How to Use Dishwasher Pods
Whoever invented dishwasher (and detergent) pods is a genius. They save us time and are so easy to use. But, ever wonder how they work, where the plastic goes when we use them, or why they don’t dissolve?
Same – it’s literally kept me up at night. Not really, but I did ask myself that question and luckily for you, I am a writer so I’ve captured these age old questions and answers down for all of us to benefit! This guide will decode all that there is to know about how to use dishwasher pods!
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How do Dishwasher Pods Work?
Dishwasher pods are a type of dishwashing detergent that comes in a pre-measured, single-use package They are designed to dissolve quickly and release their cleaning agents as soon as they come into contact with water.
The pod’s hard outer shell protects the detergent inside from moisture until it is time to use it. To use a dishwasher pod, you simply place it in the detergent compartment of your dishwasher and close.
Pods can be beneficial because they help to prevent overloading the dishwasher with detergent, which can lead to poor cleaning results. However, some people find that dishwasher pods do not dissolve as well as traditional powder or liquid detergents, and they can also be more expensive.
Where to Put Dishwasher Pods
Most dishwasher pods are designed to go in the dish detergent compartment of the dishwasher. There should be a little illustration on the compartment door that will show you where the pod goes.
If your dishwasher doesn’t have that feature, don’t worry. Just look for a spot where the water can flow freely around the pod. You don’t want it to get caught under something or blocked in by other items.
Another tip: if your dishwasher has a stagnant-water feature, be sure to activate it. This will help to ensure that the water around the pod stays fresh and doesn’t become stagnant. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your dishwasher pods work as intended and give you sparkling clean dishes.
How to Use Dishwasher Pods
Materials
- Dishwasher Detergent Pod
- Rinse aid (optional)
- Dishwasher
Instructions
Time needed: 1 minute
Dishwasher pods are a convenient and easy way to get your dishes clean. Simply pop one in the dishwasher and let it do its job. However, according to the Kitchn, don’t just toss one in your dishwasher. There are a few things you should know about using dishwasher pods to get the best results.
- Check Manufacturer’s Instructions
First, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how many dishes the pod is designed to clean. In general, one pod is sufficient for a full load of dishes. Ever wonder “Can I put this in the dishwasher?” Here is a guide to all the symbols on the backs of products that say if it is safe or not.
- Place in the Dishwasher Detergent Compartment
Second, be sure to place the pod in the main detergent compartment of the dishwasher, not in the silverware basket. This will ensure that the detergent gets dissolved and evenly distributed throughout the cycle.
- Run a Wash Cycle
Finally, be sure to run the dishwasher on a hot cycle to fully dissolve the pod and get your dishes clean and sparkly. With just a few simple tips, you can easily use dishwasher pods to get your dishes clean with minimal effort.
How to Store Dishwasher Pods
Did you know that your dishwasher pods can become stale and ineffective if they aren’t stored properly?
Here are a few tips for keeping your dishwasher pods fresh and ready to use.
- Store them in a cool, dry place. Exposure to moisture or heat can cause the pods to break down, making them less effective.
- Keep them in an airtight container. Airtight containers will help to prevent the pods from drying out and losing their potency.
- Make sure to check the expiration date on the packaging before using the pods. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your dishwasher pods will be fresh and effective for many uses.
Are Dishwasher Pods Better than Liquid Detergents?
Dishwasher pods offer a number of advantages over liquid dishwasher detergents.
- Dishwasher pods are pre-measured, so you don’t have to worry about using too much or too little detergent.
- They also dissolve more quickly than liquid detergents, so there’s less chance of them leaving streaks on your dishes.
- Dishwasher pods are less likely to leak and make a mess than liquid detergents.
While dishwasher pods do have some advantages, they also have some disadvantages. One downside is that they can be more expensive than liquid detergents.
Another potential downside is that some people find that the pods don’t clean their dishes as well as liquid detergents. Ultimately, whether dishwasher pods are better than liquid dishwasher detergents comes down to personal preference.
If you do end up using a liquid detergent – opt for a non-toxic one. Here’s a list of our favorites.
FAQ
Unfortunately, not all plastic is recyclable, and dishwasher pods are usually made of a type of plastic that can’t be recycled. Up to 75% of plastic from detergent pods ends up in the environment. And even then, it will only break down into smaller and smaller pieces, never truly going away.
So what can you do to reduce the environmental impact of your dishwasher pods? Look for pods that are made of biodegradable materials, such as PLA plastic or cellulose. These materials will break down over time, making them much more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic.
If your dishwasher pods are not dissolving, there are a few possible reasons. First, make sure that you are using the correct amount of water. If you have too much water in your dishwasher, the pods will not be able to dissolve properly.
Second, make sure that the water in your dishwasher is hot enough. The water should be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit in order for the pods to dissolve properly.
Finally, make sure that you are not using too many pods. Using more than one pod at a time can prevent the pods from dissolving properly. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your dishwasher pods will dissolve properly and leave your dishes clean and streak-free.
Most dishwasher pods are compatible with all types of dishwashers. However, there are a few exceptions. Some dishwasher pods are not compatible with dishwashers that have a pre-wash cycle.
Additionally, some pod manufacturers recommend that you do not use their product in dishwashers with hard water. If you have hard water, you may want to use a liquid dishwasher detergent instead of a pod. Ultimately, it is important to read the instructions on the packaging before using dishwasher pods in your dishwasher.
Overall, dishwasher pods are a great way to clean your dishes using less water and energy than traditional methods.
Looking for more dishwasher tips? Check out A Clean Bee’s guide to loading and unloading the dishwasher and how to clean your dishwasher and dishwasher filter.
