Loading a dishwasher might seem like a no-brainer, but there’s a real art to doing it right. A properly loaded dishwasher not only ensures spotless dishes but also prolongs the life of your kitchenware and keeps your appliance working at peak performance. Over the years, I’ve learned some handy tips and tricks to get the best results—here’s how you can too!
Look at this beautiful dishwasher art !
The Cutlery Rack: Small Details, Big Impact
Modern dishwashers often come with a top cutlery rack, which is a game changer. Unlike the old-fashioned basket where cutlery is bundled together, the cutlery rack allows each piece to be neatly laid out. This ensures better cleaning and drying, with no spots left behind. Yes, it takes a little longer to load each knife, fork, and spoon individually, but the results are worth it.
Pro Tip: Alternate the orientation of your cutlery—place some pieces handle up and others handle down to avoid nesting.
Miele has the sleekest cutlery rack ! It’s gorgeous
Top Rack: For the Delicate and Lightweight
The top rack is designed to safely house lightweight and delicate items, protecting them from the high heat and strong water pressure of the bottom rack. Here’s what goes where:
- Mugs, Cups, and Glasses: Stack these carefully to prevent movement. Most dishwashers have racks designed to hold stemmed glasses securely in place.
- Bowls and Small Dishes: These belong on the top rack, angled slightly downward to allow water to flow off for better cleaning and drying.
- Plastic Items: Place dishwasher-safe plastics like water bottles, baby bottles, and acrylic cups here. The heat from the bottom rack can warp or melt these items.
- Delicate Glassware: Wine glasses, champagne flutes, and even crystal can go here—but always ensure they’re marked dishwasher-safe. Arrange them with enough space to prevent contact, as clinking during the cycle can lead to chips or cracks.
- Insulated Travel Mugs: The top rack is safest for these, as the high temperatures and water pressure of the bottom rack can damage their vacuum seals. Remove lids and gaskets to clean them separately.
- Long Utensils: Lay items like spatulas, ladles, and reusable straws horizontally on the top rack to keep them from blocking the water spray arms.
The top rack is the best for your glasses as it assists in movement of your dishwasher during the cycle
Bottom Rack: The Heavy Lifters
The bottom rack is designed to handle the sturdy, larger items in your kitchen. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Plates and Platters: Arrange these vertically between the tines, making sure to leave space for water to circulate.
- Pots and Pans: Place these upside down to prevent water pooling and ensure thorough cleaning. Make sure they’re dishwasher-safe to avoid discoloration or warping.
- Muffin Trays and Baking Sheets: These can go on the sides of the bottom rack, but don’t overcrowd them—blocked water jets mean a less effective clean.
- Cutting Boards: Large plastic or silicone boards can go here too, as long as they’re secured to prevent tipping.
Additional Tips for a Spotless Clean
- Rinse Lightly, But Don’t Overdo It: Most modern dishwashers are designed to handle food residue, so a quick scrape is all you need. Pre-rinsing wastes water and can make detergent less effective.
- Load Strategically: Avoid overloading. If items are stacked too closely, water and detergent can’t reach all surfaces, leading to a poor clean.
- Watch for Water Jet Blockage: Make sure nothing obstructs the spray arms—this is key for an effective clean.
The Finishing Touch: Steam Dry or Pop Open
If your dishwasher has a steam-dry function, like those in the Smeg range, you’re in luck! This feature ensures your dishes come out sparkling clean and bone-dry. If not, simply pop the door open at the end of the cycle to let the heat naturally dry your dishes.
One of my favourite Smeg dishwashers
Why a Dishwasher is Your Kitchen’s Best Friend
Dishwashers aren’t just about convenience—they’re also more water-efficient than handwashing. A full load uses far less water than scrubbing under a running tap, making it an eco-friendly choice for your household. Plus, modern features like steam-dry functions and customizable racks make dishwashers more versatile than ever.
Packing the dishwasher is such a fun family activity !
So, there you have it—my complete guide to loading a dishwasher for the best results. Whether you’re tackling a small family dinner or the aftermath of a big party, these tips will ensure your dishes are spotless and your dishwasher stays in top-notch condition.
Happy cleaning!
Margaret Hirsch
Shop dishwashers here at Hirsch’s !