There are many different kinds of dish washers, and they all require different products to work properly. European dishwashers run longer and quieter than our American dishwashers; the European dishwashers also use less water and energy
Salt is one of the products many European dishwashers use. In Europe, water seems to be much “harder” (containing more Calcium and Magnesium) than in the US, so ion exchangers are in every dishwasher in Europe. The Calcium and Magnesium can cause a buildup in your dishwasher causing dishes to not dry or your dishwasher to use more energy to dry the dishes. European dishwashers don’t use heat to dry their dishes, they use condensation (steam) to dry the dishes. Basically, the hot water sticks to the stainless steel inside of the dishwasher which is why it is important to use salt in your dish washer. Do not use table salt; there is special salt just for dishwasher. Also, “All in one” tabs do not use salt, they use phosphates (bad for the environment) to soften water or zeoliths.
Tips and reminders on keeping your dishwasher clean.
- There are many parts that need to be cleaned in your dishwasher. European dishwashers use different systems to trap food. They’re like a strainer for your dishwasher. They collect the small bits of food some people leave on their dishes. This food gets trapped in the strainer, you should clean and check this area regularly. It’s very simple and easy to clean… just remember to check it.
- To help prevent mold in your dishwasher, make sure it is dry before you close it. Make sure you check the strainer and other areas which may collect/hold water. You can use a towel to dry out these area. You can also keep your dishwasher open letting the air dry it out. If you don’t have a lot of room in your kitchen to leave the dishwasher wide open you can open the dishwasher placing an object keeping the door from shutting all the way, I use a wooded spoon.
Look up your dishwasher model online to find the manual. If you can’t find the manual in English for your dishwasher try using google translate or talking with one of local neighbors for help.
So glad I found you! I have been cleaning my machine at least each month, although I only use it for my husband and myself. I did NOT know I could remove the water sprayers before watching your video today! Also, I prefer to use vinegar in the cup instead of the clear rinse chemical. Works just great! Before we leave on vacation I pour some vinegar into that drain hole. No problems with mold! Clean and fresh for the next use!
Thanks for your video! I am a new subscriber as of today!
Kathleen
Kathleen,
You are very welcome. I to use vinegar as my rinsing ad. I have many others videos and great information that can help you adjust to Europe. One of the most popular is my oven cleaning tips. If there is anything you would like to learn more or if you have some helpful tips I would love to hear about them. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Sugin Musgrave
Sugin Musgrave
Thank you, THANK YOU for your help With my dishwasher!! We recently arrived and I was lost and confused about how to operate it. Your video was super helpful to start with and then the advice you offered made my dishwasher (and myself) super happy! Yay! No more constant hand washing of dishes! You rock!!!
You are very welcome and I am happy to have helped. Don’t forget to check out some of my other help blog/videos like”Homemade oven cleaner that rocks!” , How to get your money depost on can and bottles”,Bleeding your radiator and many more. I am working on more helpful blog/videos and I love getting request for more idea that can help you and others. Again it was great hearing from you and happy to have helped!
This was very helpful. Thank you. Do we not need dish detergent in these machines? Just a rinsing agent and salt?