How to Load a Maytag Dishwasher
- 1). Scrape scraps of food or discarded items -- such as bones -- into the garbage. Skip pre-rinsing the dishes -- it wastes water and energy and can actually cause damage to your glassware during the dishwasher's cycle. According to an article in the New York Times, dishwasher detergent is designed to go after food particles. In the absence of food particles, the detergent aggressively attacks glassware, causing permanent glassware damage like cloudiness and etching.
- 2). Place mugs, glasses and small plates in the upper rack, along with dishwasher-safe plastic items. Prevent breakage by allowing glasses to rest on the rack's prongs and ensure that delicate or breakable items do not touch each other. This also reduces any clattering or excessive noise while you are running your Maytag dishwasher.
- 3). Arrange large items like baking dishes or serving platters near the rear and sides of the dishwasher. Loading large dishes along the perimeter of the rack prevents them from blocking the dishwashing detergent and water from the smaller dishes. Additionally, avoid allowing plates or dishes to overlap -- this traps food and prevents proper cleaning.
- 4). Place dishes with the dirtiest side facing down and toward the center of the dishwasher. This provides maximum exposure to the dishwasher's spray and enables the most efficient cleaning. Any items that have baked-on foods should be placed face down on the bottom rack.
- 5). Load forks, spoons and other silverware in the silverware rack located on the bottom rack. Place knives or other sharp pieces with the pointed side facing downward to reduce the risk of cutting yourself during loading or unloading. Likewise, make sure any sharp items are clear of the door seal to avoid damaging it.
- 6). Add automatic dishwasher detergent to the detergent cup located on the dishwasher door. Many Maytag models feature a prewash cycle and a main wash cycle. The prewash cycle can be used with powder or gel detergents. If you are using all-in-one tablets or another form of dishwashing detergent, follow the instructions on the product's package.