Since the invention of the dishwasher, most of us have bid our last farewell to the tedious and endless chore of scrubbing and drying each utensil manually.
While the dishwasher surely opened the door to a world of convenience, and we are grateful for it, let's not forget the unsung hero, the dishwasher detergent. They effectively remove grease and grime, food residues, and stains but aren’t appreciated more often.
Whether you are new to this appliance or are using liquid dishwasher detergent for the first time, you may have questions about how to use this dishwasher detergent the right way.
Through this article, we strive to enrich your understanding of liquid dishwasher detergent, enabling you to achieve flawless dishwashing effortlessly.
How to use a dishwasher with liquid detergent
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of using a dishwasher with liquid detergent.
Step 1: Understanding the dishwasher
Before diving into how to use liquid dishwasher detergent, it's essential to understand your dishwasher's basic components and functionality.
Start by reading the manufacturer’s manual that came with your dishwasher. It will provide valuable information about your specific model, including its unique features, care instructions, and troubleshooting tips.
Next, take a look inside your dishwasher to identify its key components. Typically, a dishwasher comprises a detergent dispenser, spray arms, racks for dishes, a heating element, and various sensors.
Lastly, take note of the dishwasher program and cycle settings, as they can enhance the cleaning process or save energy and water.
Understanding your dishwasher's different parts and settings will make you feel confident and informed when using it. This knowledge will help you optimize its performance and always ensure spotless dishes.
Step 2: Loading the dishwasher
Knowing how to load your dishwasher properly is crucial to maximizing your dishwasher’s capacity and minimizing the risk of unsatisfactory cleaning:
- Scrape off large food particles from dishes to prevent drain clogs and ensure thorough cleaning.
- Separate your dishes into categories such as plates, bowls, cups, and utensils to facilitate efficient loading and unloading.
- Arrange them in a manner that allows water and detergent to reach all surfaces for thorough cleaning.
- Ensure the dirty side faces inward towards the spray arms, especially for dishes with food residue.
- Larger items like pots and pans should be loaded at the bottom rack and spaced properly for effective water circulation. Utilize adjustable tines and dividers to accommodate dishes of various sizes while preventing overcrowding.
- Place cutlery in designated baskets, alternating handles for better cleaning. Delicate items should be hand-washed to avoid damage.
- Leave adequate space between dishes for proper water circulation, optimizing cleaning performance and minimizing the risk of damage.
These loading guidelines maximize dishwasher capacity and ensure optimal cleaning results.
Step 3: Adding liquid dishwasher detergent
Follow these steps to add liquid detergent to your dishwasher properly:
- Start by ensuring your dishwasher detergent dispenser is clean and free from residue.
- Read the dishwasher manufacturer’s instructions to determine the appropriate amount of Finish All‐in‐1 Liquid Gel needed. The amount may vary depending on the brand, dishwasher model, and level of soiling on your dishes.
- Carefully measure the liquid detergent accurately and pour it into the dispenser compartment.
- Consider adding Finish Rinse Aid if your dishwasher has a rinse aid dispenser to speed up the drying process and prevent water spots on glasses and dishes.
- After adding the liquid detergent and any optional rinse aid, firmly close the dispenser. Ensure it latches securely to prevent detergent from spilling or leaking during the wash cycle.
- Avoid overfilling the dispenser with the detergent to prevent excessive suds and any potential damage to the dishwasher.
- Lastly, check for any detergent residue around the dispenser area and wipe it clean to prevent contamination of the next load of dishes.
These steps ensure optimal detergent usage and efficient dishwashing results.
Step 4: Selecting the appropriate dishwasher cycle
Follow these steps to select the appropriate cycle for your specific needs:
- Read the dishwasher manual to familiarize yourself with the available programs, cycles, and descriptions. Understanding what each cycle offers regarding cleaning power and duration is important.
- Assess the level of soiling on your dishes to select an appropriate cycle—shorter cycles for light soiling and robust ones for heavy dirt.
- If you want to conserve energy and water, consider the energy-saving, specialized, time-saving, and customizable options your dishwasher provides.
- Additionally, utilize features like delay starts to schedule wash cycles conveniently. Familiarizing yourself with these options ensures efficient and tailored cleaning for your dishes.
Step 5: Starting the dishwasher
Follow these simple steps to initiate the cleaning process:
- Double-check that all the dishes are properly loaded and arranged, and avoid obstructions to the spray arm or detergent dispenser.
- Firmly close the dishwasher door, ensuring that it latches securely.
- Add Finish dishwasher liquid detergent with rinse aid and dishwasher salt to prevent water spots on your dishes and effectively soften water to ensure better cleaning performance of your detergent
- Select the appropriate cycle using the control panel, adjusting parameters if necessary.
- Press the start button to initiate the cycle and monitor the progress indicator or timer via the control panel.
- Once the dishwasher is running, avoid opening the door unless it is extremely necessary.
- Wait for the cycle to complete, indicated by a light or beep. Allow additional drying time if needed.
After that, just relax as your dishwasher takes care of the rest!
Step 6: Unloading the dishwasher.
After the dishwasher cycle is complete, follow these steps for efficient unloading:
- Allow the dishwasher to cool down a few minutes before unloading to prevent burns from residual heat.
- Carefully open the dishwasher door, mindful of lingering heat and steam.
- Begin unloading the dishwasher’s bottom rack, removing plates, bowls, pots, and other larger items.
- Handle delicate items such as glassware or fine china with extra care, checking for residue.
- Remove silverware from the designated basket or rack.
- Proceed to the upper rack, removing cups, glasses, and smaller items. Check for leftover residues or water spots.
- Check the dishwasher interior for leftover food particles and debris, and wipe it down with a damp cloth if necessary.
- Finally, place the clean dishes in their designated storage locations.
- Once the dishwasher is empty, clean the dishwasher filter as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
