what is the proper way to load a dishwasher

The Importance of Proper Dishwasher Loading

Properly loading a dishwasher might seem like a mundane task, but it can have a big impact on the cleanliness of your dishes and the efficiency of your dishwasher. Loading your dishwasher correctly can ensure that your dishes come out sparkling clean while also making sure that your dishwasher is energy efficient and functioning properly. So, what exactly is the proper way to load a dishwasher?

Step 1: Scrape and Rinse

Before you even start loading your dishwasher, it's important to make sure that you scrape off any large chunks of food and rinse your dishes. This will prevent food from clogging your dishwasher's spray arm and ensure that your dishes are properly cleaned. Be sure to also check if any dishes require a pre-wash. Protein stains like egg or milk can be tough to remove, so you may need to pre-wash them before putting them in the dishwasher.

Step 2: Load Silverware and Utensils

Start by loading your silverware and utensils. Make sure that you separate spoons, forks, and knives to ensure that they don't nest together and prevent proper cleaning. When loading utensils, be sure to place them with the handles down to ensure that they don't end up sticking together. If your dishwasher has a utensil tray, use it to prevent utensils from falling through the racks and blocking the spray arm.

Step 3: Load Plates and Bowls

Next, load your plates and bowls. Load them in the bottom rack of the dishwasher, making sure that they're not touching each other and that they're facing towards the center of the dishwasher. Placing them at an angle can also be helpful to allow more water and detergent to reach every corner of the dish. For larger plates and serving dishes, it's important to make sure that they don't block the spray arm. If your dishwasher has adjustable racks, play around with the configurations to find the best fit for your dishes.

Step 4: Load Glasses and Cups

The last step is to load your glasses and cups. Nesting is a common problem with glasses so make sure each glass is separated from the other. It’s best to place them in the top rack by angling them in front of the racks so that they don't flip over and collect dirty water. Stemmed glasses should be placed upside down, and it's a good idea to space out your glasses to prevent them from clinking together.

In Conclusion

Proper loading of your dishwasher can ensure that your dishes come out clean and sparkling, and that your dishwasher functions efficiently. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your dishwasher is loaded properly and that your dishes will come out clean and spotless every time. So, next time you load your dishwasher, remember to scrape off any large chunks of food, load your silverware and utensils first, then your plates and bowls, and finally your glasses and cups. It may seem like a small thing, but paying attention to how you load your dishwasher can make a big difference in the long run.