Dishwashing is probably one of the most hated chores in the history of home-making. Some blame it because of its tediousness and unwritten rules. Some don’t want to touch the grime and the oil. Some just don’t want to get their hands wet. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With these dishwasher hacks, you’ll know how to do the dishes faster and easier.
Don’t Overload the Dishwasher
This is one of the most important dishwasher tips you need to remember. While you want to fill up the dishwasher completely before turning it on so you don’t waste water, you don’t want to overload it.
If you put too many dishes in the dishwasher, the soap and water will not likely reach all of the dishes for a proper wash.
Place Knives Face Down
If you put sharp knives in the dishwasher, place them face down inside the cutlery rack.
This helps prevent any type of accident when you reach into the dishwasher. Place all other cutlery handle side down. For serving spoons and similar cutlery, place it laying down flat on the top shelf.
Skip the Pre-Washing
Of course, you should scrape off any caked-on food left on the dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
But you can skip pre-washing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.
If you find your dishes coming out of the dishwasher less than clean, you can rinse them off quickly with hot water before loading them into the dishwasher. This step will loosen up stuck-on food.
Place Plastic Dishes on Top
Remember to place plastic dishes on the top rack. Why? Because the heater in many dishwashers is located on the bottom. Placing plastic near the heating element could cause it to melt.
Also, remember to make sure plastic containers are facing down so they don’t fill with water.
Put Larger Dishes at the Back
Place larger plates and dishes toward the back of the bottom rack of the dishwasher so they don’t block the water spray.
And remember to place pots and pans open-side down in the bottom section so they don’t fill with water.
Don’t Stack Dishes on Top of Each Other
This might do if it’s dishes in the sink but this is not good when you’re using a dishwasher. If you stack dishes on top of each other in the dishwasher, they may fall over or even break.
Instead, stack dishes one by one at an angle. They’ll be more secure, less likely to break, and get the benefit of a full wash and dry.
Dishwasher Hacks: Stack Starting From the Back
Begin stacking your dishes at the back of the dishwasher. This makes is easier for you to add dishes to the dishwasher until it’s full.
Plus, it is easier to unload a well-organized dishwasher.
Dishwasher Tips: Only Load Dishwasher-Safe Items
Never put dishes inside the dishwasher that aren’t dishwasher safe.
Most dishes are dishwasher safe, but some, such as lead crystal glasses and dishes with non-stick surfaces, should be washed by hand to prevent damaging them or making them less effective
Lean the Dishes Slightly
Leaning your dishes slightly helps the detergent spread evenly. Plus, it helps the water drain properly. Leaning dishes downwards and inwards is the most effective.
This is most helpful in making sure water does not pool on top of the dishes.
Takeaway
Just like what they say in those home shopping shows, “Clean-up is a breeze!” Once you know these dishwasher hacks, you’ll always end up with fulfilled chores and clean plates, ready for when that next party arrives. Try these dishwasher cleaning hacks for yourself and tell us what you think!