Properly loading silverware in your GE dishwasher is key to achieving clean results and preventing damage. Following a few simple guidelines helps ensure that water and detergent can reach all surfaces effectively.
Silverware Basket Loading Best Practices
GE dishwashers typically come with a silverware basket designed to hold various utensils. How you load this basket significantly impacts cleaning performance.
Based on common practices and the provided reference, here's how to load your silverware:
- Utilize Separators: If your basket has separators or covers, use them. Loading silverware individually or in designated slots helps prevent items from nesting together. This allows water to circulate freely around each piece, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Mix Utensil Types: To further prevent nesting and ensure even cleaning, especially if your basket doesn't have individual slots or covers, it's recommended to mix different types of items in each section of the basket. For example, place forks next to spoons or knives.
- Handle Orientation: While the provided reference doesn't specify handle orientation, general best practice for safety and cleaning is:
- Knives and Forks: Load these with handles down for safety when unloading. The tines and blades point upwards, which is typically better for cleaning.
- Spoons: Load these with handles up and down, mixed together. Loading all spoons in the same direction can cause them to nest. Mixing orientations helps keep them separated.
Tips for Optimal Loading
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid cramming too many items into one section. Overcrowding hinders water flow.
- Remove Food Debris: Scrape off large food particles before loading to prevent clogging and improve cleaning.
- Place Large Items Separately: Very large serving spoons or spatulas may need to be placed in the main racks if they don't fit well in the basket or block spray arms.
By following these steps, including using separators to prevent silverware nesting and mixing items in each section if there are no covers, you can optimize your GE dishwasher's performance for sparkling clean silverware.
