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9 Surprising Dishwasher Hacks You Need to Know
When it comes to dishwashers, there’s more to them than meets the eye. These household appliances can do so much more than just wash your dishes. Check out these nine surprising dishwasher hacks that will help you save time, money, and effort:
- Use your dishwasher to clean your range hood filter.
- Clean your grout and tile floors using your dishwasher.
- Disinfect your children’s toys in the dishwasher.
- Cook a delicious meal using your dishwasher’s heat cycle.
- Sanitize your makeup brushes in the dishwasher.
- Clean your gardening tools and give them a rust-resistant finish.
- Use your dishwasher to clean and deodorize sports equipment.
- Wash and sanitize your kitchen sponges in the dishwasher.
- Clean and disinfect tools and parts in your workshop.
Whether you need to get your dishes clean or you want to get creative with your household chores, your dishwasher has got you covered. Try these dishwasher hacks today and see how much more you can do with this amazing appliance.
9 Surprising Dishwasher Hacks You Need to Know
1. Use Vinegar to Clean Your Dishwasher
Your dishwasher needs to be cleaned from time to time to ensure that it continues to function properly. One of the best ways to clean your dishwasher is with vinegar. Simply pour one cup of vinegar into the bottom of your dishwasher and run a cycle with hot water. This will remove any buildup and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh.
2. Use a Magnet to Indicate if the Dishes are Clean or Dirty
If you’re tired of opening your dishwasher and not knowing if the dishes are clean or dirty, try using a magnet. Stick a magnet to the front of your dishwasher and move it from one side to the other to indicate if the dishes are clean or dirty.
3. Use a Dishwasher-Safe Container for Small Items
If you have small items, such as baby bottle caps or straws, that you want to wash in the dishwasher but don’t want to get lost, place them in a dishwasher-safe container. This will ensure that they don’t fall through the dishwasher racks and get lost.
4. Load Your Dishes Properly
Properly loading your dishwasher can make all the difference when it comes to getting your dishes clean. Make sure that your large dishes, such as plates and bowls, are facing towards the center of the dishwasher. This will ensure that water and detergent can reach them and clean them properly.
5. Use Baking Soda to Remove Stains
If you have stubborn stains on your dishes, try soaking them in baking soda and hot water before putting them in the dishwasher. This will help to remove the stains and get your dishes looking clean again.
6. Use Lemon Juice to Remove Odors
If your dishwasher has a strong odor, try running a cycle with lemon juice. Simply pour one cup of lemon juice into the bottom of your dishwasher and run a cycle with hot water. This will help to remove any odors and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh.
7. Use Dishwasher Detergent as a Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Did you know that dishwasher detergent can be used as a multi-purpose cleaner? Simply mix dishwasher detergent with hot water and use it to clean your sink, stove, and countertops. This will help to remove any stubborn stains and leave your surfaces looking clean and shiny.
8. Use a Dishwasher-Safe Rack to Wash Hats
If you have hats that need to be washed but don’t want to ruin their shape, try using a dishwasher-safe rack. Place the hats on the rack and run a cycle with cold water. The dishwasher will gently clean the hats without ruining their shape.
9. Use a Dishwasher-Safe Container to Cook Fish
If you want to cook fish in the dishwasher, try using a dishwasher-safe container. Place the fish in the container and run a cycle with hot water. This will gently cook the fish and leave it moist and flavorful.
Hacks for Cleaning Dishwasher
1. Use Vinegar
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to clean your dishwasher is by using vinegar. Simply fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar and place it in the top rack of your empty dishwasher. Start a hot water cycle and let the vinegar work its magic. The vinegar will break down any grease, grime or mineral buildup inside the dishwasher leaving it sparkling clean.
2. Baking Soda Method
Another great hack for cleaning dishwasher is by using baking soda. Sprinkle around two cups of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a hot cycle. The baking soda will help to eliminate any unpleasant odors and all the dirt and stains will be removed.
3. Clean Filters Regularly
Cleaning dishwasher filters regularly is important as it can prevent a buildup of food particles and debris in the dishwasher. Remove the dishwasher filter and give it a good scrub to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime. This will help the dishwasher to function properly and maintain the hygiene of the dishes.
4. Lemon Juice Method
Lemon juice is a natural cleaning agent and can effectively remove any mineral buildup inside the dishwasher. Simply pour a cup of lemon juice into the dishwasher and run a hot cycle. The acid in the lemon juice will remove any tough stains and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.
Conclusion
By using these simple hacks for cleaning dishwasher, you can maintain the hygiene of your dishes and reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help to keep your dishwasher running efficiently. To learn more about how to clean dishwasher effectively, visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dishwasher.
FAQs: 9 Surprising Dishwasher Hacks You Need to Know
Q: What are some surprising dishwasher hacks?
– Use your dishwasher to clean accessories like toothbrush holders, soap dishes, and shower heads.
– Use your dishwasher on the “sanitize” cycle to clean and disinfect baby bottles, toys, and even sponges.
– Clean your keyboard and other small electronics by placing them on the top rack of your dishwasher.
– Use your dishwasher to clean and sanitize plastic hairbrushes, combs, and even makeup brushes.
Q: Can I put cast iron pans in the dishwasher?
No, it is not recommended to put cast iron pans in the dishwasher as it could potentially ruin the seasoning and cause rust.
Q: Can I wash my car parts in the dishwasher?
No, it is not recommended to wash car parts in the dishwasher as it could potentially damage the dishwasher and create a hazardous situation.
Q: Can I put aluminum foil in the dishwasher?
No, it is not recommended to put aluminum foil in the dishwasher as it could potentially damage the dishwasher and cause a fire.
Q: Can I put silverware with wood handles in the dishwasher?
No, it is not recommended to put silverware with wood handles in the dishwasher as it could potentially damage the handles and cause them to split or crack.
Q: Can I put crystal glasses in the dishwasher?
It is not recommended to put crystal glasses in the dishwasher as they are delicate and can potentially break or chip during the wash cycle.
Q: Can I put plastic containers with food stains in the dishwasher?
Yes, it is safe to put plastic containers with food stains in the dishwasher, but it is recommended to rinse them thoroughly before placing them in the dishwasher.
Q: How often should I clean my dishwasher?
It is recommended to clean your dishwasher at least once a month to remove any buildup and prevent bacteria growth.
1. Clean Your Dishwasher with Vinegar and Baking Soda
- Remove any debris or food particles from the dishwasher first.
- Place a cup of vinegar on the top rack of the empty dishwasher and run a hot cycle.
- Once the cycle is complete, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short cycle.
- Your dishwasher will now be sparkling clean and odor-free!
2. Use a Dishwasher-safe Magnet to Indicate Clean or Dirty Dishes
- Place a dishwasher-safe magnet on the front of your dishwasher.
- Flip it to “clean” when you unload the dishwasher.
- Flip it to “dirty” when you load the dishwasher, so your family knows whether to add dishes or run the dishwasher.
3. Place Small Items in a Mesh Bag or Container
- Use a mesh bag or container to wash small items like baby bottle parts, lids, and small plastic toys.
- Place these items inside the bag or container and put them on the top rack of the dishwasher.
4. Clean and Deodorize Your Garbage Disposal
- Run your garbage disposal with a few pieces of lemon or orange peel after you run your dishwasher.
- This will help deodorize and clean your garbage disposal.
5. Put Aluminum Foil at the Bottom of Your Dishwasher
- Place a sheet of aluminum foil at the bottom of your dishwasher to catch any food particles or debris that may cause clogs.
- This will also make it easier to clean your dishwasher!
6. Use Vinegar to Remove Hard Water Stains
- If your dishes come out with hard water stains, soak them in a mixture of vinegar and hot water for 30 minutes before running them through the dishwasher.
- This will help remove the stains and keep your dishes looking clean.
7. Use Dishwasher-safe Silicone Muffin Cups to Separate Items
- Use silicone muffin cups to separate items like utensils, lids, and baby bottle parts on the top rack of your dishwasher.
- This will help ensure that your items get thoroughly cleaned and don’t fall through the rack.
8. Use White Vinegar Instead of Rinse Aid
- Instead of using rinse aid in your dishwasher, try adding a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle.
- This will help keep your dishes looking clean and bright.
9. Use Baby Oil to Polish Stainless Steel
- If you have a stainless steel dishwasher, use baby oil to polish it.
- Apply a small amount of baby oil to a soft cloth and wipe down the dishwasher.
- Not only will this give your dishwasher a beautiful shine, it will also help prevent fingerprints and smudges.
