Dishwasher Cleaning Hacks: How to Get Spotless Dishes

I've got some simple yet effective dishwasher cleaning hacks that can solve the typical dishwasher issues. If you've ever faced the frustration of your dishes coming out of the dishwasher still wet or covered in water spots, you're not alone.


In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll show you how to make your dishes come out completely dry and spot-free. All you need are a few supplies and a little patience. Let's get started!

Tools and materials

  • Dishwasher
  • Dishtowel
  • Rinse aid (read your dishwasher's manual for specific recommendations)
  • Your dirty dishes
dishwasher cleaning hacks, Adding rinse aid to the dishwater
Adding rinse aid to the dishwater

Step 1: Add Rinse Aid to Your Dishwasher

Check your dishwasher for a designated compartment to add rinse aid. This is usually a small, labeled container inside the dishwasher door.


Open the rinse aid container and fill it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be careful not to overfill or spill it, as it can be quite concentrated.

dishwasher cleaning hacks, Loading dirty dishes
Loading dirty dishes

Step 2: Load Your Dirty Dishes

Load your dishwasher as you normally would, making sure to scrape off excess food particles and avoid overcrowding the dishwasher, which can hinder proper drying.

Step 3: Start the Dishwasher

Start your dishwasher using the desired wash cycle and settings. Make sure it's properly connected to hot water to ensure effective cleaning and drying.

dishwasher cleaning hacks, Hanging a dish towel over the dishwasher drawer
Hanging a dish towel over the dishwasher drawer

Step 4: Hang a Dish Towel Over the Dishwasher Drawer

When the dishwasher cycle is complete, carefully open the dishwasher door. Take a clean, dry dish towel and hang it over the open dishwasher drawer, ensuring it covers the dishes inside. Close the dishwasher door gently, allowing the towel to stay in place.

dishwasher cleaning hacks, Waiting while the dishes dry
Waiting while the dishes dry

Step 5: Let It Sit for 5-15 Minutes

Leave the dish towel in place for a duration of 5 to 15 minutes. This allows the residual heat and moisture inside the dishwasher to be absorbed by the towel, aiding in the drying process.

Step 6: Remove the Towel

After the designated time has passed, carefully open the dishwasher door and remove the dish towel. Your dishes should now be completely dry, with no water spots in sight.

dishwasher cleaning hacks, Dishwasher cleaning hacks
Dishwasher cleaning hacks

Step 7: Enjoy Spotless, Dry Dishes

Take out your sparkling clean, dry dishes and put them away, or use them as needed. Admire the beautiful results of this simple hack!


Dishwasher cleaning hacks

There you have it – a straightforward and effective way to ensure your dishes come out of the dishwasher completely dry and free from water spots.


Adding a rinse aid and employing the dish towel trick will make your daily kitchen routine much more convenient. Say goodbye to the hassle of hand-drying your dishes and hello to spotless, dry results every time.


Give these dishwasher cleaning hacks a try, and leave me a comment to let me know what you think. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the difference they make in your dishwashing experience!


Follow @home_reimagined on TikTok for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 4 questions
  • Andrea Andrea on Nov 08, 2023
    You kept saying drawer where I think you meant door. Am I correct? How do you make sure your dishes are completely covered when towel hangs over the door? I don't understand this step.
  • Happy Days Hometalker Happy Days Hometalker on Nov 08, 2023
    Do you mean AFTER your dishes are washed, you open the dishwasher and hang a towel partially inside the dishwasher and partially outside of the dishwasher?
  • Bird Bird on Nov 09, 2023
    I just had a new dishwasher installed by a plumber. I showed him this article and he said that he would not recommend this. Said when washing or drying - door must always be completely closed. With the towel in there it is not sealed/ closed correctly. Your thoughts on this?
Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 15 comments
  • Cheryl Cheryl on Nov 09, 2023
    I have actually tried this hack & it works for my dishes.
  • Pamela Gipson Pamela Gipson on Nov 10, 2023
    If you open your dishwasher about four inches after it completely finishes the wash/rinse cycles and leave it open, they will dry without a towel. It’s an old concept known as air drying.
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