Dishwashers are fairly easy to use. That’s quite true, but when you get complacent while handling it, you might start using it incorrectly. And chances are, you probably think you have extensive knowledge of dishwashers. However, your habits and practices might affect your overall output. Here are some common mistakes you might be doing:
Washing non-dishwasher safe items
Dishwashers are designed to wash your kitchenware. Therefore, it’s common for most people to assume that they can wash everything in them. But some items should never have to see the insides of a dishwasher. Fragile kitchenware like ceramics or fine China is easily susceptible to breakages.
Non-stick saucepans and those made of aluminium and copper should also not go into the dishwasher to prevent rust. Any wooden utensils and some knives must also be hand-washed at all times. Ensure you check which items are dishwasher-friendly before washing them.
You separate your silverware by type
It might seem smart to play all your cutlery in their compartments, but you might get better and cleaner results when you mix them. Items like spoons, for example, tend to nest together when you bunch them up, making it difficult for the water jets to thoroughly clean them.
However, when washing stainless steel and silver cutlery or utensils together, you must be careful. If mixed, it could cause a chemical reaction that would damage your silverware. Also, don’t be tempted to place them in separate locations. Avoid washing those two together completely.
Your water isn’t hot enough
For optimum performance, your dishwasher needs hot water (roughly 48 degrees Celsius) to remove any food stains. If you’re unsure what your home’s water temperature is, you can check by using a meat thermometer in a glass of hot water. If it isn’t, you can adjust your water heater’s settings. That doesn’t mean you have to go beyond the required temperature. Not only will it not damage your dishware, but it will put you and your household at risk for burns and scalds.
Shutting the door when not in use
Keeping your dishwasher’s door closed when it’s not in use makes a lot of sense. But you might be doing your dishwasher more harm than good. Not many people know this mistake, so it’s not surprising that you probably don’t as well.
There are many reasons why it’s better to leave your dishwasher door slightly ajar when it’s not being used. Firstly, your dishwasher operates in wet conditions, and its rubber door seals are delicate to handle. When you fully shut your dishwasher’s door, those seals don’t get the chance to dry out and can promote mould growth.
Did you find any of your habits on this list? If you’ve realised that your dishwasher isn’t performing as it used, avoiding these habits will help it return to form. Of course, if you already know these mistakes but aren’t satisfied with your dishwasher, you should get professional help. A plumber can fix a dishwasher to get it working right again.
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