The Wirecutter Show

Dishwasher Disputes, Settled

44 snips
Jan 15, 2025
Andrea Barnes, a Wirecutter staff writer with a knack for large appliances, joins the discussion on maximizing dishwasher efficiency. She tackles common household conflicts over dishwashing habits, humorously contrasting the meticulous 'white glovers' with the chaotic 'raccoons.' Listeners learn effective loading techniques, the best detergents, and insights into cleaning and maintaining dishwashers. Andrea also sheds light on how modern dishwashers outperform hand washing in efficiency and sanitation, making a strong case for their indispensable role in our kitchens.
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INSIGHT

How Dishwashers Work

  • Dishwashers don't fill completely with water like a bathtub.
  • Instead, they use a small amount of water recirculated throughout the cycle.
ADVICE

Why Use a Dishwasher?

  • Use a dishwasher instead of hand-washing to save water and for better sanitation.
  • Modern dishwashers use 3-6 gallons per cycle, while hand-washing uses more.
ADVICE

Skip the Pre-Rinse

  • Scrape food scraps off dishes, but don't pre-rinse before putting them in the dishwasher.
  • Modern detergents need some food soil to work effectively and avoid damaging dishes.
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