If the cutlery keeps coming out of the dishwasher, the problem may not be in the appliance, but in the way it puts it. An appliance specialist reveals the five most common errors and explains what she should do to ensure more effective washing.
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26/09/2026
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Pthe silverware in the dishwasher and at the end of the cycle noticed that some were still dirty. This is due to some errors, as an appliance specialist – Amy Chernobyl – revealed to Martha Stewart's website.
Then watch out for the five most common mistakes.
1. Stack or compact excess parts
“ The biggest mistake when using dishwasher is probably the excess of dishes,” Amy noted. Too tight cutlery doesn't get very clean. “The ideal is to give enough space for water and detergent to reach each piece.”.
The solution:
Leave room between the cutlery and don't pile them up. Overfilling the basket can prevent water and detergent from reaching all parts of the utensils, making it difficult to dry thoroughly.
2. Group utensils by type
Grouping similar parts in the dishwasher is not recommended. This method can cause the utensils to fit into each other, preventing them from being completely clean.
The solution:
“Mixed forks and spoons in the basket, instead of organizing them by type”, notes Chernoff. “One of the easiest ways to prevent each other from fitting together is to mix different types of utensils instead of putting all spoons in a single section.”.
3. Ignore safety precautions
Filling and emptying the dishwasher has become such a routine task that it is done without thinking. There are knives, for example, that should be handled carefully, with types that should be washed by hand so as not to lose the cut.
The solution:
If knives are considered suitable for the dishwasher, Chernobyl recommends that safety be prioritized. “Sharpen knives shall be placed with the blade down and in a place where they can be safely removed”.
4. Putting longer ill utensils
Longer objects and utensils, such as wooden spoons, should not be placed in the basket of cutlery.
The solution:
A common mistake is to leave the longer utensils in the cutlery basket, as these can interfere with the sprinkler arm. Put them in the bars first.
5. Machine washing of silver or wood parts
Some items, such as silver parts, should not be washed in the machine.
The solution:
“ Silver pieces, silver-plated parts, wooden handle utensils and any item with delicate glued or decorative details should be washed by hand”, advises Chernobyl.
A neutral detergent and warm water is enough. Always dry to avoid stains.