How to Load a Dishwasher Correctly for the Best Results

Loading a dishwasher incorrectly is one of the most common reasons dishes come out dirty or damaged. A few simple habits can dramatically improve cleaning performance and protect your glassware, cutlery and crockery from chips and scratches.

The Bottom Rack: Plates, Pots and Pans

The bottom rack is designed for your heaviest, dirtiest items. Here's how to load it correctly:

• Face plates inward and downward — spray arms rotate and water must reach the inside surface of plates. If plates face outward, water hits the back.
• Angle bowls at 45 degrees — flat-bottomed bowls collect water if loaded flat; tilting them lets water drain properly.
• Pots and pans face down — position them at the front or sides where the main spray arms direct the most water.
• Don't overcrowd — water needs to circulate. If items touch, they may not get properly cleaned and could chip each other.

The Top Rack: Glasses, Cups and Plastic

• Glasses go upside down at an angle — the angle allows water to run off the rim rather than pooling inside.
• Mugs and cups face downward — handles can face any direction as long as they're not blocking other items.
• Plastic items on the top rack only — the bottom rack is closest to the heating element. Heat can warp plastic — always use the top rack for plastic containers and lids.
• Lightweight items secured — light items can flip over in the spray. Use the tines (the prongs in the rack) to hold them in place.

The Cutlery Basket

• Mix handles up and handles down — sharp knives should always go handles up (blades down) for safety. Forks and spoons can alternate direction to prevent nesting.
• Avoid nesting — two spoons face-to-face trap food between them. Alternate directions so each piece is exposed to water.
• Chopsticks and long items — lay these flat in the top rack if your machine has a flat cutlery shelf, or secure them in a cutlery basket standing.

What Not to Put in a Dishwasher

• Cast iron (will rust)
• Non-stick cookware (strips the coating over time)
• Wooden utensils and boards (crack and warp)
• Fine china with metallic detailing (gold or silver rims will fade)
• Crystal glassware (may etch or crack from heat and water pressure)
• Aluminium items (may discolour)

Detergent and Rinse Aid Tips

Always use dishwasher-specific detergent — never hand wash liquid. Rinse aid is essential for spot-free drying; without it, water droplets dry as white spots on glasses. Use the recommended amount of detergent — more is not better and can leave residue.

When to Run a Hot Maintenance Cycle

Run your dishwasher empty on its hottest cycle once a month with a dishwasher cleaner tablet to remove grease and limescale build-up from the pump, spray arms and drain filter.

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