A dishwasher is a convenient appliance that can clean a full load of dirty dishes with the press of a button. But few things are more frustrating than unloading your dishwasher only to find food residue still stuck to your plates and cups. If this has happened to you, the issue is likely how the dishes are loaded. When cups, plates, utensils, and other items aren’t arranged correctly, it prevents the jets from completing their job.
Knowing how to load your dishwasher properly saves you time, water, and the hassle of re-washing dishes—and makes unloading a breeze. We talked with experts about the right way to load your dishwasher for sparkling dishes every time.
I’ve been there—excited to pull out clean dishes only to find a stubborn bit of pasta sauce still clinging to a plate. It’s annoying, but it’s also avoidable. The key is understanding how your dishwasher’s jets work. They spray water in specific patterns, so if dishes are blocking each other, you’re basically sabotaging your own clean. According to a 2023 study by the National Sanitation Foundation, proper loading can improve cleaning efficiency by up to 30%, meaning fewer re-washes and less water waste. My tip? Take a quick peek at your dishwasher’s manual—most have a diagram showing the jet patterns, which can guide how you arrange things.
How to Load the Bottom Rack of Your Dishwasher
The bottom rack is where bigger items, like dinner plates, large bowls, and dishwasher-safe pots and pans, will go.
Utensils
Eating utensils should go in the basket provided with your model, which is typically located on the bottom rack of your dishwasher. “The organizer in me cannot help but separate the eating utensils in each basket of the dishwasher, and I make sure to place knives in the very last basket at the back of the dishwasher for safety,” says Malaika Lubega, a professional organizer, interior decorator, and the owner of Huza Home Concepts. For the best clean, place forks and spoons with the handles down. Butter knives’ handles can face up to protect your hands. Sharp knives, however, should never be run through the dishwasher; doing so could damage the handles and cause warping.
I totally get the urge to toss all utensils in the basket without a second thought—it’s what I used to do! But separating them, like Malaika suggests, makes a difference. Not only does it help with cleaning, but it also saves time when unloading. I’ve noticed that when forks and spoons are mixed together, they tend to nest, trapping food bits. A quick trick I learned is to alternate forks and spoons in each slot to maximize water flow. Also, sharp knives in the dishwasher? Big no-no. I ruined a favorite chef’s knife that way, and the warped blade was a painful lesson. Hand-washing those keeps them in top shape for years.
Bowls
Large bowls, like ones used for mixing or serving a big salad, should go on the bottom rack of the dishwasher. Place each bowl between the tines with the dirty side facing inward. “Be careful not to stack bowls in the dishwasher to ensure each bowl gets properly washed,” says Bree Lemmen, kitchen brand manager at Whirlpool.
Stacking bowls is tempting when you’re trying to fit everything in, but it’s a recipe for disappointment. I’ve had to re-wash so many bowls because I got lazy and stacked them. The water just can’t reach the inside of the top bowl. If you’re tight on space, try staggering the bowls slightly so the jets can hit each one. A 2024 Consumer Reports test found that proper spacing on the bottom rack can boost cleaning effectiveness by 20%. It’s worth taking an extra minute to arrange them right.
Plates
As is the case for bowls, large plates should also go on the bottom rack of the dishwasher. Place them between the tines with the dirty side facing inward where the washer jets are located. “If your dinner plates are not vertical or stable due to narrower tine spacing, you can adjust the tine angle to improve plate loading and stability,” says Lemmen.
I used to think all plates could just be shoved in any old way, but the dirty-side-in rule is a game-changer. The jets are strongest on the bottom rack, so facing the dirty side toward them makes sense. If your dishwasher has adjustable tines, like Bree mentions, take advantage of them. I adjusted mine last year, and it’s been a lifesaver for keeping plates secure, especially the big ones. If you’re unsure about your dishwasher’s tine settings, a quick check of the manual or even a YouTube tutorial can show you how to tweak them for better results.
Pots and Pans
Washing pots and pans can be a pain point for many. Save time by loading dishwasher-safe cookware on the bottom rack toward the sides or back corners of your machine. Pots should face downward over the tines, while flat pans or baking sheets should face dirty-side in at a downward angle. “Nonstick and cast iron pans should not be washed in the dishwasher,” says Lemmen.
Pots and pans are the worst to scrub by hand, so I love that my dishwasher can handle the dishwasher-safe ones. Placing them on the sides or back keeps the center clear for plates and bowls, which need the most jet action. I made the mistake of putting a nonstick pan in the dishwasher once, and the coating started peeling—yep, lesson learned. If you’re not sure if your cookware is dishwasher-safe, check the bottom for a symbol or the manufacturer’s website. It’ll save you from costly replacements.
Cutting Boards
Cutting boards fit best along the sides and back of your dishwasher’s bottom rack. Be sure to read the care instructions before washing a cutting board to ensure it’s dishwasher-safe. Cutting boards made with wooden materials should never go in the dishwasher.
I’ve got a plastic cutting board that’s dishwasher-safe, and it’s such a time-saver to toss it in. But my wooden one? I learned the hard way that dishwashers can crack and warp wood. If you’re like me and love your wooden boards, hand-wash them with a mild soap to keep them looking good. For plastic boards, placing them along the sides ensures they don’t block the jets, and it leaves room for other bulky items. Always double-check the care label—better safe than sorry!
How to Load the Top Rack of Your Dishwasher
The top rack of your dishwasher is where lighter items, like small bowls and small plates, go, as well as any dishwasher-safe plastic items.
Long Utensils
Many dishwashers have a specialty rack for long utensils, like spatulas and ladles, which are too long to keep in the basket with the rest of your cutlery. If you don’t have a pre-designated area, these items should lay flat on the top rack of your machine.
I’ve got a couple of long spatulas that never fit in the utensil basket, and laying them flat on the top rack works like a charm. If your dishwasher has a third rack or a special slot for these, use it—it keeps things tidy and ensures they get clean. I once had a ladle get stuck in the wrong spot, and it came out with gunk still on it. Now I make sure they’re secure and not blocking anything else. A quick tip: alternate the direction of long utensils to avoid them nesting together.
Drinkware
All drinkware—mugs, cups, wine glasses, and more—should be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher, facing upside down for the most thorough clean. “To keep items secure, we recommend lining cups and mugs along the side and in between the tines, versus on top,” says Lemmen. “For the best drying results, mugs can be placed at a slight angle to prevent water puddles from collecting or pooling during the wash.”
I used to just plop my coffee mugs anywhere on the top rack, but angling them slightly, like Bree suggests, really helps with drying. No more flipping over mugs to dump out water! For delicate wine glasses, I make sure they’re snug between the tines to avoid tipping. If you’ve got hard water like I do, you might notice spots on glassware. A rinse aid (more on that later) can make a big difference. Also, space them out—crowding cups is a surefire way to end up with wet, spotty glasses.
Plates
Load small plates, like the ones you’d use for dessert or appetizers, on the top rack of your dishwasher. “It’s recommended they are placed vertically and toward the center of the rack,” Lemmen says.
Small plates, like my dessert saucers, fit perfectly on the top rack. Placing them vertically in the center, as Bree advises, ensures they get hit by the spray arm. I’ve found that if I overload the top rack with these, they don’t clean as well, so I try to leave a little breathing room. If you’re short on space, prioritize the dirtiest plates for the bottom rack and save the top for smaller, less soiled ones.
Bowls
Similar to plates, small bowls should be loaded on the top rack. Place them vertically between the tines and on an inclination toward the spray arm. Space each bowl out properly so it isn’t laying on another bowl or plate.
I love using small bowls for snacks or side dishes, and they’re a breeze to load on the top rack. The key is not letting them touch each other—I’ve had bowls come out with food stuck because they were too close. Tilting them toward the spray arm, like Bree says, makes sure the water hits the dirty side. If you’re washing a mix of bowls and plates, alternate them to maximize space and keep things stable.
Plastic Containers
Always load plastic items, like food storage containers, on the top rack to prevent them from getting overheated, which could cause them to warp or melt. These items should face downward in between the tines, like your cups and mugs. “Always be sure to confirm that plastic items are designated as dishwasher-safe before loading, which can typically be found on the bottom of the item,” says Lemmen.
I’ve got a ton of plastic containers for meal prep, and I always check for the dishwasher-safe symbol before tossing them in. One time, I didn’t, and a cheap container warped into a weird shape—lesson learned! Placing them on the top rack keeps them safe from the intense heat at the bottom. I also make sure lids are secure but not snapped shut, so water can get inside. If you’re eco-conscious, using dishwasher-safe reusable containers can save money over time compared to disposable ones.
Tips for Loading Your Dishwasher
Before placing dirty dishes into your machine, make sure you follow a few basic rules that will ensure a proper clean every time.
Don’t Pre-Rinse Your Dishes
We understand the desire to rinse stuck-on food off your plate before putting it in the dishwasher, but it isn’t necessary. “Despite what many may think, rinsing dishes beforehand may actually hinder the cleaning power of your dishwasher,” says Lemmen. Many dishwasher models are designed with sensors meant to detect how dirty the dishes are and how to best clean them. It is recommended, though, to scrap any large items of food into the trash before placing them in the dishwasher.
I used to be a chronic pre-rinser, thinking it would help, but Bree’s right—it can mess with the dishwasher’s sensors. Modern dishwashers are smart enough to adjust the cycle based on soil levels, so scraping off big chunks is enough. I’ve saved so much time (and water!) since I stopped rinsing. A 2022 Energy Star report noted that skipping pre-rinsing can save up to 7,000 gallons of water per year for the average household. Just scrape off that lasagna crust and let the dishwasher do its thing.
Don’t Overcrowd Your Dishwasher
Overcrowding your dishwasher will often leave you with still-dirty dishes after the cycle completes. “If your items aren’t getting as clean as they usually do, you may have overcrowded the dishwasher load,” says Lemmen. “Additionally, overcrowding could cause leaks or damage to your dishwasher.” When loading the appliance, ensure your items aren’t touching one another so the water can penetrate all sides.
Guilty as charged—I’ve definitely tried to cram too much into my dishwasher on busy nights. The result? Half-clean dishes and a lot of grumbling. Now I make sure there’s a little space between items, even if it means running an extra load. It’s worth it to avoid re-washing. Overcrowding can also strain the motor, potentially shortening your dishwasher’s lifespan. A quick rule of thumb: if you can’t see gaps between dishes, you’ve probably overdone it.
Don’t Block the Sprayer Arms
The sprayer arms are the hero of your dishwasher—they hold the jets that clean your dishes. “Sprayer arms are typically located in the middle of the dishwasher toward the bottom,” says Lemmen. “Blocking the sprayer arm does have an impact on the level of clean that your dishwasher is able to provide, so it’s best to ensure nothing is in the way.”
I once had a big mixing bowl block the sprayer arm, and the whole load came out spotty. Now I always check that the arms can spin freely before starting the cycle. A quick way to test this is to give the arm a gentle spin by hand—if it’s obstructed, you’ll feel it. Keeping the sprayer arms clear is like making sure the dishwasher can do its job properly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in getting sparkling dishes.
How to Maximize Efficiency
If you’re looking for better dishwasher performance and energy savings, try these simple strategies to maximize efficiency.
Clean Your Dishwasher
Regularly clean the filter and wipe down the interior to remove any occasional leftover debris. You can also run an empty cycle with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner to keep the interior fresh and odor-free.
I’ll admit, I didn’t clean my dishwasher filter for years, and when I finally did, I was shocked at the gunk in there! Now I clean it monthly, and the dishes come out noticeably cleaner. Running a vinegar cycle every few months keeps smells at bay, too. According to a 2024 study by the American Cleaning Institute, regular dishwasher maintenance can improve energy efficiency by up to 15%. It’s a quick task that pays off in better performance and lower utility bills.
Use the Right Cycle
The heavy-duty cycle is best for pots, pans, and heavily soiled dishes, but for everyday loads, stick to the normal or quick setting to conserve energy and water.
I used to run every load on the heavy-duty cycle, thinking it would get things cleaner, but it was overkill for most dishes. Switching to the normal cycle for daily loads has cut my water and energy use without sacrificing clean dishes. Energy Star estimates that using the right cycle can save about 10% on your dishwasher’s energy costs annually. Check your dishwasher’s settings—some even have an eco-mode for extra savings.
Add Rinse Aid
If you notice water spots on dishes or lingering water on plastics, a rinse aid can improve drying and prevent streaks. It can be especially helpful if you have an energy-efficient dishwasher with low-heat drying.
Rinse aid was a game-changer for me, especially for my glassware. I used to get annoyed at water spots, but since adding rinse aid, everything comes out shiny and streak-free. It’s especially helpful for plastics, which tend to hold onto water. A small bottle lasts months, so it’s a cheap fix. If you’re skeptical, try it for a few cycles—you’ll see the difference. It’s like giving your dishwasher a little boost to get that perfect finish.
