Ever stared at the “Steam Clean” option on your GE dishwasher and wondered, Is this really doing anything, or is it just a fancy button? You’re not alone! Many people debate whether steam cleaning is actually effective or just marketing fluff. Let’s dive in and see if it’s worth your time (and water bill).
What Is GE Dishwasher Steam Cleaning?
First, let’s break it down. Steam cleaning in a GE dishwasher is an extra cycle that uses high-temperature steam to loosen stuck-on food and grime before the main wash. Instead of relying solely on detergent and water pressure, the heat from the steam helps soften debris, making it easier to wash away.
Think of it like pre-soaking your dishes—except your dishwasher does it for you with steam instead of water. Sounds pretty cool, right?
Does Steam Cleaning Actually Work?
Short answer? Yes—but it depends on what you’re cleaning.
Steam cleaning is great for:
- Loosening baked-on food before the wash cycle
- Cutting through grease more effectively
- Reducing water spots on glassware
- Helping sanitize dishes by exposing them to high heat
However, if your dishes are just lightly soiled, the steam cycle may not be necessary. It’s most effective when dealing with tough messes—think dried pasta sauce, melted cheese, or eggs that have been sitting for hours.
Is It Worth Using?
Here’s when steam cleaning is worth it:
✔️ If you often deal with tough, dried-on food
✔️ If you want a more thorough, hygienic clean
✔️ If you hate pre-rinsing and want the dishwasher to do the hard work
Here’s when you can skip it:
❌ If your dishes are already rinsed and lightly soiled
❌ If you’re in a rush (steam cycles can add extra time)
❌ If you want to conserve energy (steam cleaning uses additional heat)
Final Verdict: Should You Use GE Dishwasher Steam Cleaning?
If you frequently deal with stuck-on food and want a hassle-free way to get cleaner dishes, the steam clean feature is definitely worth trying. But if your dishes aren’t that dirty to begin with, you probably won’t notice a huge difference.
So, next time you’re loading up your dishwasher, ask yourself: Do I want to let steam do the dirty work? If the answer is yes—go ahead and hit that button!