How to Load & Unload the Dishwasher the Most Efficient Way

Stack Heavier Items on Bottom

I like to start bottom to top – here is my strategy on loading the bottom drawer:

1. Cooked recently? I bet there are dishes! Normally breakfast or dinner have pots and pans of some sort to clean up.
2. Per your normal routine, pick up the dishes, rinse & scrub (if necessary), and stack in the dishwasher.
3. To stack efficiently, put larger items in first. Then smaller.
4. Stack by shape, after sizing up your dishes.
5. Fill the bottom drawer first with heavy pots, pans, bog bowls, and plates.

Pro Tip: The goal is to have every item stacked so that water can touch each piece of dishware.

Stack Lighter Items on Top

To load the top drawer, read this:

1. Right after loading the bottom with heavier items, you can add lighter items to the top drawer.
2. Pick up all the cups and stack them in a row. From coffee cups to wine classes, and kid cups in between.