Don’t we all hate doing dishes? But we have to eat, which means more dirty dishes in your sink. Fortunately, a dishwasher is the only solution you have to save you the hassle of hand washing your dishes. However, people make many mistakes regarding where to put soap in dishwasher. If you suspect you’ve not been doing it right and wouldn’t want to compromise its dishwashing capabilities, keep reading.
What’s the Difference Between Normal and Automatic Dishwashing Soap?
What happens when you’ve run out of automatic dishwashing detergent? The first thing that crosses your mind is to run to the nearest supermarket to get the normal dishwashing liquid. After all, it’s designed for washing dishes. However, liquid dishwashing soap only works for handwashing applications alone.
Using it makes your machine prone to leaking water because the rub will fill with bubbles. The soap will also leave residue on the dishes. If your automatic dishwashing detergent runs out, switch to washing your dishes by hand using the regular dishwashing soap.
How and Where to Put Your Soap in a Dishwasher
Step 1: Calculate how much detergent you need for washing your dishes
It’s not easy deciding how much detergent your dishes need, but you can go for a product with sachets for one wash at a time. Follow the instructions on the container to minimize wastage and prevent water leaks.
Step 2: Pour the dish washing soap into the dispenser
The dispenser is usually inside of your dishwasher door. First, you must wipe it with a dry kitchen cloth if it still has some residue. Try opening it again to see if it’s tightly closed.
Step 3: Secure the dispenser lid firmly
Step 4: Choose the “wash and dry cycle” feature and press “start.”
How to Wash Your Dishes Using a Dishwasher?
After pouring the detergent correctly into the dishwasher, it’s time to set it to action.
Loading the Dishwasher
Step 1: Remove food particles from your utensils to prevent drain clogging
Step 2: Load the basket at the bottom
It’s best if you load the bottom basket inside-out. Now place your larger utensils, starting with the pans, pots, and trays. Ensure they’re facing upside down so that the nozzles can clean them effectively.
Step 3: Place smaller utensils on the top basket
Smaller utensils like mugs, glasses, and small bowls should fit inside the top loader. They should also be upside down to encourage thorough wash. Make sure glasses lie at a specific angle to avoid breakage. Also, avoid overloading the dishwasher as it may prevent the spray arms from reaching the utensils
Step 4: Add the automatic dishwasher detergent
Follow instructions on the detergent label to ensure you put the right amount. It doesn’t matter whether your utensils are extremely greasy. The detergent will still work provided there is enough water.
Running the Dishwasher
Step 1: Select the lightest cycle
The lightest cycle boasts energy efficiency and less usage of water. They can run for 30-50 minutes and wash less greasy dishes like cups and plates.
Step 2: Choose the intense cycle for the greasiest dishes
Greasy dishes contain oil and stubborn stains that require an intense dishwashing cycle for effective cleaning.
Step 3: Decide between air dry and dry program
If you want to use your dishes immediately, run the dry program. If you’re not in a hurry, select the air-dry option. The latter option helps you save on power.
Remember, the Half Load option is best for fewer dishes because it requires less water, detergent, and energy. Choosing the wrong program can compromise your dishwasher’s ability to clean effectively.
Cleaning your dishwasher
After cleaning your dishes, please don’t assume the dishwasher will clean itself too. Here is how to clean to boost its performance and prevent buildup.
Step 1: Start with the exterior
Using a kitchen hand cloth, mild detergent, and lukewarm water, wipe off the dishwasher’s exterior. This will remove food stains and finger marks.
Step 2: Clean the filter
Cleaning your dishwasher’s filter will be cumbersome because it is near the basket at the bottom. It’s likely to trap food particles, making the drain more susceptible to clogging. Remove it and place it in a basin or pan in water. Use a brush to remove the trapped food particles stuck in it.
Step 3: Clean the tub
Again, use a gentle cloth to wipe off the food residue or grime that may be stuck in the tub.
Conclusion
Your dishwasher can only remain effective if you use the right detergent and arrange your dishes properly. Its efficiency also depends on how well you clean it after washing your dishes. Even if the automatic detergent runs out, avoid using regular dishwashing liquids. Hand wash them instead to prevent your machine from getting spoilt.
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