Let’s face it—after a long day, the last thing you want to do is stand at the sink scrubbing dishes.

That’s why the dishwasher is such a lifesaver.

But here’s the thing: if you’re just tossing plates in and hitting start, you might not be using it as effectively—or as efficiently—as you could be.

With just a few simple habits, you can get sparkling clean dishes and extend the life of your machine.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to keep your dishwasher (and your dishes) in top shape.

The Right Way to Load It

Believe it or not, loading your dishwasher properly makes all the difference.

It’s not just about making everything fit—it’s about giving every item a chance to get thoroughly cleaned.

Bottom Rack

This is where the big stuff goes: think sauce-covered pots, deep pans, and large plates.

Stack plates vertically and close together, but not so tight that water can’t flow between them.

Upper Rack

Use this for your more delicate items—glasses, mugs, small bowls, and saucers.

Make sure cups are tilted slightly to prevent puddles on top, and don’t overcrowd them, or you risk chips and cracks.

Top Tray (If You Have One)

Many newer dishwashers have a shallow top tray perfect for utensils, especially knives and serving tools.

Lay them flat so they get a full rinse and don’t block the sprayer arms.

Don’t Forget About Pots

Straight-sided pots should go upside down with a slight tilt so water can run off and clean the insides properly.

Cutlery Basics

Keep forks, spoons, and knives separated in the basket with handles facing up (and blades pointing down for safety).

This prevents them from nesting together and missing spots.

Items to Keep Out of the Dishwasher

Just because it fits doesn’t mean it belongs in there. Some items are better washed by hand to avoid damage.

Wooden utensils or boards – They can warp or crack.
Thin plastic containers – They might melt or lose shape.
Copper, aluminum, or silver – They may tarnish or discolor.
Fine glassware and crystal – Risk of fogging or micro-cracks.
Nonstick cookware – The coating can wear off faster.
Sharp knives and graters – Dishwashers can dull blades quickly.

Choosing the Best Wash Cycle

All those buttons and icons on your dishwasher? They actually serve a purpose. Here’s a quick guide to what’s what:

40–50°C (light): Great for everyday loads that aren’t heavily soiled.
50–60°C (medium): Ideal for dishes with food residue or tea stains.
60–70°C (heavy): Use this for greasy pans and baked-on messes.
70–80°C (hygienic): Perfect after handling raw meat—sanitizes thoroughly.

If you want to save on energy, the eco mode runs longer but uses less water and electricity.

What Kind of Detergent Works Best?

Your dishwasher can only do so much if the cleaning products aren’t up to scratch. Here’s what to use:

Capsules or tablets: These are the all-in-one heroes—detergent, salt, and rinse aid.
Gel: Works well for shorter cycles and lower temps.
Powder: Budget-friendly but can be harsh on delicate items.
Dishwasher salt: Essential if you have hard water—it helps prevent limescale.
Rinse aid: Keeps your glassware shiny and streak-free.

Surprising Ways Dishwashers Save You Money

Aside from saving you time, your dishwasher could be helping your wallet, too.

Water usage: One cycle uses around 16 liters—way less than hand-washing a full load.
Electricity: Run it overnight with a dual-rate meter to take advantage of off-peak pricing.
Detergents: Buying in bulk helps cut down on the cost per wash.

Keep It Clean and It’ll Last Longer

A little maintenance goes a long way. Take care of your dishwasher regularly and you’ll avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Wipe the door seals: Stops odors and mold from building up.
Unclog the spray arms: Use a small brush or compressed air to keep water flowing.
Clean the filter: Rinse out food bits and grease at least once a week.
Run a cleaner through it: Every month or so, use a dishwasher cleaner to flush the system.

The Bottom Line

Your dishwasher is more than just a modern convenience—it’s an investment.

With just a few mindful habits, you can keep it running efficiently for years to come while getting spotless dishes every time.

Load smart, choose the right products, and give it a little TLC. Your future self will thank you.