We’ve never heard of a couple who agree on how to load the dishwasher, so we thought we’d share the definitive guide from the geeks at dishwasher manufacturer Neff, and put an end to the arguments!

The question is, which one of you is right?

And the bigger question is will you change how you do it???

Dishwashers are one of the most hardworking appliances within a home. To ensure cleaning efficiency and for a squeaky-clean finish you need to make certain it is loaded correctly. Detailed below are some expert tips for optimum cleaning results.

How to load plates and bowls in your dishwasher

• Load large plates and bowls in the bottom basket without touching each other.
• It isn’t necessary to rinse your plates prior to loading however you should scrape off any food that could block the filter.
• Load small bowls and saucers in the upper basket, but make sure that they’re not catching on the third basket, if your NEFF dishwasher has one.
• Adjust the height of the top basket to fit in bigger items. NEFF dishwashers come with a handy Rack-Matic feature that allows you to adjust the top basket to be raised or lowered into three different positions. There is also the option to adjust the basket even when fully loaded making it easy for those last-minute additions. The top basket can also run on an angle, using two different heights either side, helping moisture drain away

How to load glassware and cups

• Fragile items like glassware should always be placed in the upper basket.
• Place tall glasses and tumblers along the sides, upside down without touching.
• Put shorter glasses towards the centre.
• Lean cups or dishes that have slightly concave bottoms at an angle, to avoid collecting dirty water.
• NEFF dishwashers have a specific glassware program for sensitive glasses. The gentle cleaning method uses low temperatures, an optimised rinse aid temperature and a longer drying phase to guarantee gentle and shiny washing and drying results.
• With NEFF’s unique Zeolith mineral assisted drying, all dishes including your prized glassware are left beautifully clean without using excessive energy.

How to load cutlery

• Depending on whether you’re using a cutlery basket or a cutlery drawer, you need to make sure each knife, fork and spoon is separated for a thorough clean.
• Make sure all items are placed face down and any parts with curves or indentations are sitting at an angle to allow water to drain.
• If using a basket, place forks and spoons handle-down, and knives handle-up.
• Don’t be tempted to remove the dividing lid to fit more cutlery in the basket, as they won’t be washed properly.

How to load pots and pans into a dishwasher

• Load pots and pans in the lower basket where your dishwasher’s most powerful spray jets are positioned.
• Ensure they don’t cover other items in the dishwasher, and you should also check for protruding handles blocking the spray arm. You can check this by giving the spray arm a spin before you start a cycle. If blocked, you can use the Rack-Matic feature to adjust the height. Special features like our Flex Baskets and Flex Drawers make our dishwashers as adaptable as possible.
• Make the optimum use of space by leaning pots and pans at an angle against the prongs.
• Place items with baked on food facedown towards the lower spray arm for a better clean.

How to unload your dishwasher

• Always empty the bottom rack first otherwise you will find dirty water that collects on the concave surfaces of mugs and glasses in the top rack will spill onto the plates, pots, and dishes below.

If you have followed these instructions and are still finding your dishes don’t come out squeaky clean, try cleaning your filter or running a cleansing cycle without any dishes in it. You will find our Dishwasher Care product works well in removing grease and limescale, keeping your dishwasher in top condition.

Finally remember it is most energy efficient and kinder to the environment to run your dishwasher with a full load for each cycle. NEFF dishwashers feature the Eco 50° programme which uses less water and electricity and works very well on full loads.