By Arianne Cohen
The dishwasher is probably one of the most popular kitchen appliances. But, just because you have one, doesn't mean you are using it correctly. Below, we've listed five super-smart tricks you've probably never heard of.
5 Smart Dishwasher Tricks1. Don't Pre-rinse
It's a waste of water and energy. Not only that, but if there's no food left for the detergent to attack, it can go after your glassware and make it cloudy.
2. Save Detergent
The amount you use depends on how dirty the dishes are, not on how many there are. If you have a full load of lightly soiled dishes, use only a little.
3. Check the Manual
There's usually a handy illustration of how to load your particular model. (If the manual's long gone, check the manufacturer's website.)
4. Load Down
Make sure no pans, bowls or cups are facing upward and open. Open dishes catch dirty water, and the whole load gets repeatedly bathed in it. (Tip: When a load doesn't clean this is usually the culprit!)
5. Wash on Normal
This is the cycle consumer testing groups test appliances on, and despite what you might think, it's by far the most efficient.
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