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Nervous about purchasing a dishwasher? Don't fret, we've got your questions answered.
(image: The Guardian)
Q: Do I need to rinse the dishes first?
A: No, just scrape off large pieces of food so that the machine doesn’t get choked.
Q:Can I use regular dishwashing liquid in a dishwasher?
A: No. You’ll need a dishwasher tablet or liquid, sold in supermarkets.
Q: How long is a wash cycle?
A: It’s 60- 90min on a regular cycle, with half-load or quick-wash options that take 30-40min to clean not-so-dirty dishes.
Q: What kinds of tableware are not dishwasher-friendly?
A: The hot water and air may cause wooden bowls to crack over time, and could damage lacquerware and glossy paint.
Q: Can I wash baby bottles and chopping boards in a dishwasher?
A: Yes, the temperature can go up to a bacteria-busting 75 deg C in a regular cycle.
Q: Can I accumulate my used dishes throughout the day and wash them all together?
A: Yes, you can first run each batch through a rinse-only cycle, then leave it in the dishwasher until you’ve filled it up. Or, you can wash each batch of dishes on a half-load programme, which uses less water than a regular cycle.
Q: Does a dishwasher need regular maintenance?
A: You only need to clear food from the filter (usually located at the base) daily, to prevent chokes.
This article was first published on Simply Her.