How to load dishwashers correctly to avoid ‘racking up’ expensive water and energy bills (Image: Getty)
Dishwashers are a staple in many households, helping us clean plates, crockery and cutlery more effectively.
However, according to one expert, not many people may know there is a “correct” way to load it.
Lucina Fox from said correctly filling the dishwasher could help to save money on water and .
The expert said: “For example, you’ll want to keep all the dishes facing inwards and place the ones with tough reside on the bottom.
“This all stems from how the spray arms work. Just like the washing machine, you’ll want to wait until it’s fully loaded before putting it on to get the most out of it. But be careful because if it’s too full, not all of the dishes will get cleaned properly.”
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Many people will give their dishes a quick rinse before popping them in the appliance, but this isn’t necessary.
Removing actual pieces of food is crucial to prevent the appliance from blocking, but rinsing plates is a “waste of water and money”, according to Lucina.
Cups and bowls should also be placed on the top shelf of the dishwasher, facing down, in order to be cleaned properly.
This allows the spray arms to effectively get inside the items and clean them.
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Lucina said: “If your dishwasher has a basket for the utensils, it can be tempting to put them face down as it’s easier.
“However, this prevents the water from being able to access the dirty parts of the cutlery. Knives should be loaded with the blade facing down to prevent injuries, however.”
If you fancy washing pots, pans and trays in the dishwasher, it’s important to make sure they’re on the bottom shelf.
This is because they’ll likely have lots of tough residue like grease, and this is where the water pressure is at its highest.
Making sure you are aware of which items can and cannot be cleaned in the dishwasher is also essential.
This will help to improve efficiency as well as prevent the appliance from breaking.
Whirlpool recommended hand-washing items such as big kitchen knives, fine china, wooden or silver dishes, cast iron pans, as well as non-stick cookware.
Washing these items in the dishwasher can ruin the finish of them as well as cause damage, so it’s best to avoid.