Why is the dishwasher not cleaning properly?

Author: Raleigh Lind  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Improper loading, a clogged or blocked spray arm or a clogged filter may cause your dishwasher to perform poorly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes on the bottom rack, check for these issues and consult your owner's manual. Consult a professional for repairs if you're still having issues.

How do you fix a dishwasher that isn't cleaning well?

DIY fixes if your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes properly
  1. Clean the filter. Over time, the filter in your dishwasher can get clogged with food. ...
  2. Use the correct detergent and amount. ...
  3. Choose correct dishwasher cycle. ...
  4. Load the dishwasher properly. ...
  5. Ensure correct water temperature.

What causes a dishwasher not to wash properly?

You're dishwasher can't get your dishes clean if your water temperature is too low or if your detergent is old and ineffective. Your water supply's hardness, the water level in your dishwasher and whether or not you use rinse aid can also affect how clean your dishes get.

Why are my dishes still dirty after the dishwasher?

Comments Section
  • Too much detergent. This is really common with modern dishwashers (even a single pod can be too much for some loads).
  • Not running a dry cycle, or dishwasher exhaust vent clogged.
  • Not using rinse aid/rinse aide dispenser not functioning.
  • Hard water buildup

Why is my dishwasher leaving residue even after cleaning?

It's important to note that dishwasher residue issues aren't usually to do with the dishwasher being faulty, but are often a result of some external issue. These issues include not using an appropriate detergent, not using a rinse agent, the water not being hot enough, or the water being too hard.

Dishwasher not cleaning properly? Try these tips

How to deep clean a dishwasher?

How to deep-clean a dishwasher – top tips from the experts
  1. Empty it out. ...
  2. Clean the filter. ...
  3. Clean the spray arms. ...
  4. Clean around the door. ...
  5. Wipe down the control panel. ...
  6. Check the salt and rinse aid levels. ...
  7. Clean the inside. ...
  8. Deodorise with bicarb of soda.

Why is soap still in the dishwasher after the cycle?

If you have dishwasher detergent remaining in the soap cup after the end of a wash cycle, it often means water is not being directed into the detergent cup or that the water temperature is too low.

Why are my cups still dirty after dishwasher?

Also, you may want to check that the spray arms are not blocked. To do so, run some water through them to see if any of the small holes are compromised by dirt and food debris. If they are, simply use a toothpick to clear them. Next, give the filter a wash to ensure that the dirty water can drain away properly.

How can I get my dishwasher to clean dishes better?

  1. Pre-Heat the Water. ...
  2. Knock Off Excess Food. ...
  3. Load the Dishes Properly. ...
  4. Use the Best Dishwasher Soap. ...
  5. Use the Soap Dispenser. ...
  6. Use the Proper Cycle for the Load. ...
  7. Use a Longer and Hotter Cycle. ...
  8. Install a Water Softener of Whole House Filter.

How do you unclog a dishwasher?

A mixture of equal parts baking soda and vinegar may unclog dishwasher drains. Pour the solution into the basket at the bottom and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, pour hot water down the basket and run the rinse cycle.

Why is my dishwasher not finishing the wash?

If you find your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, it could be due to several reasons, including a malfunctioning door latch, a defective control board, or even a power interruption.

How long should a dishwasher last?

However, dishwashers don't last forever. The life expectancy of a dishwasher is about 10 years, according to manufacturers surveyed by Consumer Reports.

What is the most common thing to break on a dishwasher?

Door Latch and Handle:

The door latch and handle are among the most frequently used components of a dishwasher. Frequent opening and closing can lead to wear and tear, causing these parts to break. Additionally, if the door isn't properly aligned or closed forcefully, it can strain the latch mechanism.

Why is my dishwasher making noise but not cleaning?

If your dishwasher is filling up, but not cleaning; the first thing to do is to check for sounds! A humming noise coming from the dishwasher could be a sign that broken glassware may be blocking the motor. Here we list what you need to do in order to check for possible blockages: Safety First!

Why are all my dishes still wet after dishwasher?

There are several reasons your dishwasher may not be drying your dishes properly: You're loading the dishes incorrectly. You chose the wrong drying cycle setting. You didn't add rinse aid.

How to descale a dishwasher?

Pour 2 cups (500 mL) of white vinegar into a glass measuring cup or other dishwasher-safe container and place upright in the lower rack. Run a normal cycle with the heat dry option turned off to clean the inside of your dishwasher. Do not use detergent.

Why are my cups still stained after the dishwasher?

You may be loading your cups and glasses incorrectly or overloading your dishwasher. Make sure all your items are tilted properly and that they're not touching each other or the moving parts of the dishwasher.

Why aren't my dishes getting clean in the dishwasher?

Improper loading, a clogged or blocked spray arm or a clogged filter may cause your dishwasher to perform poorly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes on the bottom rack, check for these issues and consult your owner's manual. Consult a professional for repairs if you're still having issues.

How do I know if my dishwasher has a self-cleaning filter?

These are usually noisier because they have grinders to get rid of food, but don't need as much attention. You can check if your dishwasher has one by looking at the bottom of the dishwasher. If there is a plastic grid or holes at the base covering the filter, you probably have a self-cleaning filter.

What happens if you use too much rinse aid?

Using too much rinse aid with soft water will leave a residue in the dishwasher tub after running a cycle. Refer to the image below. Reduce the rinse aid setting to eliminate the rinse aid residue.

Why is dishwasher dirty after a wash?

Check water temperature: Set your water heater to at least 120°F (49°C) to ensure your dishwasher has the hot water it needs for effective cleaning. Inadequate water temperature can lead to poor cleaning results and a dishwasher leaving dishes dirty.

Why is my dishwasher running but soap remains inside it?

A soapy film can be caused by using too much detergent, hard water, or a malfunctioning rinse aid dispenser. Why is my dishwasher running, but soap remains inside it? If soap remains inside, it could be due to a clogged dispenser, insufficient water pressure, or a problem with the dispenser's release mechanism.

Previous article
What is the ideal washing machine spin?
Next article
What is the minimum concrete cover for a footing?