The dishwasher is an indispensable household helper. But to save water, extend the appliance's lifespan, and always get perfectly clean dishes, there are a few simple yet effective tips. Here's how to get the most out of your dishwasher.

1. Proper loading for better cleaning

To ensure the dishes are completely clean, they should be arranged correctly:

• Arrange plates and bowls at a slight angle so that the water can drain away easily.
• Remove large food scraps beforehand, but skip the pre-rinsing – modern machines and cleaners can easily handle light soiling.
• Arrange cutlery in a mixed order (handles facing down and up) to achieve optimal washing results.
• Place delicate glasses on top, large pans and pots on the bottom.

2. Select the correct wash program

Not all dishes need the most intensive cycle. Here's how to save water:

• Eco program : Ideal for normally soiled dishes – saves water, but takes longer.
• Intensive program : Perfect for heavily soiled pots and pans.
• Short program : Suitable for lightly soiled dishes, but often with higher water consumption.

3. Regular cleaning of the dishwasher

To ensure the dishwasher remains efficient in the long term, it should be maintained:

• Run a cleaning program with machine cleaner once a month.
• Clean filters, spray arms and seals regularly to prevent deposits and odors.
• Keep an eye on the salt and rinse aid levels and refill in good time.

4. Optimize water consumption

A dishwasher already saves water compared to washing dishes by hand, but the following tricks can make it even more efficient:

• Only rinse full loads to avoid wasting water.
• Use the hot water connection if the dishwasher is designed for it – this saves heating energy.
• Use night-time electricity tariffs if cheaper electricity rates are available.

5. Use the right cleaning agents

Not all tablets and powders are created equal. Important points to consider when choosing:

• High-quality combination tablets already contain salt and rinse aid.
• Powders and separate additives allow for more individualized dosing.
• Environmentally friendly products avoid unnecessary chemicals and are often just as effective.

Conclusion: Small adjustments with a big impact

Using your dishwasher efficiently not only protects the environment and your wallet, but also ensures that your dishes always stay clean and hygienic. By loading it carefully, selecting the right program, and regularly maintaining the machine, you can save water in the long run and extend the appliance's lifespan.