Why does my dishwasher leave a soapy film on my dishes?

You are either using too much detergent, or your water is not hot enough. Try adjusting the thermostat on your hot water heater. Most detergent today is concentrated. Make sure that you are using the manufacturer recommended amount.

Sometimes there is white residue on the walls of my dishwasher. Could it be the detergent I use?

Minerals from hard water sometimes may build up a white film on the interior walls and door of your dishwasher. To remove this, put two cups of vinegar in a bowl and set it on the bottom rack of the machine. Run the dishwasher through a full cycle.

How can I tell if my dishes are dishwasher safe?

Most everyday dishes, today, have a dishwasher-safe label stamped on the bottom of each dish and cup. However, some older china sets are not labeled. To check if your china is dishwasher-safe, try washing one piece, such as a saucer, for at least one month with your regular loads. If no cracks or fading occur, the set is dishwasher-safe.

Can I use my dishwasher to steam-cook food?

NEVER use the dishwasher to cook or "steam" food. This isn't a sanitary practice, and some foods can leave permanent stains and odours in the dishwasher.

How do I keep my dishwasher in top working order?

Clean the exterior and control panel weekly. (For hard water build-up, see above). Avoid putting dishes in the machine that contain paper or large particles of food. Clean the bottom filter of debris, if any, after each load use only special detergents made for automatic dishwashers. Always put the detergent in the dispenser to the indicated mark. NEVER use liquid detergent or laundry detergent in your dishwasher.

Correct loading can prevent the need for re-washing and/or damage to your dishes. Scrape large pieces of food from dishes and cookware. Load dishes and cookware so they face the centre of the tub bottom. Place knives and forks into the basket with sharp ends down. Do not crowd or stack dishes in the racks. Use only special dishwasher detergent and measure into dispenser. To prevent chipping, alternate various-size plates so they do not rub against each other. Securely place glasses between the cushioned prongs and leave room between dishes.

For safety's sake never let young children operate or play with the machine. Never leave young children unattended near an operating unit. Do not sit, stand or lean on the door or the racks. Wait until the heating element has cooled before reaching into the area below the bottom rack. Remove the door when discarding an old dishwasher to prevent accidental entrapment and suffocation.