What Is the Proper Way to Load Dishwashers?
For best results when loading the dishwasher, check that the items to be washed are dishwasher safe. Do not overload the machine, but wash a full load when possible, as this saves energy. Leave room for water to reach between each dish; skipping a support in between some pieces to leave adequate space may be necessary. Also ensure that nothing catches in or interferes with any of the dishwasher's seals. Does this Spark an idea?
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Prerinsing
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Generally, do not prerinse dishes. According to the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension, "Prerinsing prior to loading to remove all food soil increases the alkaline concentration of the dishwasher detergent," which can lead to etching problems on glassware. Exceptions to the rule include the presence of acidic foods on dish surfaces. According to the Frigidaire Dishwasher Use and Care Manual, acidic foods may discolor plastic and stainless steel if left in contact over time. Dishes with baked-on food may need to be scrubbed before being placed in the dishwasher as the wash cycle alone may not be sufficient to clean them.
Silverware Basket
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Most silverware may be loaded into the basket handles-first. Load sharp implements and knives with their handles facing up in a standing basket and facing out in a lying basket. Do not allow similar utensils to nest as the soap and water can't reach all surfaces of the utensil for cleaning. To prevent nesting when individual holes have not been provided for utensils, alternate utensil types as you load the basket. See that no utensils have fallen through the bottom of the basket before moving the rack or starting the machine. Protruding utensils can interfere with spray arms in some models.
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Top Rack
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Glasses, mugs and cups should be placed in the top rack, sitting at an angle so they do not collect water. Plastic items and more delicate items should also be placed in the upper rack. Place any utensils that will not fit properly in the silverware basket on the floor of the top rack. Some dishwashers offer an additional fold-down rack for cups. Utensils may also sit on this shelf if they will fit. When used for cups, the cups on the shelf should alternate with items directly beneath them in the upper rack for best results.
Bottom Rack
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Large items -- including pans, baking dishes and oversize bowls -- should be placed in the bottom rack, facing down and angled inward, according to the Frigidaire Dishwasher Use and Care Manual. The manual further suggests that users ensure that large items do not block the function of the detergent dispenser and assure that the dispenser can open freely. Plates and bowls should be lined facing inward in the bottom rack. Most models offer pins to hold the plates in place. Keeping similarly sized and shaped dishes together will allow you to fit more items into the space. Bowls may also be placed in the center of the upper rack.
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