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5 Best Tips to Maximize Dishwasher Efficiency

5 Best Tips to Maximize Dishwasher Efficiency

Dishwashers are trusted companions who save a lot of time, effort, energy, and money to keep the dishes sparking clean and shiny. If it's maximum use, the dishwasher can help you make a great difference in your daily housework, even with the smallest jobs. 

Properly utilizing your dishwasher unit can make a huge difference in your routine, even in the smallest of ways. That’s why we have compiled the five best tips to maximize dishwasher efficiency to ensure it delivers the ultimate dishwasher performance in every season!

1. Always run full loads 

Always run the dishwasher with full loads. Running the dishwasher in multiple batches lets it consume more water and energy with every wash cycle. Additionally, loading multiple sets of kitchenware takes more fuss.

Despite how many times you run your dishwasher in a single day or how much effort you put into choosing the best dishwasher detergent, you risk unsatisfactory cleaning if you don’t stack your dishwasher correctly. 

Thankfully, knowing how to load your dishwasher is straightforward – as long as you follow some best practices. 

2. The right amount of liquid detergent 

The idea that "the more, the merrier" doesn't hold true when it comes to dishwasher detergent; it's essential to use the correct amount of detergent properly.

Using too much dishwasher detergent can lead to excessive suds, poor cleaning, damage to dishes, and potential harm to the dishwasher. Conversely, not using the recommended dosage can result in ineffective removal of grease, grime, food residues, and stains on dishes.

Whether you are new to this appliance or are using liquid detergent for the first time, learn how to use the dishwasher effectively with liquid detergent.

3. Air-dry the dishes

Rather than relying on electric heat or a fan, simply air dry dishes by leaving the washer door open after the cycle. Allowing dishes to air dry overnight can save energy and protect your cookware from high temperatures.

Additionally, opening the washer door and letting the dishwasher air dry releases the trapped odors, ensuring a fresh-smelling dishwasher for your next load. Learn various other practical solutions to say goodbye to the dishwasher smell and deodorize it!

4. Time your wash cycle wisely 

To streamline your dishwashing routine, keep used dishes in the dishwasher throughout the day. Load the final batch after dinner and use the “Delay Start” feature to schedule a convenient wash time, such as during off-peak utility hours when energy rates may be lower. This will provide a more cost-effective and hands-free experience.

5. Place plates facing inward 

In a dishwasher, water sprays from the center outward rather than shooting up vertically due to the spinning sprayer arms. 

To ensure thorough cleaning, ensure you place the heavily soiled parts of the dishes facing the water spray directly, including the tops of plates, pans, and cutting boards.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Some of the most common mistakes that people make while using the dishwasher include the following: 

  • Overloading the dishwasher, blocking water and detergent from reaching all items.

  • Improperly stacking dishes leads to inadequate cleaning due to blocked water and detergent flow.

  • Using the wrong detergent type or quantity impacts cleaning performance and potentially damages the dishwasher.

  • Running partial loads instead of waiting for a full load wastes water, energy, and detergent.

Clean your dishwasher at least once a month, using Finish Dishwasher Cleaner to deep clean the parts of the dishwasher you can't see and remove grease and limescale buildup in the pipes, ensuring optimal efficiency. However, if you notice any odors or visible debris, it's advisable to clean it more frequently.

Yes, only the best dishwasher rinse aids, such as Finish Rinse Aid, will prevent water spots on your dishes, ensuring a brilliant shine on your glasses and dishes. It provides a protective barrier between the food and your dishes, and its special formula will help to leave your dishes streak-free and dry.