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Image credit: Erstudiostok/Getty ImagesHosting a meal for friends or family can be a delightful occasion, but dealing with the aftermath of dirty dishes can be a hassle. Luckily, dishwashers make cleaning up much easier.
Using a dishwasher, though convenient, isn’t always foolproof. Many of us have experienced broken dishes, warped plastics, or unsatisfactory cleaning results. To help you avoid these issues, here's a handy guide on how to select the best dishwasher setting for every load, according to expert advice.
The Best Settings for Everyday Dishes
Ceramic dishes are the go-to choice for many, and if you're washing them, the Normal cycle is usually your best bet. As David Steckel, head of product and innovation at Sears Home Services, explains, this is the standard option for everyday dishwashing. It’s perfect for lightly soiled dishes such as plates, bowls, and glasses.
On occasion, the eco-cycle may be more appropriate. According to Steckel, it’s an energy-saving choice that uses less water and operates at lower temperatures, although it may take longer than the normal cycle. This option is great for lightly soiled dishes and is a good choice for those looking to be more environmentally conscious, though not ideal for heavily stained items.
If you don't feel like pre-rinsing, a rinse-only cycle is a handy alternative. Steckel suggests it’s a great solution for removing food remnants without committing to a full wash. It’s particularly useful when you're not running a full load or when you plan to wash the dishes later.
For those dishes that have been through a serious cooking session, like pots and pans after a greasy meal, the Heavy Duty cycle should be your go-to. Steckel emphasizes that this setting is perfect for tackling tough, baked-on food, while the normal cycle is ideal for everyday dish loads.
The Best Settings for Plastic or Melamine Dishes
For those of us with young children, plastic or melamine dishes are a popular choice due to their durability. These dishes are also perfect for outdoor meals. As Steckel suggests, it’s best to place melamine and plastic items on the top rack to prevent heat from causing any warping. Then, select the Normal cycle for a thorough clean.
The Best Setting for Silicone Items
While silicone dishes aren't as commonly used by adults, they’ve gained popularity among parents of babies and toddlers for their resilience. Silicone is also frequently used in items like spatulas, cutting mats, and reusable storage bags. According to Steckel, placing silicone items on the top rack is the safest option. “Silicone mats and spatulas can typically go through a normal cycle, but avoid placing them too close to heat sources to prevent warping. If they’ve been lightly used or are clean, you can opt for the eco cycle instead.”
The Best Setting for Fine China
While hand washing fine China is the recommended method (especially for vintage pieces), you can use the dishwasher in a pinch. As Steckel notes, “For those elegant China dishes, they deserve the delicate or china cycle.” These settings offer a gentler clean to preserve your fine plates and glasses. And don't forget—only place them on the top rack. This will protect them from high water pressure and reduce the risk of chips or breakage.
When to Use the Sanitize Setting
Sanitizing your dishes isn't always necessary, but it may be worth considering if someone in your home is ill or when washing baby bottles. Delphie Juneau, senior category and product marketing manager at Hisense Home Appliances, explains, “Glass and ceramic are durable enough to handle high heat, which makes them ideal for sanitizing. However, plastic can’t withstand such high temperatures, so be sure to place plastic items on the top racks and choose the appropriate heat setting.”
What About All the Other Settings?
If you have a dishwasher that tends to be noisy, you might prefer using the quiet mode, but keep in mind it will take longer than a standard cycle. Juneau cautions, “The water pressure is less intense, so it requires a longer cleaning time to get the dishes properly cleaned.”
The air-dry option is another setting to consider. According to Juneau, it's particularly suitable for plastic, though it can take significantly longer to complete compared to other drying cycles. However, it is more energy-efficient, as she points out.
Your dishwasher may also offer additional settings that aren’t mentioned here. If you're uncertain about which one to choose, Juneau advises that, in general, faster and hotter cycles use more energy and water. Keep this in mind when making your selection.
