The way cutlery is placed in the dishwasher has a direct impact on the final washing result. The question is old and spans generations, dividing opinions in many kitchens, but domestic cleaning experts point to a clear answer.
According to Notícias ao Minuto, the topic gained attention again after technical analyzes on the circulation of water and detergent inside machines, showing that an apparently irrelevant gesture can compromise the entire washing cycle.
Although many follow the habit learned at home or opt for a solution for safety reasons, the truth is that the position of the cutlery influences the effectiveness of cleaning. This is not a matter of personal preference, but rather the way water reaches surfaces where food residue accumulates.
According to the North American website Real Simple, which specializes in domestic organization, cleaning and well-being, the problem arises when the arrangement of the utensils prevents the direct action of water. If the cutlery is too close together or misoriented, washing becomes less effective, even when the machine works correctly.
For Lindsay Droz, co-founder of the L’AVANT Collective brand, dish storage is a decisive factor. If the water does not reach the right surfaces due to the way the basket is filled, the dirt remains, regardless of the power of the program chosen.
In the case of forks and spoons, the recommendation is simple. The functional part must face upwards, which means placing the handles downwards. According to Kristi Lord, also co-founder of L’AVANT Collective, this position exposes areas where more waste accumulates to a greater amount of water and detergent. This reduces the likelihood of food remains getting stuck in the basket and sticking back to the utensils during washing.
This care also helps to avoid stains and dry residue, especially in shorter cycles or when the machine is very full.
Why knives don’t follow the same rule
Knives are the exception. In this case, the blade must face downwards. The main reason is not related to washing effectiveness, but to safety. When removing clean dishes, the risk of cuts is significantly lower when the blades are not exposed.
This recommendation applies especially to table knives and larger knives, which are more difficult to handle safely when placed with the blade upwards, especially in machines without individual compartments.
The space between the cutlery also counts
In addition to correct guidance, there is another aspect that is often ignored. Cutlery should be placed with some space between them, preventing them from fitting together or overlapping. This separation allows water to circulate freely and the detergent to act evenly on all surfaces, reducing the formation of stains.
When utensils are still dirty after washing, experts advise leaving them to soak for a few minutes before placing them in the machine, helping to soften stubborn residues.
Wooden spoons, soup ladles or spatulas should not be placed randomly. Longer utensils should be positioned so that they do not interfere with the water sprinklers. In many cases, the top shelf, next to the glasses, is the most suitable option, ensuring sufficient space and avoiding blockages.
In the end, according to , small adjustments in the way the dishes are organized make a real difference in the washing result and help to avoid repeated frustrations when tidying the kitchen. A simple detail, but with a direct impact on everyday life.
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