To make dishes dry faster in a dishwasher, you can try the following tips and tricks:
Rinse Aid: Ensure that your dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser is filled. Rinse aid helps to reduce water spots and improve drying performance by allowing water to sheet off dishes more easily.
Use the Right Cycle: Many modern dishwashers have specific "heated dry" or "extra dry" options. Selecting these settings can help enhance the drying process by using higher temperatures during the drying phase.
Load Dishes Properly: Arrange dishes so that they have enough space between them for air circulation. Avoid overcrowding, as this can hinder the drying process by trapping moisture.
Position Dishes Correctly: Place items at an angle or slant to allow water to run off more efficiently. Positioning larger items like pots and pans at an angle can help water drain away from the surface more effectively.
Scrape Off Excess Food: Pre-rinse dishes to remove large food particles before placing them in the dishwasher. This helps prevent clogs and ensures that the dishwasher can focus on cleaning and drying, rather than dealing with food debris.
Use Hot Water: Run your kitchen sink's hot water before starting the dishwasher to ensure that it begins the wash cycle with hot water, which can help improve drying.
Crack the Door Open: Once the dishwasher's cycle is complete, open the dishwasher door slightly to allow the steam to escape. This can help dissipate moisture and improve drying.
Towel Dry: If some items are still wet after the cycle, use a clean, dry dish towel to pat them dry. This is especially useful for plastic items, which may retain more moisture than other materials.
Time Your Loads: Run your dishwasher when you know you'll have enough time to unload it promptly after the cycle finishes. Letting dishes sit inside the dishwasher for an extended period can lead to condensation and less effective drying.
Keep in mind that the drying performance of a dishwasher can vary depending on its make and model. Some dishwashers may have more advanced drying systems, like condensation drying or drying fans, which can further improve the drying process. If you find that your dishwasher consistently struggles to dry dishes adequately, consider consulting the dishwasher's user manual or contacting the manufacturer for additional advice or assistance.