Clean dishes aren’t just about having sparkling glasses or spotless plates — they’re essential for keeping your kitchen hygienic and your appliances in good working order. In a single-family rental home, how you wash dishes matters not just for convenience but also for protecting the home’s plumbing and appliances from avoidable wear and tear.

 

Whether you prefer rolling up your sleeves at the sink or letting the dishwasher do the heavy lifting, following the right practices can help you avoid clogs, odors, or costly repairs down the road. In this guide, we’ll walk you through dishwashing basics — when to handwash, how to get the most out of your dishwasher, and the little habits that keep your kitchen running smoothly.

 

Handwashing basics

 

Not every item belongs in the dishwasher. Certain materials and cookware need a gentler touch to stay in good condition.    

 

When to handwash

 

Delicate pieces such as fine china, crystal glasses, or heirloom dishware should always be handwashed to prevent chipping or clouding. The same goes for wooden items like spoons, cutting boards, and salad bowls, which can crack or warp from heat and moisture.

 

Cast iron skillets also require special care, as a dishwasher will strip away the seasoning that protects the surface and enhances flavor. Even sharp knives are best washed by hand, as machine washing can dull their edges and damage both the blades and the dishwasher racks.

 

Step-by-step handwashing

 

Start by scraping excess food scraps into the trash or compost before washing. Fill the sink or a basin with hot, soapy water, using a small amount of dish soap to cut through grease. Choose a soft, non-abrasive sponge or cloth to clean your dishes without scratching them.

 

Once washed, rinse each item thoroughly under warm water to remove any soap residue. Finally, let your dishes air-dry on a rack or towel-dry them to prevent water spots and keep them looking clean and clear.

 

Pro tip: Avoid pouring greasy water directly down the drain. Grease cools and solidifies inside pipes, leading to clogs. Instead, wipe pans with a paper towel before washing, or collect grease in a disposable container.

 

Getting the most out of your dishwasher

 

Modern dishwashers are built for efficiency, but only if you load and run them properly.

 

Scrape vs. rinse

 

The age-old debate: should you pre-rinse? For most newer dishwashers, the answer is no. Simply scrape solids off your dishes and place them inside. Over-rinsing wastes water and can even make detergent less effective because it needs some residue to cling to.

 

How to load properly

 

To load your dishwasher properly, place plates and bowls on the bottom rack, facing the center so they get the best spray coverage. Cups and glasses belong on the top rack and should always be positioned upside down to allow for proper drainage. Pots and pans also go on the bottom rack, angled so that water can reach and clean the inside surfaces.

 

As for silverware, mix forks, knives, and spoons in the utensil basket to prevent them from nesting together and ensure a thorough clean.

 

Choosing detergent

 

Stick with dishwasher-safe detergent — powders, pods, or gels are fine. Never use regular dish soap, which will create suds and potentially flood your kitchen.

 

Dishwasher dos and don’ts

 

A few small habits can make the difference between sparkling dishes and long-term appliance damage.

 

Before starting a dishwasher cycle, run the hot water at the sink so the appliance fills with hot water right away for better cleaning results. Using a rinse aid helps keep glasses clear and spot-free, while regularly cleaning the dishwasher filter ensures proper water flow and consistent performance.

 

Don’t overload the racks, as crowding prevents water from reaching every surface and can leave dishes dirty. Avoid placing wood, cast iron, or non-stick cookware in the dishwasher, as heat and detergent can cause warping, rust, or damage to coatings. And never ignore “hand wash only” labels—when in doubt, it’s always safer to wash those items by hand.

 

Remember: incorrect dishwasher use can lead to damage that renters may be responsible for.

 

Keeping the dishwasher clean

 

A dishwasher cleans your dishes, but it also needs cleaning itself to stay effective.

 

Simple Cleaning Routine

 

Keep your dishwasher in top shape with a simple cleaning routine. Start by wiping the door and seals with a damp cloth to prevent mildew from forming. Once a month, remove and clean the filter by soaking it in warm, soapy water and gently scrubbing away any residue.

 

Run an empty cleaning cycle monthly as well, using either a store-bought cleaner or a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack to remove buildup and odors. If water flow seems weak, check the spray arms and use a toothpick or pin to unclog any blocked holes.

 

Finally, inspect the drain regularly to ensure no food or debris is blocking it—this helps prevent leaks and keeps your dishwasher running smoothly.

 

These quick tasks extend the lifespan of the dishwasher and keep your dishes truly clean.

 

Avoiding drain and plumbing issues

 

A dishwasher’s performance is tied to your kitchen sink and plumbing. Treat them well to avoid backups.

 

Golden rules for drains

 

Never pour grease, oils, or fats down the drain, as they can solidify and cause stubborn clogs. Instead, collect them in a container and dispose of them separately once cooled. Before washing, take a moment to scrape plates and remove leftover food to prevent buildup in the sink or pipes.

 

If your rental home has a garbage disposal, use it carefully. Always run cold water while it’s operating, and feed food scraps slowly in small amounts to help the blades work efficiently and avoid overloading the system.

 

What not to do

 

Avoid putting large bones, fibrous foods like celery, or starchy items such as rice and pasta into the garbage disposal, as these can wrap around the blades or expand in the pipes, leading to clogs.

 

Never rely on chemical drain cleaners to fix a backup — if your sink or dishwasher isn’t draining properly, stop using it and contact your property maintenance team. Harsh chemicals can damage plumbing and may even violate your rental agreement.

 

When to call for maintenance

 

Even with the best care, appliances sometimes need professional attention. Report problems early to avoid further damage.

 

It’s time to call for maintenance if your dishwasher won’t drain and water collects at the bottom, or if you notice persistent odors even after a thorough cleaning. Leaks around the door or under the sink are also warning signs that something’s wrong. Additionally, any strange noises, sparks, or electrical issues should be reported immediately for safety reasons.

 

Reminder: As a renter, daily care is your responsibility.

 

Conclusion

 

Dishwashing may not be glamorous, but it’s an essential part of keeping your kitchen clean, maintaining your appliances in good condition, and preventing plumbing problems in your rental home. By handwashing delicate items, loading your dishwasher correctly, cleaning it regularly, and practicing safe drain habits, you can prevent issues before they start.