What to Do When Your Dishwasher Is Not Cleaning Properly
A dishwasher that's leaving food residue, grease or cloudiness on dishes is frustrating — but the cause is usually simple and fixable. Here are the most common reasons dishwashers don't clean properly and how to fix them.
1. The Spray Arms Are Blocked
Spray arms distribute water throughout the dishwasher. If the holes in the spray arms are blocked by food particles or mineral deposits, water pressure drops and cleaning suffers. Remove the spray arms (they usually unclip easily) and rinse under running water. Use a toothpick to clear any blocked holes. This is one of the most common causes of poor cleaning.
2. The Filter Is Dirty
Most modern dishwashers have a filter at the bottom of the tub that traps food debris. A clogged filter reduces water circulation and leaves food particles recirculating onto dishes. Remove the filter (usually a twist-and-lift mechanism) and rinse it under warm running water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Clean the filter monthly.
3. Using Too Little Detergent
Detergent tablets are convenient but can underperform with heavily soiled loads or hard water. Try premium tablets (Finish Quantum is widely recommended in Australia). If you use powder or gel, check the amount — too little leaves dishes dirty, too much leaves residue.
4. Hard Water Build-Up
Sydney's water is moderately hard. Mineral deposits can coat the dishwasher interior and dishes, leaving a white film or cloudiness. Use a dishwasher cleaner (like Finish Dishwasher Cleaner) monthly. Ensure the rinse aid dispenser is full — rinse aid is especially important in hard water areas to prevent spotting and filming.
5. Incorrect Loading
Poor loading blocks water and detergent from reaching all surfaces. Key principles:
- Face dishes toward the spray arm in the centre
- Don't nest bowls or plates together
- Large items (pots, pans) go on the bottom; delicate items on top
- Don't block the spray arm rotation
6. Water Temperature Is Too Low
Dishwashers need hot water to dissolve grease. If your hot water system is set too low or the dishwasher fills with cold water, cleaning will suffer. Run the kitchen tap until hot water flows before starting the dishwasher to ensure it fills with hot water from the start.
7. The Detergent Dispenser Is Blocked
If the dispenser door doesn't open during the cycle (blocked by a large item, or mechanically stuck), detergent never reaches the wash water. Check that nothing is blocking the dispenser and that the door opens freely.
Oceania Appliances: Quality Dishwashers in Sydney
If your dishwasher is beyond repair, we carry ex-display and graded Bosch, LG and Electrolux dishwashers at significant savings. Free delivery across Sydney. Contact us at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.