Why is my dishwasher not cleaning dishes properly?
You depend on your dishwasher to help keep kitchen clean-up time to a minimum. If your dishwasher is not cleaning well, don’t worry: there may be a simple solution to get it back up and running. Follow this guide to get tips and ideas if your dishwasher is not washing.
1. Dirty or clogged dishwasher filter
A clean filter is necessary for optimal washing performance—if bits of food or other debris are caught in the filter, you could end up with dishes that are less than clean.
Clean your dishwasher filter
First, reference your product manual for specific filter removal and cleaning instructions, since it can vary by model. To clean the filter, remove it from the bottom of the dishwasher and soak it in warm, soapy water. For stubborn stuck-on bits, gently scrub the filter with a soft-bristled brush.
If your dishwasher still appears to be clogged after cleaning the filter, consult this guide for troubleshooting clogs.
2. Water supply or temperature issues
Your water supply or water lines could be the culprit of your dishwasher not cleaning. Dishes may not be cleaned properly without the right amount and temperature of water.
Check your water supply and flush the water lines
Make sure that the water supply is turned on. To ensure that hot water is running through your dishwasher, run hot water in the sink closest to the dishwasher for at least 30 seconds.
3. Pre-rinsing dishes before loading
Pre-rinsing dishes before loading them into the dishwasher may seem like the best option. However, while scraping food off dishes is recommended, pre-washing or pre-rinsing may not be as helpful as it seems.
Scrape off food, but skip pre-rinsing
Fully pre-washing or pre-rinsing dishes may interfere with the sensors in some newer dishwashers. These sensors are designed to detect the level of soil and adjust the cleaning cycle accordingly. When dishes are pre-rinsed too thoroughly, the sensors may register the load as cleaner than it actually is, resulting in a shorter or less effective cleaning cycle. As a result, depending on the dishwasher, it may be better to scrape off excess food debris but avoid pre-rinsing dishes too much before loading them into the dishwasher to help ensure optimal cleaning performance.
4. Not loading dishes correctly
If dishes aren’t loaded properly, it can be difficult for the water spray to easily reach them. This can mean that soils and detergent aren’t rinsed away effectively. You may also notice marks or scratches on some of your dishes.
Load items carefully
A properly loaded dishwasher helps ensure an optimal clean for each item. Dishes should always be placed soiled-side down and inward toward the spray arms. Space items out and avoid stacking or blocking the spray arms so that water can reach all surfaces for effective cleaning, rinsing and drying.
Black or gray marks on your dishes can also indicate that dishes were loaded too close together. Make sure to keep aluminum utensils and items away from glasses and other dishes to help avoid these marks.
5. Improper detergent amount or quality
It’s easy to accidentally use too much detergent, which can cause residue build-up on dishes. Not using a rinse aid can also result in streaky or cloudy dishes and glassware.
Use the right amount of detergent and rinse aid
Always use automatic dishwashing detergent only—other detergents or soaps can affect washing performance or cause suds to overflow. One detergent pack or detergent tablet, like these tablets from affresh brand1, is usually sufficient for normal loads. If using powder detergent, start with one tablespoon per load, adding more if needed. Powder detergent can also lose effectiveness over time or if exposed to air, causing it to clump and not dissolve properly. Store it somewhere cool and dry and replace it as necessary.
Rinse aid can help minimize the buildup of hard water mineral deposits. Add rinse aid for optimal washing and drying performance.
6. Wrong dishwasher cycle selected
Selecting the wrong dishwasher cycle may lead to ineffective cleaning. Each dishwasher cycle is designed for specific types of loads, such as heavy-duty, normal or delicate. Choosing the wrong cycle may result in dishes not being cleaned thoroughly.
Choose the right cycles and settings
Always start by reading the dishwasher manual to understand each cycle's purpose and select the appropriate one based on the dishes' soil level and material.
In most dishwashers, you'll find a variety of cycles designed to cater to different cleaning needs. The Normal Cycle is your go-to for everyday dishes with average soil, completing the wash and dry process typically without extra water or heat.
For a quick clean-up, the Quick Wash Cycle, also known as the 1-Hour Wash, is a good choice for lightly soiled dishes.
The Sensor Cycle automatically adjusts wash and dry settings based on temperature, soil level and load size, typically using minimal water and energy.
The Heavy Cycle uses extra water and high temperatures to handle your tough loads. It’s particularly suited for heavily soiled items like pots, pans and casserole dishes.
A Prewash Cycle, such as Soak & Clean on select dishwashers from Whirlpool brand, soaks dishes with dried or baked-on food, saving time on presoaking.
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7. Dirty dishwasher interior
Soils, detergent and minerals can build up on the inside of your dishwasher, which can cause dishes to come out less than sparkling.
Regularly clean your dishwasher
Keeping your dishwasher interior clean is easy, whether you use vinegar and baking soda or a dishwasher cleaner such as affresh® dishwasher cleaner. Follow this step-by-step guide to clean your dishwasher every 30 days.
Why is my dishwasher not cleaning the bottom rack?
Improper loading, a clogged or blocked spray arm or a clogged filter may cause your dishwasher to perform poorly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes on the bottom rack, check for these issues and consult your owner’s manual. Consult a professional for repairs if you’re still having issues.
Why is the top rack of my dishwasher not getting clean?
If dishes on the top rack of your dishwasher are not getting clean, improper loading may have blocked the spray arms from moving. Double check that the spray arms can move freely, that you’ve loaded the dishwasher properly and that the filter is clean and clear of clogs. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional if you need more assistance or repairs.
Large Capacity Dishwasher with 3rd Rack
Load more, run less*
Load hard-to-fit utensils or measuring spoons to free up more space for dishes below with Whirlpool® Dishwashers with 3rd Rack
*Compared to Whirlpool® Dishwashers without a 3rd level rack.
Why is silverware not getting clean in my dishwasher?
If your silverware isn’t coming out as clean as you’d like it, make sure you are not overloading the silverware baskets. Use the basket separators if your dishwasher is equipped with them and load the silverware with the handle pointing downward—except for knives, which should be loaded with the sharp end pointed down.
If your silverware isn't coming out clean despite being loaded correctly, check that the dishwasher filter is free from clogs and debris. Additionally, cleaning the interior of your dishwasher and opting for a high-quality detergent may improve cleaning results.
Keep your Whirlpool® Dishwasher in top shape
If you have a Whirlpool® Dishwasher, visit the Whirlpool brand parts and accessories site to easily find the right part to help keep your dishwasher working like it should.
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting tips and there’s still an issue with your dishwasher not cleaning, you may need to call in a professional technician. Visit Whirlpool® Customer Care to schedule a service appointment.
1-Hour Wash Cycle
Clean dishes in half the time
Whirlpool® Dishwashers with the 1-Hour Wash Cycle get plates, pans and glasses taken care of in just an hour
Shop for Whirlpool® Dishwashers
If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your dishwasher, the Whirlpool® Dishwasher lineup offers a variety of features and heavy-duty options to help clean your toughest messes and keep mealtime moving in your home.
Helping kids stay in school
Learn how Whirlpool helps end the dropout cycle by giving kids access to clean clothes through the Care Counts™ Laundry Program
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1. affresh® brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.
