Dishwasher detergent caps should go in the most visible place – despite what social media users may tell you.
In recent years, TikTok has seen a community form around cleaning tips, commonly referred to as #CleanTok. Since 2022, when some users suggested placing dishwasher detergent capsules in non-traditional places like the silverware basket or simply at the bottom of the dishwasher, the platform has been home to an ongoing debate about the correct way to use the capsules.
Southern Living recently examined the science behind dishwasher capsules and how they work once the dishwasher is turned on. Ultimately, the outlet concluded that TikTok might not actually know best.
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Each pod contains chemicals and cleaning agents that soften water and break down starches, proteins and stains, Southern Living reported. Maytag, the appliance company, noted in its own post on the subject that these pods are generally covered in plastic that can melt. The company said that if the plastic comes into contact with hot water too early in the dishwashing cycle, it may not work properly.
This is where the dishwasher dispenser comes in — a small container usually attached to the door holds the capsule until just the right moment, according to appliance company Bosch.
A stack of dishwasher pods on top of the dishwasher detergent dispenser.
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KitchenAid’s post on the subject states that the prewash cycle, where water washes away food residue from dishes, does not use detergent. If the pod isn’t contained in the dispenser — if, as TikTok suggested, it’s loose in the machine — it will melt prematurely.
This would leave too little detergent to properly disinfect the dishes during the rest of the dishwashing cycle.
GE also recommends sticking to the “main wash glass” in a post on its website.
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All three appliance companies agreed that pods should almost always be placed in the dispenser – but when in doubt, users should refer to their machine’s manual.
If placed anywhere else, the dishes themselves will not be damaged, but they will not be clean enough to use.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education