13 Dishwasher Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Dishwashers are a lifesaver in the kitchen. They can help you save time and energy when cleaning dishes. However, like any other appliance in your home, they can be dangerous if not used properly. This blog post will discuss 13 dishwasher safety tips that every homeowner should know!
13 Dishwasher Safety Tips
Every year, there are thousands of dishwasher-related accidents in the United States. These accidents range from cuts and burns to fires and electrocutions. While these accidents are minor, they can still be painful and costly. That’s why taking proper safety precautions when using a dishwasher is important. Here are 13 dishwasher safety tips every homeowner should know:
1. Always Follow The Manufacturer’s Instructions
Most modern dishwashers come with a wide range of features and options, making them more effective and efficient than ever before. However, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions before operating a dishwasher. This will help you understand how to properly operate the dishwasher and avoid potential hazards.
In addition, be sure to use the appliance only for its intended purpose, as described in the owner’s manual. Following these simple guidelines can help ensure that your dishwasher will provide many years of trouble-free operation.
2. Use Detergent Designed For Dishwashers
Dishwashers are a great time-saving appliance, but they require a little care to keep them running properly. One important thing to remember is only to use detergents or wetting agents specifically designed for dishwashers.
These products are formulated to produce the right amount of suds, and using a different type of detergent can cause the dishwasher to fill up with suds and overflow. Another thing to keep in mind is that detergents can be harmful if ingested, so it’s essential to keep them out of reach of children.
3. Do Not Wash Plastic Items Unless Marked Dishwasher Safe
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the average dishwasher uses between six and sixteen gallons of water per cycle. Therefore, washing plastic items in the dishwasher can use a significant amount of water, so it is essential only to wash them if they are marked as dishwasher safe.
Plastic items that are not marked as dishwasher safe may still be able to be washed in the dishwasher, but it is best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations first. It is generally better to hand wash plastic items to save water. However, if you put plastic items in the dishwasher, use a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals.
4. Do Not Overfill The Dishwasher
You know how frustrating it can be to load up the dishwasher only to spill water onto the floor. Not only is it a slip-and-fall hazard, but your dishes won’t get as clean as possible. This is because dishwashers need a certain amount of water to operate effectively. When you overfill them, the water has nowhere to go but out.
In addition, the dishwasher’s pump may not be able to circulate the water properly, resulting in poor cleaning performance. So next time you’re tempted to cram just one more dish into the machine, remember that less is sometimes more. Your dishes will thank you for it.
5. Do Not Use Abrasive Cleaners
If you’ve noticed that your dishwasher isn’t cleaning dishes as well as it used to, it might be time to start using a different type of cleaner. Abrasive cleaners can damage the interior of your dishwasher, making it less effective over time.
If you must use an abrasive cleaner, do so sparingly and always rinse the area thoroughly afterward. Plenty of non-abrasive cleaners on the market will better clean your dishwasher without damaging it. So save yourself some hassle and switch to a gentler cleaner today.
6. Do Not Touch The Heating Element
When operating a dishwasher, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards of the heating element. The element can get extremely hot and cause severe burns if touched. For this reason, it is best to avoid touching the element altogether. Use caution and protect your hands with thick gloves or a towel if you must touch it.
7. Be Careful When Opening The Door
When the dishwasher is used, the water inside can be very hot. Be careful when opening the door to avoid steam burns. To avoid steam burns, open the dishwasher door slowly and stand back while it opens. Use a dish towel to shield your hand from the steam if possible. If you get steam burns, run the affected area under cold water for several minutes and apply a soothing lotion.
8. Keep Children And Pets Away From The Dishwasher
Children and pets are known for their curiosity. They like to explore their surroundings and find out how everything works. Unfortunately, this curiosity can sometimes lead to accidents. One example is the dishwasher. Children or pets near the appliance, while it is in use, can easily become injured by the hot water and detergent.
To avoid accidents, it is essential to keep them away from the dishwasher. If possible, put a barrier between them and the appliance, such as a gate or closed door. You should also ensure that the dishwasher is turned off and the detergent dispenser is empty before letting them near it.
9. Do Not Tamper With the Controls
When operating a dishwasher, it is best to leave the controls alone. While adjusting the settings to get the dishes clean faster may be tempting, this can often lead to problems. For example, increasing the water temperature may seem like an excellent way to get rid of tough stains, but it can also cause damage to sensitive items like glassware.
Likewise, lowering the water pressure can save energy and result in poorly cleaned dishes. Generally, it is best to stick with the default settings and only make adjustments if specific issues need to be addressed.
10. Locate Sharp Items And Load Sharp Knives With The Handles
Dishwashers are handy appliances that can make cleanup after meals a breeze. However, it is important to use them safely to avoid injuries. When loading the dishwasher, always locate sharp items, so they will not likely damage the door seal. This will help to prevent cuts and other injuries. In addition, be sure to load sharp knives with the handles up. This will help to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
11. Do Not Abuse, Sit On Or Stand On The Door Or Dish Rack Of The Dishwasher
It is important to remember that dishwashers are not indestructible. To function properly, they must be treated with care. One of the most common ways people damage their dishwashers is by sitting or standing on the door. This can cause the hinges to become damaged or bent, making it difficult to open and close the door.
Additionally, it puts stress on the rack, which can cause it to break or bend. Finally, sitting or standing in the dishwasher can make it more difficult for the water and detergent to reach all the dishes, resulting in a subpar cleaning job. Therefore, it is important to remember to treat your dishwasher with care to prevent damage and ensure that it continues to function properly.
12. Do Not Store Flammable Materials Near The Dishwasher
Flammable materials should always be stored in a safe, dry location away from any heat source. This is especially important for appliances that use flames or heat, such as dishwashers. Dishwashers can reach high temperatures during operation, and even after they’ve been turned off, the interior can remain hot for some time.
Flammable materials could catch fire if stored too close to the dishwasher. Even something as simple as a dish towel can become engulfed in flames if stored in the wrong place. To prevent this type of accident, keeping all flammable materials away from the dishwasher is best. If possible, store them in a different room altogether. By taking this simple precaution, you can help to prevent fires in your home.
13. Do Not Repair Or Replace Dishwasher Parts Yourself
Many believe they can save money by repairing or maintaining their dishwashers themselves. However, this is not the case. Dishwashers are complex machines, and attempted repairs can often do more harm than good.
In addition, most manufacturers void the warranty if the dishwasher is repaired by anyone other than a qualified professional. As a result, it is always best to call a qualified technician if you have any problems with your dishwasher. Not only will this ensure that your dishwasher is repaired correctly, but it will also protect your investment.
Conclusion
Dishwashers are a great addition to any kitchen, but it is essential to use them safely. Following these simple tips can help prevent accidents and ensure that your dishwasher continues functioning properly. Additionally, if you ever have any problems with your dishwasher, call a qualified technician for assistance. Your dishwasher will provide years of trouble-free use with proper care and maintenance.
