Although some types of homes are equipped with dishwashers, you may not have had the chance to try the machine for the first time. If you're not sure how to use a dishwasher, know that the process is surprisingly easy. Carefully insert the cutlery into the machine, then select the appropriate washing mode. Let the machine run until it's finished, then remove the cutlery inside. Don't forget to clean your dishwasher regularly.
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Method 1 of 3: Filling the Dishwasher
Step 1. Rinse your dirty dishes
Putting dirty dishes directly into the dishwasher will keep them dirty after washing. Before placing the dishes in the machine, place them under running tap water to remove food debris, sauces, and other stains.
Dishes don't have to be thoroughly cleaned before putting them in. However, there should be no leftover food left on the plate when it is about to be washed
Step 2. Fill the bottom shelf
Place items such as pots, pans, bowls, and plates on the bottom shelf. Make sure everything is placed facing the water spray inside the machine. Tilt your plates slightly so they can be cleaned thoroughly.
- You can also put spoons and forks on special tableware racks.
- Flat pans and large plates should be placed near the back of the dishwasher.
- Make sure the stainless steel and silver plates are not touching. If they touch each other during the washing process, it will cause a chemical reaction that can damage your dishes.
Step 3. Fill the top shelf
Glasses and cups are placed on the top shelf. Place this drinking utensil upside down in the dishwasher and position it so that the inside can be cleaned too. When washing wine glasses, make sure to tilt them so they don't wobble during washing. Wine glasses break very easily in the dishwasher.
It is highly recommended to wash expensive wine glasses manually
Step 4. Use the right amount of detergent
You don't need a lot of detergent. Too much detergent can cause soap residue to stick to the dishes. Check your detergent packaging for the amount. Do not exceed the recommended dose, even if your plates look very dirty.
Step 5. Be careful when loading plastic cutlery
Cutlery made of plastic is very light and easy to move when washed. Place the equipment on the rack securely so that it does not sway during washing and damage.
Step 6. Don't just put stuff in
Not all tableware can be machine washed. Do not put the following items in the dishwasher:
- Materials such as wood, wrought iron, tin, pure silver, and aluminum.
- Children's cups with special designs
- Nonstick plate
- Expensive cutlery
Method 2 of 3: Operating the Dishwasher
Step 1. If possible, choose the lightest washing option
To save water, choose the lightest washing option in your dishwasher. If the cutlery is not too dirty, this option is sufficient for cleaning. Cutlery that you use regularly for eating, drinking and cooking can be cleaned with the lightest washing option.
Step 2. Choose a more intense washing option for heavily soiled cutlery
Cutlery that is very dirty, such as those from cooking for a long time or baking cakes, should be washed more intensely. Try switching from light to normal washing mode to remove most stains. Cutlery that has crusted dirt can be washed with heavy washing mode, while oil stains can be removed if washed at high temperatures.
Step 3. Let the cutlery dry by itself
Skipping the machine drying process can save energy. Allow your cutlery to dry on its own by placing them on a shelf, unless you want to use them immediately.
Method 3 of 3: Cleaning the Dishwasher
Step 1. Clean the exterior
First of all, clean the exterior of the dishwasher. This will remove stains such as food spills and fingerprints. Plastic dishwashers should be cleaned with a sponge and soapy water. Stainless steel dishwashers should be cleaned with glass cleaner.
If you use glass cleaner, do not spray the cleaning liquid directly into the dishwasher. The liquid splash can damage electrical components. Spray glass cleaner on a paper towel or rag first, then use it to clean up smudges, spills, and fingerprints
Step 2. Clean the filter
Dishwashers are made with a built-in filter that must be cleaned regularly for the machine to run smoothly. This filter can be found at the bottom of the shelf and is very easy to remove. Re-read your dishwasher's manual for proper instructions for removing the filter. Clean the filter in the sink. Use a sponge or place the filter under the tap water to remove any food debris and dust stuck to it. When you're done, put the filter back in its place.
If you find something that has a rough texture like coffee grounds, clean the stain with a small brush
Step 3. Remove and clean the accessories
Remove any removable parts from your dishwasher, such as cutlery holders. Put them in the sink and remove any stains under running tap water.
If the accessories are not too dirty, you can clean them with water only. If the filter is very dirty, you will need a brush or sponge to remove food stains
Step 4. Clean the tube
Before cleaning the drum, use a paper towel to remove food residue, dirt, and dust from the bottom of the machine, then place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher. Make sure the cups used are safe to use in the machine. Run the machine for one wash with the cup of vinegar inside. This method can clean and deodorize the inside of your dishwasher.
Wipe the bottom of the dishwasher's interior with a paper towel after the washing process is complete
Tips
- Place small items on special tableware racks or in other containers. If these items fall under the shelf, they can melt.
- Some cutlery is designed to be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Make sure you check this before washing your cutlery for the first time.
- Always clean the coffee beans from the filter. Coffee beans can make the dishwasher work less than optimally.
- Check the blades on the machine to make sure no straws are caught.