10 Dishwasher Habits You’re Doing Wrong — And How to Fix Them

Your dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in your kitchen, but if you’re not using it correctly, you might be sabotaging its performance. Here are ten common mistakes people make—and how to correct them for cleaner dishes and a longer-lasting machine.

1. Overloading the Dishwasher Cramming too many dishes into one cycle might seem efficient, but it blocks water flow and prevents proper cleaning. Solution: Leave space between items and avoid stacking bowls or plates too tightly.

2. Not Scraping Off Food Residue While modern dishwashers are powerful, large food chunks can clog filters and reduce cleaning efficiency. Solution: Scrape off excess food before loading, but pre-rinsing isn’t necessary for most machines.

3. Using Too Much Detergent More soap doesn’t mean cleaner dishes. Excess detergent can leave residue and damage your dishwasher over time. Solution: Use the recommended amount and opt for high-quality detergent pods or powder.

4. Incorrect Placement of Utensils Placing spoons and forks too close together can prevent thorough cleaning. Solution: Alternate the direction of utensils and avoid nesting them.

5. Blocking the Spray Arms Tall items or improperly placed dishes can obstruct the spray arms. Solution: Ensure nothing blocks the rotation and water flow of the spray arms.

6. Ignoring the Filter A dirty filter can lead to foul smells and poor cleaning. Solution: Clean the filter weekly by removing it and rinsing under warm water.

7. Using the Wrong Cycle Quick cycles may save time but aren’t ideal for heavily soiled dishes. Solution: Use the appropriate cycle based on the load’s dirtiness.

8. Not Cleaning the Dishwasher Itself Dishwashers need regular cleaning to prevent buildup. Solution: Run a cleaning cycle monthly with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner.

9. Placing Plastic Items on the Bottom Rack The bottom rack is too close to the heating element and can warp plastic. Solution: Always place plastic items on the top rack.

10. Skipping Maintenance Checks Neglecting routine checks can shorten your dishwasher’s lifespan. Solution: Inspect hoses, seals, and spray arms every few months for wear and tear.

Bonus Tips for Better Dishwasher Performance To go beyond the basics, consider these extra habits:

• Run hot water in the sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure the initial fill is hot.

• Leave the door slightly ajar after a cycle to allow moisture to escape and prevent mold.

• Use rinse aid regularly to reduce water spots and improve drying.

By correcting these habits, you’ll enjoy cleaner dishes, fewer repairs, and a more efficient kitchen routine.