Preparation 

In order for a dishwasher to work effectively, some preparation is necessary. Dishwashers clean better when the dishes are rinsed before loading. It's also necessary to pay attention to how the machine is loaded, ensuring that all dishes are accessible to the cleaning mechanisms. Usually, plates and larger items are placed on the bottom rack, with bowls and cups on the top portion of the dishwasher. Each rack has its own spray jets. There is a bin for silverware as well, usually in the door portion of the dishwasher. Finally, the detergent must be placed in the proper place before the cycle is begun.

How Does a Dishwasher Work? 

When the dishwasher starts, the bottom of the machine will fill up with a small amount of water. An element will heat this water to a temperature capable of killing germs and sanitizing. The water is then sucked into the spray jets, providing a high-pressure stream of hot water right onto the dishes. The dishwasher releases the detergent at the proper time, washing off all food particles.

Many machines are now made with a mechanism that grinds larger food particles, much like a garbage disposal. After cleaning, a rinse cycle, with no detergent, is used. Finally, the dishwasher drains of all water. If the user selected a heated dry, this is the final step of the process. To save energy, most dishwashers have the option to air-dry instead.