Dishwasher Cleaning Hacks: How to Get Spotless Dishes

I've got some simple yet effective dishwasher cleaning hacks that can solve the typical dishwasher issues. If you've ever faced the frustration of your dishes coming out of the dishwasher still wet or covered in water spots, you're not alone.


In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll show you how to make your dishes come out completely dry and spot-free. All you need are a few supplies and a little patience. Let's get started!

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Tools and materials

  • Dishwasher
  • Dishtowel
  • Rinse aid (read your dishwasher's manual for specific recommendations)
  • Your dirty dishes
Adding rinse aid to the dishwater

Step 1: Add Rinse Aid to Your Dishwasher

Check your dishwasher for a designated compartment to add rinse aid. This is usually a small, labeled container inside the dishwasher door.


Open the rinse aid container and fill it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be careful not to overfill or spill it, as it can be quite concentrated.

Loading dirty dishes

Step 2: Load Your Dirty Dishes

Load your dishwasher as you normally would, making sure to scrape off excess food particles and avoid overcrowding the dishwasher, which can hinder proper drying.

Hanging a dish towel over the dishwasher drawer

Step 3: Start the Dishwasher

Start your dishwasher using the desired wash cycle and settings. Make sure it's properly connected to hot water to ensure effective cleaning and drying.

Step 4: Hang a Dish Towel Over the Dishwasher Drawer

When the dishwasher cycle is complete, carefully open the dishwasher door. Take a clean, dry dish towel and hang it over the open dishwasher drawer, ensuring it covers the dishes inside. Close the dishwasher door gently, allowing the towel to stay in place.

Waiting while the dishes dry

Step 5: Let It Sit for 5-15 Minutes

Leave the dish towel in place for a duration of 5 to 15 minutes. This allows the residual heat and moisture inside the dishwasher to be absorbed by the towel, aiding in the drying process.

Step 6: Remove the Towel

After the designated time has passed, carefully open the dishwasher door and remove the dish towel. Your dishes should now be completely dry, with no water spots in sight.

Dishwasher cleaning hacks

Step 7: Enjoy Spotless, Dry Dishes

Take out your sparkling clean, dry dishes and put them away, or use them as needed. Admire the beautiful results of this simple hack!


Dishwasher cleaning hacks

There you have it – a straightforward and effective way to ensure your dishes come out of the dishwasher completely dry and free from water spots.


Adding a rinse aid and employing the dish towel trick will make your daily kitchen routine much more convenient. Say goodbye to the hassle of hand-drying your dishes and hello to spotless, dry results every time.


Give these dishwasher cleaning hacks a try, and leave me a comment to let me know what you think. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the difference they make in your dishwashing experience!


Follow @home_reimagined on TikTok for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 17 questions
  • Jan Baldwin Jan Baldwin on Sep 23, 2024
    What about the bottom rack of dishes? Very confusing!
  • Tvb146629660 Tvb146629660 on Apr 12, 2025

    Confusing. Are you using 1 towel over the dishes and another hanging from the door?

  • Jul142843426 Jul142843426 on Apr 14, 2025

    Good Morning, I appreciate the effort of this email but I cannot make rhyme or reason of what we are supposed to do to execute this hack… I feel like there are steps/details missing?

Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 93 comments
  • Haha, that’s hilarious! I love how she’s like, “That’s what the dishwasher’s for!” 😄 Definitely shows how different places have their own little cleaning quirks!

    European dishwashers don’t play! 👏🧼

  • Urf118387966 Urf118387966 on Apr 16, 2025

    Completely pointless. I run my dishwasher and dont even do a drying cycle. Just the heat alone once done dries them just fine in minutes of opening door.


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