If your dishwasher leaves chunks of food on your dishes, it can be a cause for concern from both a hygiene and functionality perspective.
From a hygiene standpoint, leaving chunks of food on dishes can create an environment for bacteria to thrive. Bacteria can grow rapidly in the presence of food particles, especially in a warm and moist environment like a dishwasher. If dishes are not properly cleaned, harmful bacteria and pathogens can remain on the surfaces, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses when you use those dishes for meals.
From a functional standpoint, a dishwasher that doesn't clean dishes thoroughly may not be operating as it should. There could be various reasons for this issue, such as a clogged or malfunctioning filter, a faulty spray arm, or improper loading of the dishes. An inefficient dishwasher may not reach the proper cleaning temperature or water pressure required to remove food particles effectively.
To address this issue and ensure your dishwasher is working correctly:
Check and clean the filter: Most dishwashers have a filter that traps food particles. Over time, this filter can become clogged, affecting the dishwasher's performance. Clean the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inspect and clean the spray arms: Make sure the spray arms are free from debris and can rotate properly to distribute water evenly throughout the dishwasher.
Load dishes properly: Ensure that dishes are loaded correctly, with enough space between them for water and detergent to reach all surfaces.
Use a high-quality detergent: Using a good dishwasher detergent designed to remove food residues can improve cleaning performance.
Check water temperature: Verify that your dishwasher is reaching the appropriate water temperature for optimal cleaning. Hot water is essential for dissolving grease and food residues.
If you've tried these steps and the dishwasher still doesn't clean effectively, it may be time to consider professional maintenance or repair. An inefficient dishwasher can be a health concern, as it increases the risk of bacterial contamination and foodborne illnesses. Regular maintenance and proper use can help ensure your dishwasher keeps your dishes clean and safe for use.