Dishwasher Tips
October 25th, 2006 (Cleaning)
1. Dishwashers can turn brown inside, but they’ll sparkle immediately if you run them empty on a cycle with a little citric acid. You can find this in powdered form at the supermarket, and you’ll only need a spoonful or two.
2. To keep utensils from falling through the utensil rack, line it with plastic mesh; water will still drain out, but handles and knife tips will stay put.
3. When loading your dishwasher, keep in mind the direction of the water spray. Don’t put larger pots and bowls on the bottom rack, even if they can withstand the heat - their size will block the water from reaching items on the top rack. If your larger bowls won’t fit on the top rack, hand wash them.
4. Never wash sterling silver or silver plate items in a dishwasher; you’ll ruin the finish. Wash these (and china and crystal) by hand.