How to use your dishwasher wisely

Tips for clean dishes and great dishwashing results

Clean dishes and an energy-efficient wash cycle? You can achieve both by loading the dishes correctly, selecting the right wash cycle, and using the appropriate products. Learn how to get the most out of your dishwasher, maintain it properly and easily solve minor dishwashing problems.

In the dishwasher or by hand?

How energy-efficient a dishwasher is depends, among other things, on the amount of dishes, water and energy consumption, and the wash temperature. Under comparable conditions, a modern, fully loaded dishwasher can use less energy than washing by hand. It’s best to run the dishwasher when it’s full and—if the dishes aren’t too dirty—select the Eco cycle.

On the topic of energy consumption, we recommend the “Forum Waschen” page from the German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery, and Detergent Association (IKW).

What does the dishwasher need?

Three products are essential for good results: dishwasher detergent, regeneration salt, and rinse aid. They serve different purposes and complement each other.

Dishwasher detergent powder or tabs clean dishes and remove grease and food residue. Powder can be measured out according to the load size and how dirty the dishes are; tabs are conveniently pre-measured.
Regeneration salt supports the dishwasher’s water softening system. It reduces the amount of calcium in the water and helps prevent limescale buildup. Be sure to use only special dishwasher salt—not table salt, as additives in table salt can damage the water softening system.
Rinse aid helps the water drain more easily and reduces water spots and residue during drying.

Tip: Eco-certified tabs are often what are known as “MONO” tabs—they contain only cleaning agents and should therefore always be used in combination with regenerator salt (dishwasher salt) and rinse aid.

AlmaWin offers dishwasher tabs, rinse aid, and dishwasher salt. In addition, the AlmaWin Dishwasher and Washing Machine Cleaner helps remove buildup and grime from the appliance.

ALMAWIN'S DISHWASHING PRODUCTS

Adjusting water hardness correctly

Water hardness affects how the water softener and rinse aid dosage should be adjusted. Check with your water supplier to find out the local water hardness and follow the instructions in your dishwasher’s user manual. Be sure to check whether the settings are still correct, especially after purchasing eco-certified products or switching dishwashing detergents. Also, check the salt and rinse aid indicators regularly.

Select the right dishwashing cycle

The eco-cycle usually takes longer, but is designed to conserve energy. It is suitable for normally soiled dishes, unless the user manual specifies otherwise.

For dishes that are very greasy or have dried-on food, a more intensive or longer cycle may be appropriate. Short cycles are better suited for lightly soiled dishes, such as cups that have just been used. Choose the cycle based on the level of soiling and the type of dishes.

Loading the dishwasher properly

To ensure that the water reaches all surfaces, the arrangement is key:

Arrange the bowls and pots so that they are not too close together and the water jets can reach them easily.
Make sure the spray arms can rotate freely and are not clogged.
Do not block the dispenser compartment with large dishes.
Place light parts so that they cannot be knocked over by the water jet.

You should remove any large food scraps. A thorough pre-rinse under running water is usually not necessary.

After the wash cycle

If your dishwasher doesn't have an automatic drying system with a vent, it may help to leave the door slightly open after the cycle ends or to hang a clean dish towel inside the open door. Be sure to follow the recommendations in the user manual.

Empty the lower rack first—that way, less water will drip from above onto the dishes that are already dry.

Maintain your dishwasher regularly

A clean dishwasher is important for good cleaning results. Clean the door seals and the inside of the door regularly, especially around the hinges. Also, remove the filter and clear out any food scraps. For a thorough cleaning, you can use the AlmaWin Dishwasher and Washing Machine Cleaner according to the package instructions. How often a deep clean is needed depends on how frequently the machine is used and how dirty it gets.

When things go wrong: Common dishwasher problems

White residue on dishes or inside the vehicle

It may be limescale. Carefully test an inconspicuous spot with a cloth and a little vinegar or lemon juice: If the buildup comes off, it’s likely limescale. Then check the water hardness setting as well as the salt and rinse aid levels. Use only a suitable product to descale the dishwasher and dishes, and follow the product’s instructions.

A residue that cannot be removed with vinegar or lemon juice

In that case, limescale isn't the only possible cause. If you recently added salt, check to see if the salt container is closed properly. A salt deposit can be removed by running a rinse cycle without detergent. If the deposit persists, consult the user manual or contact the appliance manufacturer's customer service for troubleshooting assistance.

White water spots on glasses or cutlery

Check to see if the rinse aid or salt needs to be refilled. Also check the rinse aid dosage and the water softener settings according to the user manual.

Bluish or iridescent streaks on glass

Using too much rinse aid could be a possible cause. Gradually reduce the amount and see what happens.

Which products work best for your dishwashing routine?

AlmaWin Dishwashing tabs: a convenient, pre-measured alternative. Always use in combination with rinse aid and dishwasher salt.

AlmaWin Rising agent: helps with drying and reduces water stains.

AlmaWin Salt for dishwasher: supports your machine's water softener.

AlmaWin Dishwasher and washing machine cleaner: for regular cleaning of the device.

AlmaWin dishwasher products are phosphate-free, chlorine-free, GMO-free, free of microplastics, vegan, and eco-certified with ECOCERT® or Ecogarantie®.