Dishwasher Loading 101

April 2, 2025  |  Home Maintenance, New Home Tips

We consulted with the experts at Whirlpool Appliances to learn how to properly load a dishwasher. It’s something most of us do daily, and yet I’m willing to bet each person in your family has their own “dish loading” style.

How to Load Your Dishwasher

1. Dishwashing detergent is designed to interact with food particles. Scrap but do not rinse your dishes.
2. Angle dishes downward. This is the optimal position for washing and drying .
3. Place dishes so that the dirty side faces toward the center of the dishwasher.
4. Place large items like mixing bowls or pans, on the back side or sides of the bottom rack facing the center of the dishwasher. You can place smaller plates around these larger items
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5. Don’t overcrowd items and load between the tines. Tines are the protrusions on the racks that separate your dishes.
6. Place mugs and glasses on the top rack facing down. You can add small plates separated by the tines, facing downward and toward the center of the dishwasher.
7. If you have an upper rack (above the top rack) it’s the perfect place for utensils or plastic items. You don’t want plastic items anywhere near heating elements.
8. Silverware loading is specific. Spoons and forks should be placed with handles down. Place knives with handles up to avoid cuts when loading and unloading.
9. Lastly, be sure you’re not blocking the sprayer arms with any dishes. Just reach in and give it a spin to make sure it is not blocked.

Using your dishwasher uses far less water and energy than hand-washing dishes. Proper loading of your dishwasher ensures the best performance. For every little detail on loading your dishwasher, visit Whirlpool.com. 

Visit HolidayBuilders.com to learn about move-in ready homes and homes to build throughout Florida.

(Dishwasher Photo courtesy of The Spruce. Photo of Mugs in Dishwasher courtesy of Aritha from Pixabay.)

This post was written by Tina Suiter.