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There is some debate about what is the best way to load the dishwasher, with people being split between two different camps. In one camp are the people who have lots of rules for how everything should be loaded from coffee mugs to butter knives. Then there is the other camp that just loads up the appliance in a random fashion. So which team will win the battle when it comes to properly loading up a dishwasher?

Check out the following tips to learn about the best and most effective way to load your dishwasher.

The Basics On How To Load Your Dishwasher

There are several important basic things that you need to consider when you learning how to best load your dishwasher.

 

Each dishwasher brand has its own internal workings and racks, which means each one will have its own unique loading pattern s well. Consult your manual’s owner and instruction to see how they recommend that you load your dishwasher in order to ensure that your dishes are cleaned the most effectively.

Pre-rinse any of your dishes that are going to be sitting inside of the dishwasher for some time before you run it.

 

There are certain items – such as cast iron cookware – that you should never put inside of the dishwasher. Be sure you are familiar with any major dishwasher taboos before hitting the start button on your machine.

Don’t stack your dishes. That will prevent the sprayer from being able to reach everywhere effectively.

Make sure that all plastic items are secure. That will prevent them from getting knocked loose. If they become unsettled and end up too close to the machine’s heating element, they could potentially melt.

Don’t overcrowd your dishwasher, since that can result in your dishes not being washed thoroughly or things getting broken.

How To Load Silverware into your Dishwasher

You might think that it’s simple to load silverware into your dishwasher. All you have to do is drop it in, right? Well, actually there is more to it than that.

Whenever possible, mix knives, forks, and spoons in order to prevent them from becoming nested inside of each other.

 

Load in some of your utensils – such as spoons and forks – with the handles faced down.

Load your knives with the handles faced up to prevent you from cutting yourself.

Keep your stainless steel utensils and silver-plated utensils separate in order to prevent your good silver from getting damaged.

How To Load Big Items

It is very well-known that bigger dishes – such as mixing bowls, dishwasher-safe baking sheets, casserole dishes, and plates – should be placed on the bottom rack of the dishwasher.  However, here are a few things that you may not know about.

 

Be sure to position your biggest times toward the back and sides of the rack. (That allows the water to more evenly circulate.)

 

Load dishes so that the dirty side is facing the sprayer.  

Space large items out to make sure they clean properly.

Do not assume that simply because something is big or metal, that it is dishwasher-safe. There are many no-stick pans and pots that you should wash by hand, so always make sure that you read the care instructions that come with your cookware.

How To Load Smaller Items Into Your Dishwasher

As you probably know, the top rack should be used for smaller items, like glasses, small bowls, and coffee mugs. The following are some extra tips so that you can get the most out of every dishwashing cycle that you run.

 

Place your items in between the rack’s tines -instead of on top of them – in order to prevent water spots from occurring.

 

Load mugs and cups at an angle – the inside part of the cup should face the sprayer – that will help to minimize pooling.

 

When unloading, first unload the bottom rack. That way if any liquid that has puddled in mugs or cups will not splash on your clean dishes.

 

Do not use the dishwasher to clean your wine glasses. Their delicate stems and globes can break very easily.

 

Load any dishwasher-safe plastic food container and other types of aplastic containers on the top rack – and away from the machine’s heating element – in order to prevent any buckling or warping.

 

Now that you have learned about the best way to load up your dishwasher, you may be interested in learning about some more useful tips that can help you keep your important appliance functioning correctly at all times. Learn how to properly clean your dishwasher to ensure that all of your bowls and plates come out looking shiny and nice. See our useful tips on how to clean your dishwasher.

 

All of our housekeeping professionals have extensive experience with all of the most effective techniques and best practices for all aspects of your house. Call your local ThinkMaids today whether you need help with your weekly cleaning or need oe=tiem assistance for a party or other special occasion.