With a dishwasher in the home, the process of cleaning up after meals is easier and a lot of time can be saved. However, if you are not properly loading your dishes and utensils, they may not be getting clean. In addition, you could be causing maintenance issues that could result in the need of appliance repair. To ensure that you are getting the most of your dishwasher and that it is in tip-top shape, keep reading.

Scrape the Food Away

Prior to loading your dishwasher with any dish or utensil, it is important that you scrape or wipe away any excess food. If you choose to skip this step, it may result in clogs within the dishwasher's drain line as well as the pump, which may result in appliance damage, potentially leading to expensive repairs. It may also lead to food residue left behind on dishes and utensils that have been washed.

Place Dishes on the Proper Rack

Cups, glasses, small bowls, and plastic containers that may warp or melt need to be placed on the top rack and at an angle. Pots, pans, and plates should only be loaded into the bottom rack of the dishwasher facing down.

Avoid Excess Loading

Though you may be tempted to get as many plates as you can into the dishwasher so you get the dishes done quicker, overcrowding the dishwasher is not a good idea. Not only will the dishes not get cleaned properly, but your dishwasher will be strained as well. If you do this too much, you will likely find yourself in need of premature appliance repairs.

Load Utensils Properly

Spoons, forks, and dinner knives need to be loaded into the cutlery basket on the bottom rack. Make sure that the handles are facing downward into the basket. Cutting knives and other utensils that have sharp ends are the only utensils that should be placed into the basket with the handle facing up, as they otherwise may result in accidental nicks or cuts. The top rack should be used for any large serving utensils, and they should be laid down flat with the spoon-side up so that water doesn't pool.

If you have not been doing the aforementioned things, you may be causing damage to your dishwasher. If you have been experiencing any issues with your dishwasher and it has not been operating properly, you need to contact appliance services in your local area as soon as possible to schedule repair.