What Can Be Done to the Dishwasher so It Cleans Better?
While a dishwasher is normally fairly durable, reliable and maintenance-free, problems can affect how well the appliance cleans and rinses. When you notice dirty dishes, take steps to help this hardworking household helper clean as it should. Does this Spark an idea?
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Select the Right Cycle
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If dishes still have food bits on them after the wash cycle finishes, the cycle may not be long enough to adequately clean them. Don't select a short cycle to save water if the larger, more heavily soiled load of dishes dictates a longer cycle. Use a fast-wash cycle only to clean lightly soiled loads of dishes, utensils and glasses.
Use the Correct Temperatures
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Raise the water temperature if it's set too low to clean properly. Not only should the water be hot enough to activate the detergent to clean, it should also sanitize the dishes. Set the minimum water temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit, rising to 140 degrees to remove food soil and reaching 155 degrees so dishes are properly sterilized. Follow your owner's manual to adjust the temperature directly on your dishwasher, if your dishwasher itself has a heating element. If it doesn't, place a thermometer into a glass and run hot water directly from your kitchen sink into the glass to gauge the water temperature. You can raise the hot water temperature on your hot water heater.
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Add the Right Detergent
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When you purchase a new dishwasher, the owner's manual normally lists the detergent recommended by the appliance manufacturer. You'll also need to use the correct amount. Overfill the dishwasher compartment with detergent and residue may linger on the dishes after washing. Don't use old, crystal detergent that has grown lumpy, or the detergent won't fully dissolve in the dishwasher. Replace a box of lumpy detergent if it's become moisture-swollen.
Scrape and Load Dishes Properly
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Before placing dirty dishes inside the dishwasher, scrape off large or particularly sticky food residue to help lighten the load on the appliance. Load the various items inside the dishwasher so enough water can reach each one to properly clean them all. For example, lay long utensils such as ladles and spatulas on the top rack. Flip glasses and cups upside down and place in the top rack. Place lightweight plastics in top rack clips so they don't fall down. Place bowls on the top or bottom rack. Arrange plates on the bottom rack so each one faces the same direction, ideally toward the spray arm in the center of the appliance. Mix forks, spoons and knives together in the utensil compartments. Keep knife blades down while alternating spoons--some up and some down.
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References
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