Are You Using Your Dishwasher Correctly? 5 Mistakes You Might Be Making

Dishwashers are supposed to make our lives easier. They save time, use less water than handwashing, and do a better job of sanitizing. But if you’re not using your dishwasher the right way, it might not be doing its job. Dirty dishes, spots on glasses, and leftover food in the machine are all signs something's wrong. Many people make the same common dishwasher mistakes without even knowing it.

The good news? These problems are easy to fix. Once you know what to look for, your dishwasher will clean better, last longer, and save you money on energy and water. Whether you run your dishwasher daily or only when it’s full, using it the right way makes a big difference in performance. Here are five mistakes you might be making—and how to fix them.

1. Pre-Rinsing Your Dishes Too Much

You might think you’re helping by rinsing your dishes before loading them. But most dishwashers today are designed to clean food off plates. When you rinse too well, your dishwasher sensors may think the dishes are already clean. That can lead to shorter cycles and less powerful washes, which means dirty dishes come out the other end.

Instead of rinsing, just scrape off the big food chunks and load the dish. Let your dishwasher do the work it was built to do. This also helps save water and energy.

2. Overloading the Dishwasher

Trying to cram too many dishes into one cycle is a common mistake. It might seem like you’re saving time and energy, but overloading prevents water and detergent from reaching all surfaces. Bowls can nest together, large pans can block spray arms, and glassware might knock against each other and chip.

Always follow your dishwasher’s rack layout. Leave space between dishes, face dirty surfaces inward, and avoid stacking items. A properly loaded dishwasher cleans better and protects your dishes from damage.

3. Using the Wrong Detergent or Too Much of It

Not all dishwashing detergents are the same. Some are better for hard water, some work best in newer machines, and some just don’t clean well. Using too much detergent can leave a filmy residue on your dishes. Using too little might not get them clean.

Check your dishwasher manual and local water type, then pick a detergent that works best for your situation. Pod-style detergents are convenient, but powder or gel can be adjusted more easily. Whatever you use, follow the dosing instructions closely.

4. Not Cleaning the Dishwasher Itself

Your dishwasher needs to be cleaned regularly to do its job well. Food particles, grease, and hard water buildup can clog filters and spray arms, making each wash cycle less effective. A dirty dishwasher can also smell bad and spread bacteria.

Clean the filter every week or two. Wipe down the door seals. Once a month, run a cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar on the top rack. Keeping your dishwasher clean boosts its performance and extends its life.

5. Choosing the Wrong Wash Cycle

Dishwashers come with different settings for a reason. Many people use the same quick or normal cycle every time, even when it’s not the best choice. Heavily soiled pots and pans may need a heavy-duty cycle. Delicate items like wine glasses might be better off with a gentle cycle.

Take a moment to match the wash cycle to the load. This ensures cleaner dishes, uses the right amount of water and energy, and helps avoid damage. Read your dishwasher’s manual to learn what each cycle is best for.

Using your dishwasher the right way isn’t hard, but it does take a little know-how. By avoiding these five common mistakes—pre-rinsing too much, overloading the machine, using the wrong detergent, skipping maintenance, and choosing the wrong cycle—you can get cleaner dishes and a longer-lasting appliance.

Take the time to load properly, pick the right settings, and keep your dishwasher in top shape. Doing so saves water, energy, and money, while keeping your kitchen running smoothly. Whether you’re cleaning up after a big family dinner or just doing a quick daily run, small changes can make a big difference in how well your dishwasher works.