How to properly use your dishwasher?

The dishwasher is the favorite household appliance of those who do not particularly enjoy washing dishes.

It is a considerable time saver and a practical and economical solution: it allows you to consume less water (up to 70%) compared to washing by hand, according to Le Particulier.

Discover some tips for using your dishwasher properly.

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How to properly fill a dishwasher?

First of all, know that it is not useful to rinse the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.

On the other hand, be sure to remove all food residue to prevent it from getting stuck in the dishwasher, which could cause long-term problems.

To optimally fill the dishwasher, load from the back to the front.

Do not overload your appliance, as this can prevent water and detergent from circulating properly, and therefore not clean the dishes properly.

The dishwashing machine should also not be underloaded, to avoid wasting water and energy.

Place the plates and dishes with the face towards the center, where is the rotating arm that sends the water.

Use the cutlery basket or drawer and do not stack glasses or bowls on top of each other.

Read alsoHow to place the fork on the table?

Which program to choose?

Most dishwashers offer different wash programs depending on the type of dishes and soil.

The most common programs are:

• The

  normal cycle

   : for washing everyday dishes at 65°C;

• The

  short cycle

  : when the dishes are lightly soiled;

• The

  intensive cycle

   : recommended for very dirty pots and pans;

• The

  eco cycle

   : more economical in terms of water and energy consumption.

Choose the program best suited to the dishes to be washed or the automatic program if you are in doubt and your machine offers one.

What product to use?

The choice of product depends on the type of dishwasher you have.

There are two types of products:

To this, it is advisable to add a regenerating salt to fight against traces of limescale and tartar as well as rinsing liquid.

Use quality products for best washing results.

Read alsoHow to make your dishwashing products?

When should I empty my dishwasher?

Empty the dishwasher as soon as the wash cycle is finished to prevent dishes from getting wet and starting to smell bad.

Also, it frees up space in the dishwasher for later use.

If you are not available to empty the dishwasher immediately after the wash cycle, it is recommended that you use the door open drying feature to allow air to circulate through the dishwasher.

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How to clean a dishwasher?

Even if your dishwasher is designed to clean dishes, it can accumulate food and soap residue over time.

Here are some steps you can take to clean your dishwasher:

• Clean the filter

  : The filter is the part of the dishwasher that collects food residue and prevents it from clogging the pipes.

  Take it out of the dishwasher and wash it in hot soapy water to remove dirt.

  If it is very dirty, soak it in warm soapy water for about an hour.

• Wash the wash arms

   : they spray water on the dishes to clean them.

  If these arms are clogged, the dishes will not be washed properly.

  To clean them, remove them and rinse them under hot water to remove food residue.

• Clean dishwasher joints and edges

  that can accumulate soap and food residue.

  Use a cloth or sponge soaked in hot water and white vinegar to rinse these parts.

• Thoroughly clean

  (walls, tub, etc.) with a cleaning product specially designed for dishwashers.

  These products remove the residue of dishwasher tablets and food that has accumulated in the pipes and hidden parts of the dishwasher.

• Run an empty wash cycle

  : once you've cleaned the filter, wash arms and seals, run an empty wash cycle to remove any residue.

  You can add white vinegar to the detergent dispenser to remove odors and bacteria.

• Finally, remember to

  add salt

  to soften the water in the tray provided, as well as rinsing liquid if you are not using 3-in-1 tablets.

In short, the use of the dishwasher is practical, economical and saves time.

Regular maintenance will ensure optimum operation of the dishwasher.