Ever stood in front of your Kenmore dishwasher, staring at all those buttons, wondering, “Which cycle should I use?” You’re not alone! With so many options—Normal, Heavy, Quick Wash, and more—it can feel like you’re trying to crack a secret code. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s break it down so you can get the best clean every time.
1. Normal Cycle – The Everyday Hero
Best for: Regular loads of lightly to moderately soiled dishes
If you’re washing your everyday dishes—plates, cups, utensils, and a few pots—this is your go-to. It uses a standard amount of water and energy, balancing efficiency with effectiveness. Perfect for when you don’t need anything too fancy, but still want a solid clean.
When to use it: Most of the time! It’s designed for routine dishwashing needs.
2. Heavy Cycle – The Grease Buster
Best for: Heavily soiled dishes, greasy pots and pans
If you just cooked up a feast and your cookware looks like a war zone, the Heavy cycle is your best friend. It uses hotter water and a longer wash time to cut through stuck-on food and grease.
When to use it: After cooking a big meal, baking, or dealing with dishes that sat in the sink overnight.
Pro Tip: If your Kenmore model has a High Temp Wash option, use it with the Heavy cycle for even better results!
3. Quick Wash – The Speedy Saver
Best for: Lightly soiled dishes that need a fast clean
In a hurry? Quick Wash gets the job done in a fraction of the time. It uses less water and energy but still manages to clean lightly used plates and glasses.
When to use it: Great for when you need clean dishes ASAP—like before guests arrive!
4. Smart Wash (If Your Kenmore Has It) – The AI Genius
Best for: Dishes with unknown soil levels
Some Kenmore dishwashers come with a Smart Wash cycle that automatically adjusts time, water, and energy usage based on how dirty your dishes are.
When to use it: If you’re not sure which cycle to pick, let your dishwasher do the thinking for you.
5. China/Delicate Cycle – The Gentle Touch
Best for: Glassware, fine china, and fragile items
This cycle uses lower water pressure and gentler washing to protect delicate dishes from damage. No more worrying about cracking your favorite wine glasses!
When to use it: For anything fragile, like crystal, fine china, or lightly soiled glassware.
6. Rinse Only – The Odor Fighter
Best for: Preventing food from sticking and odors from building up
Not ready to run a full cycle but don’t want dishes sitting with leftover food? Rinse Only is your solution. It sprays off food particles to prevent bad smells and stuck-on messes.
When to use it: If you’re waiting to fill up the dishwasher before running a full load.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right cycle for your Kenmore dishwasher can make a huge difference in cleaning performance, water usage, and energy efficiency. If you’re unsure, stick with Normal for everyday cleaning, Heavy for tougher messes, and Quick Wash when you’re in a hurry.
Now it’s your turn: Which cycle do you use the most? Let me know in the comments!