Dishwasher Etiquette: The Correct Orientation for Silverware
Wondering about the right way to load silverware in your dishwasher? The age-old question of whether to point the handles up or down has been a topic of heated discussion. We reached out to a few cleaning experts to share their thoughts on the matter and uncover the truth behind the silverware-loading saga.
Up, Up, and Away: Simplicity and Safety
Michael Bogoyavlensky, CEO of Cleaning Express, and his team of pros advocate for loading silverware with the handles pointing up and the usable end pointing down. This way, unloading the dishwasher becomes a breeze - the handles offer an easy grip without requiring you to touch the dirty end. Plus, it ensures better hygiene as you won't contaminate the utensil when you pick it up. And if you value safety over the perfect cleaning job, this method is your winner, as it reduces the risk of being pricked while unloading.
Gimme a Clean: Maximum Results, Minimal Effort
If you're all about getting the best clean possible, Chris Willatt from Alpine Maids suggests positioning your silverware with the handles down and the eating surface side facing up. This orientates the utensils so the sprayers and detergent hit the eating surfaces more accurately, resulting in pristine, food-free outcomes. Placing silverware handle-up may lead to less pressure and, as a result, unclean utensils, as the water and detergent will have to travel through the dishwasher caddy.
SMEG's Take: A Balanced Approach
Mattia Sala, product manager at SMEG USA, recommends silverware handles should always face upward. However, it's crucial to spread out the utensils within the dishwasher's silverware caddy to avoid blocking any pressure from the water and detergent. The only exception is when it comes to knives – to avoid accidents during unloading, always lay them with the blades pointing down and the handles pointing up. If your dishwasher has an upper third rack for utensils, Sala suggests using it to store knives and cutlery safely.
Mixed is the Solution
When choosing a loading method, consider a mix of both orientations to fit as many items as possible in the dishwasher's caddy. Aim for an arrangement that allows water and detergent to reach all surfaces for optimal cleaning, while also maintaining safety standards, particularly for sharp objects like knives. Additionally, dishwashers with features like a cutlery drawer can help improve cleaning effectiveness by preventing nesting.
Silverware, Foil, and Everything Nice
Here's a pro tip from Alpine Maids: Aluminum foil is the key to a sparkling silverware collection. To use it, simply ball up a small piece and place it in the bottom of the dishwasher. The foil helps to reduce water spots and makes dishwashing a breeze.
FAQ
- What about other items in the dishwasher? Load bowls and pots face-down to maximize their cleanliness.
- Rinse or no rinse? Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to pre-rinse silverware (or other dishes) before putting them in the dishwasher. In fact, pre-rinsing could waste more water and make your life less convenient. Embrace the hands-off approach and let your dishwasher do the hard work.
- Michael Bogoyavlensky, CEO of Cleaning Express, suggests loading silverware with the handles pointing up and the usable end pointing down for ease of unloading and better hygiene.
- Chris Willatt from Alpine Maids proposes positioning silverware with the handles down and the eating surface side facing up for maximum cleaning effectiveness.
- Mattia Sala, product manager at SMEG USA, recommends keeping silverware handles facing upward and spreading out the utensils within the dishwasher's silverware caddy, with an exception for knives.
- To maximize cleaning effectiveness and safety, consider a mix of both orientation methods and distribute the silverware evenly within the dishwasher's caddy.
- Alpine Maids advises using a small ball of aluminum foil at the bottom of the dishwasher to minimize water spots and improve dishwashing efficiency.
