What To Know
- During the prewash cycle, the dishwasher sprays a low-pressure stream of hot water onto the dishes.
- If dishes have been sitting in the dishwasher for a while, prewash rinses away any detergent residue that may have dried on.
- It is recommended for heavily soiled dishes, dried-on food, or dishes that have been sitting in the dishwasher for a while.
Dishwasher prewash, an often overlooked yet crucial feature, plays a vital role in ensuring spotless dishes. It’s a preliminary cycle that prepares dishes for the main wash, making it more effective and efficient.
How Does Dishwasher Prewash Work?
During the prewash cycle, the dishwasher sprays a low-pressure stream of hot water onto the dishes. This helps:
- Remove loose food particles: Prewash removes large chunks of food residue, preventing them from clogging the filter or sticking to dishes during the main wash.
- Soften dried-on food: Hot water softens dried-on food, making it easier to remove during the main wash.
- Rinse away detergent residue: If dishes have been sitting in the dishwasher for a while, prewash rinses away any detergent residue that may have dried on.
Benefits of Using Dishwasher Prewash
Prewashing dishes offers several advantages:
- Improved cleaning performance: Prewash removes stubborn food particles, ensuring a more thorough clean during the main wash.
- Reduced filter clogging: By removing food particles before the main wash, prewash helps prevent the filter from getting clogged.
- Longer dishwasher lifespan: A clean filter reduces strain on the dishwasher’s pump and other components, extending its lifespan.
- Energy efficiency: Prewashing dishes with hot water can help the main wash cycle run at a lower temperature, saving energy.
When to Use Dishwasher Prewash
Prewash is recommended for dishes that:
- Are heavily soiled with food residue
- Have dried-on food
- Have been sitting in the dishwasher for a while
- Are made of delicate materials that may be damaged by high-pressure washing
How to Activate Dishwasher Prewash
Activating prewash varies depending on the dishwasher model. Typically, you can:
- Select a prewash cycle: Some dishwashers have a dedicated prewash cycle.
- Press a prewash button: Look for a button labeled “prewash” or “soak.”
- Adjust the wash cycle settings: Some dishwashers allow you to add a prewash to any wash cycle.
When Not to Use Dishwasher Prewash
Prewash is not necessary for:
- Lightly soiled dishes
- Dishes that have been rinsed thoroughly before loading
- Dishes made of non-heat-resistant materials
Tips for Effective Dishwasher Prewash
- Scrape off excess food: Before loading dishes, scrape off any large food particles into the trash.
- Rinse dishes if necessary: If dishes have dried-on food, rinse them briefly with hot water before placing them in the dishwasher.
- Use a prewash detergent: Some dishwashers recommend using a prewash detergent specifically designed for this cycle.
Key Points: The Power of Prewash
Dishwasher prewash is an essential step for achieving sparkling clean dishes. By removing food particles, softening dried-on food, and rinsing away detergent residue, prewash prepares dishes for the main wash and enhances the overall cleaning performance. Whether you have heavily soiled dishes or want to prolong the lifespan of your dishwasher, prewashing is a wise investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is dishwasher prewash necessary?
A: It is recommended for heavily soiled dishes, dried-on food, or dishes that have been sitting in the dishwasher for a while.
Q: Does prewash add time to the dishwasher cycle?
A: Yes, prewash typically adds 10-15 minutes to the cycle time.
Q: Can I use regular dishwasher detergent for prewash?
A: Some dishwashers recommend using a specific prewash detergent. Check your dishwasher manual for instructions.
Q: What if my dishwasher doesn‘t have a prewash cycle?
A: You can manually prewash dishes by rinsing them with hot water or using a spray nozzle.
Q: Is prewashing dishes worth the effort?
A: Absolutely. Prewashing ensures cleaner dishes, reduces filter clogging, prolongs dishwasher lifespan, and saves energy.
