It's a domestic task that countless individuals across the UK find tedious, and now it emerges that you might have been incorrectly loading your dishwasher for years. The perennial debate concerning whether knives, forks, and spoons should be placed in the appliance facing upwards or downwards has finally been addressed by consumer experts.
The Great Dishwasher Dilemma
Specialists from the consumer champion Which? have stepped in to settle a dispute that has sparked innumerable household disagreements. The organisation noted that the seemingly straightforward act of loading a dishwasher often leads to recurring questions about the correct orientation for cutlery.
The Argument for Facing Upwards
Proponents of the 'up' method contend that positioning cutlery with the handles down and the dirty ends exposed ensures that water jets can effectively reach and clean the soiled surfaces. Which? explained that this approach also allows users to easily spot if items are nesting together tightly, which can impede water and detergent circulation, leading to subpar cleaning results.
The Case for Facing Downwards
Advocates for the 'down' method emphasise safety as the paramount concern. Sharper implements, such as knives, should be loaded with blades facing downwards to prevent accidental cuts during unloading. Additionally, this method facilitates easier and cleaner unloading, as you avoid touching the ends of the cutlery and transferring grubby finger marks onto clean items.
The Official Verdict from Manufacturers
After consulting with leading appliance manufacturers including LG, Bosch, and Beko, a consensus has emerged. The general recommendation is to place cutlery in the dishwasher facing downwards. However, Which? maintains a pragmatic stance, acknowledging that both methods can be acceptable depending on the circumstances.
The consumer champion advises a hybrid approach for optimal results. Sharper implements should always be positioned blade down for safety. For other cutlery items, an alternating pattern of up and down placement is recommended to prevent nesting and ensure thorough cleaning. While this may slightly extend unloading time, the trade-off is considered worthwhile for superior cleanliness.
Important Dishwasher Don'ts
Beyond cutlery orientation, Which? highlights several items that should never be placed in a dishwasher to avoid damage or deterioration:
- Kitchen knives, as the temperature and spray intensity can blunt blades over time
- Anything wooden
- Non-stick cookware
- Some baking trays
- Crystal or milk glasses
- Copper, aluminium, or cast-iron cookware
- Insulated coffee mugs or water bottles
- Pressure cooker lids
This guidance aims to help households achieve both sparkling clean results and maintain the longevity of their kitchenware, finally putting an end to one of the most common domestic debates.
