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Before running a dishwasher: scrape, don't pre-rinse, in 6 steps

For most modern dishwashers, scrape solids rather than repeatedly rinsing dishes under the tap, then load according to the manual.

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ENERGY STAR

Original source guidance: Before running a dishwasher: scrape, don't pre-rinse, in 6 steps

Link card to original guidance from ENERGY STAR

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ENERGY STAR advises scraping food off dishes rather than pre-rinsing under running water and recommends reasonably full loads. Older machines and certain item materials may have different manual instructions.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

0 / 6 done

1. Verify that dishes, utensils and kitchen tools are dishwasher-safe before loading.
2. Scrape off bones, pits and large food scraps into the waste bin rather than the sink.
3. For most modern machines, skip long tap-water pre-rinsing; consider the unit's rinse-hold program if dishes must sit overnight.
4. Arrange dishes without nesting them or blocking spray arms, water jets or dispenser openings.
5. Use a detergent suitable for the machine in the recommended dose; never combine different cleaning chemicals.
6. Run a reasonably full, non-overloaded load with a cycle suited to soil level, and follow the manual for drying and energy-saving settings.

Original source guidance: Before running a dishwasher: scrape, don't pre-rinse, in 6 steps

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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