastics should go on the top rack as excessive heat can warp plastics.
• Large spatulas and long cooking utensils should lay flat on the top rack. Make sure they cannot slip through the rack. This could block the spray arms.

Place heavy items on the bottom

• Place heavy items such as pots, pans, large bowls and dinner plates on the bottom rack.
• Scrape leftover food into the rubbish bin first, but do not pre-rinse your plates. Place dishes with their dirty sides facing the centre of the dishwasher. Don’t stack dishes too close together.
• If your dishwasher has removable plate racks, adjust or remove to fit your pots and pans as needed.
• Larger items such as platters, cutting boards should be placed towards the side and back and angled down to ensure better cleaning and drainage.
• Dishes and other large items should not obstruct rotating arms.

Dishwashing do’s and don’ts

Do:

• Use a quality dishwasher detergent (and the recommended amount!). Too much can leave a residue, too little can result in dirty dishes
• Use rinse aid with every wash. Not only will it help to remove excess water and prevent mineral build up, it will prevent stubborn water spots
• Make sure your unit is fully loaded (but not overcrowded) when you run it
• Check that your spray arms can spin easily are not obstructed by larger dishes
• Put the dirtiest and heaviest items on the bottom rack
• Give your dishwasher a thorough, monthly deep wash with a vinegar cycle. Wipe the interior of your dishwasher and the door seal with warm soapy water and a sponge. Add 2 cups white vinegar to your dishwasher. Finally run a full hot water cycle.
• Select the right cycle for your dishes and other items

Don’t

• Place sharp knives in the dishwasher, as this will dull the blades
• Put wooden items (eg cutting boards) in the dishwasher – this can cause them to warp or crack
• Put non-dishwasher safe items in your dishwasher. This includes crystal, fine china, cast iron, items with fine metals and finishes, aluminum, flatware with bone or wood, sharp knives and non-stick pans
• Overload the dishwasher. Poorly stacked dishes and utensils that restrict the rotating motion of the spray arms can result in dirty dishes
• Unload the top rack first. Unload your bottom rack first so that when you are ready to unload the top rack, left over water won’t splash onto your clean dishes below

If you find your dishwasher is still not cleaning properly, check out our simple DIY fixes.

Solve common dishwasher problems easily (no repair person required!). Read our handy guide.

Need dishwasher spare parts? We’ve got you covered! We ensure our most popular spare parts are always in stock – including hoses, cutlery baskets, rollers and spray arms. Trust the experts and find the spare part you need at Statewide Appliance Spares, with fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed.