8 Ways You’re Using Your Dishwasher Incorrectly

Powder or liquid dishwasher detergent goes in the dispenser, but there has been some debate about where to place detergent pods.

Cornell blames viral TikTok videos suggesting detergent pods should be tossed into the bottom of the dishwasher, not in the dispenser, for the confusion. It’s a mistake to follow that online advice.

The reason: Dishwashers have separate rinse and wash cycles. When you put a detergent pod in the bottom of the dishwasher, the soap gets washed down the drain before the wash cycle starts.“

Now you’re washing your dishes with just stark water that is hot,” Cornell says.

Some detergent pods contain rinse aids that are released during the rinse cycle. A separate rinse aid can help remove spots and improve drying but it isn’t needed, he adds.

There’s no denying that info about dishwasher parts and features and the filtration system doesn’t make for interesting reading, but skimming the manual — or at least keeping it handy — matters.

It’s a good source for troubleshooting tips, recommendations for detergents and rinse agents and phone numbers to call for service or advice. Already tossed the manual? You can use the manufacturer name and model number to download the manual online, Notini says.

Notini says most people don’t realize the dishwasher has a filter. It’s under the bottom rack of the dishwasher, and it needs to be cleaned.

Check the appliance manual for recommendations on how often to clean your dishwasher filter. Then, pop it out, rinse any food debris and scrub it with a wire brush (no soap required) to remove calcification before replacing the filter.

“It takes a few seconds to do, and it’s going to make your dishes cleaner,” Cornell says.

Reading the manual, rethinking how you load the dishwasher, where you put the detergent and how you manage maintenance can make your dishes look better and extend the life of your appliance.

Jodi Helmer is a contributing writer who covers gardening, health and the environment. She has also written for Scientific American, National Geographic Traveler and NPR.

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