How to use dishwasher pods for sparkling dishes
Using dishwasher pods is a simple step in the cleaning process that can help get your dishes squeaky clean, but adding pods the wrong way can result in a partially cleaned load grimy with residue. Read through the guide below to learn pod benefits, where to put dishwasher pods and tips for storing them.
What are dishwasher pods?
Dishwasher pods are a single, pre-measured dose of dishwashing detergent wrapped in a dissolvable plastic coating. These capsules can be filled with gel, powder or a combination of detergent types, and are typically tucked away in the detergent compartment prior to starting a load.
What are dishwasher pod benefits?
Pods offer quick and convenient dosing, but the benefits of dishwasher pods extend beyond convenience. They’ve been proven to produce better results than powder, liquid or gel detergents at reducing the amount of filming on dishes, and can even help cut down or eliminate existing film build-up over time.
How to use dishwasher pods correctly
Using dishwasher pods can help simplify your cleaning routine and contribute to sparkling clean dishes. Read the four simple steps below to learn about loading dishes, placing the dishwasher pod in the correct position, adding a rinse aid and starting the cycle.
Supplies
Dishwasher pods
Rinse aid (optional)
Step 1: Load dishes
Loading your dishwasher correctly can help you take full advantage of the dishwasher’s cleaning power. Before adding pods, load all dishwasher-safe items with their dirty sides facing the center of the dishwasher. Be sure to avoid overcrowding the racks or silverware bins, and try to angle dishes downward to help with drying and draining.
Step 2: Put one pod in the dishwasher
Dry your hands completely, then grab one pod and place it directly into the dry detergent dispenser. There’s no need to open or puncture the pod, since the plastic coating typically dissolves completely in water. Slide or press the detergent compartment lid closed until it clicks into place.
Avoid adding pods directly to the dishwasher tub or silverware holder, as this can stop pods from dissolving at the right time to effectively clean dishes. Always consult your dishwasher’s use and care guide, as well as the usage instruction on your detergent, to determine the best spot for placing pods.
Step 3: Add rinse aid
Some pods include rinse aid in their ingredients, but supplementing the cycle with additional rinse aid can help dishes dry faster and help prevent spots from developing on clean dishes.
Step 4: Start the cycle
Select cycle settings as you normally would, then press start and let the dishwasher pod get to work.
How do I store dishwasher pods?
Dishwasher pods are designed to dissolve as soon as they come into contact with liquid, so storing them in a cool and dry place can help keep them intact. Be sure to zip or snap the pods packaging shut completely and store in a secure place.
If your kitchen sink or disposal is prone to leaking, consider storing dishwasher pods in a location other than under the sink to help keep them dry.
What can I use instead of dishwasher pods?
Dishwasher pods are a popular form of dishwasher detergent, but more traditional gel and powder options are also available. These alternatives aren’t pre-measured and Consumer Reports’ latest tests of detergents found that the best-performing pods clean better than the best gels.
Can I use laundry pods in the dishwasher?
Laundry and dishwasher pods can look similar, but laundry pods should never be put in the dishwasher and vice versa. Laundry pods may include brighteners, fragrances and more that could leave residue on dishes, or create too many suds that could damage the dishwasher.
Can I make DIY dishwasher pods?
Homemade dishwasher pod recipes differ, but generally include ingredients like baking or washing soda to help eliminate grease, salt to help prevent streaks, vinegar to target germs and dish soap for added cleaning power. You can combine ingredients and pack them into a mold to dry before transferring them to a storage container.
While you may be able to make tablets that resemble dishwasher pods at home, you may not be able to mimic the plastic coating on store-bought pods that help them last on the shelf.
Explore Whirlpool® dishwashers
Whirlpool® dishwashers make it easy to fit and clean your dishes. Whirlpool® Dishwashers with a 3rd Rack let you load hard-to-fit items like large utensils and measuring spoons in the 3rd Rack so you can fit more below. Plus, select models include a Soil Sensor that helps determine how dirty dishes are and adjusts the cycle accordingly.
Get more dishwasher tips with Whirlpool
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