DIY Network

Dishwashers Dishwashers From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-131

Figure A

If you're not a fan of hand-washing dishes, then you probably rely on a dishwasher (figure A). An even though its job is to clean, it occasionally needs to be cleaned and cared for in order to operate properly. If you want to keep your dishwasher in peak condition, follow these simple suggestions -- and then grab your sunglasses, because those dishes are gonna sparkle!

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• If your dishes are still dirty after the dishwashing cycle, check your dishwasher manual to see whether you're loading the machine correctly. If it's loaded incorrectly, you could be blocking the water's path.

• The water temperature should be at least 120 degrees for proper cleaning.
  

  Figure B

• Filmy glasses Pour 1-1/2 to 2 cups chlorine bleach into a glass bowl and place in the bottom of the dishwasher. Load the glasses and run the machine up to the dry cycle. Remove the bowl and replace with a new bowl filled with 1-1/2 to 2 cups white vinegar. Run the complete cycle this time. Cloudy and etched spots should be removed from the glassware (figure B).

• Wet dishes at the end of the cycle Check the heating element for mineral deposits. If needed, clean it with vinegar and run it through the dishwasher. Newer dishwasher models often come with a built-in water-softening system with a salt indicator, which can lower the water hardness level and improve cleaning performance.
  

  Figure C

• Spots on dishes Mix together 1 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup borax (figure C). Place in a labeled container and add 1 teaspoon to your automatic dishwasher detergent each time you run the dishwasher.
  

Tip: Clean and sanitize sponges and dishcloths by placing them on the upper rack of the dishwasher when you run the machine. Or wet them and put them in the microwave on high for 30 seconds.