‘Correct’ way to load your dishwasher to prevent ‘racking up’ water and energy bills

Lucinda Fox, consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes, said: “I think a lot of people will be surprised to hear there is a correct way we should be filling up our dishwashers which could help us save money on our water and electricity bills.

“The placement of dishes and cutlery actually has an impact on how well they get washed and how efficiently the dishwasher runs.

“For example, you’ll want to keep all of the dishes facing inwards and place the ones with tough residue on the bottom. This all stems from how the spray arms work.

“Just like the washing machine, you’ll want to wait until it’s fully loaded before putting it on to get the most out of it. But be careful, if it’s too full, not all of the dishes will get cleaned properly.”

In order to load the dishwasher efficiently, the expert recommended seven top tips, including why Britons should avoid pre-rinsing dishes.

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Many people will give their dirty dishes a quick rinse before popping them in the appliance, but this isn’t necessary.

Remove actual bits of food to prevent the dishwasher getting blocked but rinsing plates is a “waste of water and money”, according to the expert.

Cups and bowls should also be placed on the top shelf of the dishwasher, facing down in order to be cleaned properly.

This allows the spray arms to effectively get inside the kitchenware items and clean them properly.

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Lucinda added: “If your dishwasher has a basket for the utensils, it can be tempting to put them face down as it’s easier.

“However, this prevents the water from being able to access the dirty parts of the cutlery. Knives should be loaded with the blade facing down to prevent injuries.”

If you fancy cleaning trays and pans in the dishwasher, this is possible, but it is important to make sure they are placed on the bottom shelf.

This is because trays usually have lots of tough residue like grease and this is where the water pressure is at its highest.

The expert continued: “Make sure to load from the back of the dishwasher to the front to allow you to put more stuff in but be careful not to overcrowd the dishes as this can prevent them from being cleaned properly.”

Making sure you are aware of the items which can be cleaned inside the appliance and which cannot be washed is crucial, as it can avoid disappointment when your item comes out ruined.

Whirlpool® recommended hand washing items such as big kitchen knives, fine china, wooden or silver dishes, cast iron pans as well as non-stick cookware.

Washing these items in the dishwasher may ruin the finish or cause damage, so it is best avoided.