Add vinegar to the wash cycle.
If you have a dishwasher, you want the best possible wash every time you run a load of dishes. This makes it important to properly use the dishwasher plus incorporate any additional items that will boost the overall cleaning power of the unit. Does this Spark an idea?
Pre-Rinse Dishes
Heavily soiled dishes should be pre-rinsed before putting them in the dishwasher. Rinse the dishes with hot water to soften and release any thick or chunky food particles. This allows the dishwasher to finish the wash routine without risk of dried-on food residue being left behind on the dishes.
Use Detergent Properly
Read your manual or the detergent cup of your dishwasher. Use the proper amount of dishwasher as noted on your unit. Typically if you have issues with hard water or spotting, you should fill the cup only halfway with detergent instead of filling it up all the way.
Wash the Dishwasher
You may not think of this step since the dishwasher itself is a cleaning unit, but residue can sometimes form in the dishwasher itself that requires the unit to be cleaned. To clean the dishwasher, fill a bowl with a few cups of water and a squirt of dish soap. Dip a cleaning rag into the soapy water and scrub down the inside of your dishwasher. Scrub along shelf tracks and in other crevices with an old toothbrush, then run a short dishwasher cycle to rinse the dishwasher.
Prevent Spotting and Film
By adding a cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle you can greatly reduce and in many cases altogether eliminate the buildup that accumulates on dishes. Pour a cup of vinegar into the base of your dishwasher before running the cycle and the vinegar will flush through the dishwasher. This boosts cleaning power and breaks up hard water residue quickly.
Use Your Warranty
If your dishwasher is under warranty you are typically allowed an annual maintenance call. A technician will visit the home, check all parts of the dishwasher and clean the unit for you at no charge. Contact your warranty services department to ask about this service and schedule an appointment.
Tags: your dishwasher, cleaning power, dishwasher itself, hard water, wash cycle