You know that feeling when you open the dishwasher expecting perfectly clean dishes, but instead, you find some of them still dirty? Yeah, we’ve all been there. The good news? There are some simple fixes to make sure your dishwasher cleans like a pro every time.
Let’s walk through a few easy changes you can make today to get your dishwasher back in top shape. Trust me, these tips are a game changer!
1. Clean the Filter—It’s More Important Than You Think
If your dishwasher’s filter is clogged, it’s basically working with one hand tied behind its back. The filter catches all the food bits and grime that could end up on your dishes, but if it’s dirty, the machine can’t do its job properly.
Pro Tip: Clean your dishwasher filter once a month. Just take it out, rinse it under warm water, and scrub away any food gunk. It’s a small task, but it’ll make a big difference in your dishwasher’s performance.
2. Don’t Overstuff the Dishwasher
We’ve all been guilty of cramming every dish in there, hoping the dishwasher will magically fit everything. But overloading it means water can’t get to all the dishes, leaving you with dirty plates and cups.
Here’s the fix: Give your dishes some space. Arrange them so that water can circulate freely. You might have to run an extra cycle here and there, but trust me, your dishes will be cleaner for it.
3. Pick the Right Detergent
Not all dishwashing detergents are created equal. If you’re using a cheap detergent, it could be leaving behind residue on your dishes, making them look dull or streaky.
What to do: Spend a little more on a quality detergent. Whether you’re using pods, gel, or powder, make sure you’re using one that’s suited for your machine. It’ll pay off in cleaner, shinier dishes.
4. Skip the Over-Rinsing
You’ve probably been told not to rinse your dishes too much before putting them in the dishwasher. But why? Well, if you over-rinse, you’re removing food particles that your detergent needs to grab onto. The key is just scraping off the big bits of food before loading the dishes into the machine.
Quick Tip: Just give your plates a quick scrape and leave the rest to the dishwasher. No need to scrub them—let the machine do its thing!
5. Keep the Spray Arms Clean
The spray arms in your dishwasher are responsible for spraying water and detergent all over your dishes. But if those arms are clogged with food or mineral deposits, they can’t do their job properly.
What to do: Every so often, check the spray arms to make sure they’re not blocked. You can clear out any debris with a toothpick or small brush. It takes just a minute and makes a huge difference in your dishwasher’s cleaning power.
6. Hot Water Works Wonders
Hot water is one of the best ways to break down grease and remove food stains. If your dishwasher’s water isn’t hot enough, it could be leaving your dishes less than clean.
What to do: Run the hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher. Make sure your dishwasher’s hottest cycle is selected, too. The hotter the water, the cleaner your dishes will be!
7. Regular Maintenance Keeps It Running Smoothly
You wouldn’t forget to change your car’s oil, right? Same goes for your dishwasher. Regular maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly.
Here’s what you can do: Use a dishwasher cleaner once a month to remove any buildup inside the machine. It’ll help keep everything from the spray arms to the pump in good working condition, and your dishwasher will last longer too.
Small Fixes, Big Results
It really is the little things that make the biggest difference when it comes to dishwasher performance. Regular filter cleaning, picking the right detergent, and giving the machine some space can all make a huge impact on how clean your dishes come out.
So, next time you do the dishes, take a few extra minutes to care for your dishwasher. You’ll be surprised at how much cleaner your dishes look—and how much easier the whole process becomes!
Give it a try: Clean that filter today, and see how much better your next load comes out. Trust me, it’s worth it!