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How to load silverware in a dishwasher
Getting a thorough clean starts with knowing how to load your dishwasher correctly. This guide covers where each type of silverware should go and how to use different basket styles to get optimal results every wash.
How do you put silverware in the dishwasher
Loading silverware correctly makes a difference in how well your silverware will get cleaned. The steps below walk you through handle direction, spacing and organization, so every utensil gets the room it needs for a thorough clean. If you want to go deeper, learn more about how your dishwasher functions before you get started.
1. Scrape off excess food
Before placing silverware in the dishwasher, scrape off any large food particles and let your dishwasher handle the rest. There’s no need to pre-rinse. If your dishwasher is less than 10 years old, pre-rinsing isn’t just unnecessary but can actually get in the way. Built-in soil sensors adjust the wash cycle based on how dirty your load is, so dishes and silverware that are too clean going in may result in a shorter, less thorough cycle.
2. Decide the correct handle direction for the silverware
Handle placement matters and it varies depending on the type of utensil. For forks and spoons, load them with handles pointing down to help ensure proper cleaning. Load knives and other cutting utensils with handles up and blades pointing down to protect your hands when unloading. For more on getting the most out of every cycle, check out this guide on how to use a dishwasher.
3. Space and mix silverware
Avoid grouping the same type of silverware together in the basket to help prevent nesting, which can keep water and detergent from reaching all surfaces, leaving utensils less than fully clean. Giving each utensil a little room can also help ensure a thorough wash.
4. Lay oversized utensils flat
Rather than loading longer items, such as dishwasher-safe spatulas or ladles, into the basket, lay them flat on an upper rack where they can't block the sprayer arm. This helps water reach all the items in your dishwasher.
5. Do a final check before starting the dishwasher
Before you close the door, take a moment to make sure silverware pieces aren’t overlapping or wedged together in the basket, since this can prevent water from reaching all surfaces. Overloading the dishwasher can also lead to inadequate water circulation and dishes that don’t come out fully clean.
Shop Whirlpool® Dishwashers with a 3rd Rack
Select Whirlpool® Dishwashers feature a 3rd Rack to help give you more room when you need it.
Loading silverware based on dishwasher layout
Many dishwashers come with a silverware basket where utensils stand upright, but some models also include a removable caddy for added flexibility or a third rack at the top designed to hold items such as flatware and other cooking utensils flat. Knowing which setup you have, and how to use it, can help give your utensils a thorough wash.
When using a standard silverware basket
Keep utensils separated and spread across the basket as much as possible when using a standard silverware basket so water and detergent can reach all surfaces. Make sure nothing extends high enough to block the spray arm, and avoid overfilling so utensils don’t end up nesting. You may also want to check out this guide on surprising items that are dishwasher safe to make the most of every load.
When using a caddy or covered basket
A silverware basket with a lid can help provide optimal spacing so water and detergent can reach each piece. If your silverware does not fit into the designated slots, many models allow you to open the lid or lift the ends and pull to remove it. Note that the removal method will depend on the type of basket your dishwasher has. Check your owner’s manual for guidance specific to your model.
When using a third rack or silverware tray
If your dishwasher has a third rack, it may provide additional space for silverware and flat utensils that can be harder to fit elsewhere. Unlike a standard basket where items stand upright, a third rack lets you load pieces flat, making it a good option for overflow items from a silverware basket or long items, like dishwasher-safe ladles and spatulas. If you are shopping for a new appliance, this dishwasher buying guide can help you determine whether a third rack model is right for your household.
Dishwashers with 3rd Rack
Load more and run less with the 3rd Rack*
*Compared to Whirlpool® Dishwashers without a 3rd level rack.
Silverware loading FAQs
Learn more about how to load utensils into a dishwasher with the answers to the common questions below.
Can I put silver-plated silverware in the dishwasher?
Some silver-plated and sterling silver flatware can be washed in the dishwasher if you avoid detergents with citric acids and do not wash it alongside stainless steel. However, hand washing is usually the better choice to help avoid tarnishing and other chemical reactions.
To learn more about which items are and are not dishwasher safe, read about common dishwasher safe symbols.
Where should you place the silverware basket in the dishwasher?
The silverware basket often sits in the bottom rack of the dishwasher. Depending on your model, it can sometimes be moved and placed in different positions on the bottom rack, and on some dishwashers it is removable, giving you more flexibility when loading larger pots and pans. Consult your owner’s manual for placement guidance specific to your model.
What should I do if silverware still comes out dirty after loading it correctly?
If silverware is coming out dirty despite being loaded correctly, check that the filter is clean and free of debris, you are using the right detergent and the spray arm is not being blocked. Adding rinse aid can also help if the problem is spots or film on dishes. Always consult a professional if the problem persists or is out of your comfort zone.
Shop Whirlpool® Dishwashers
Whirlpool® Dishwashers help make cleanup easy. Select dishwashers from Whirlpool brand feature an Adjustable 2nd Rack, Folding Tines or a 3rd Rack.
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