Technically, a dishwasher and a washing machine serve different purposes and are not designed to be used interchangeably. While both appliances use water, detergent, and have a spinning mechanism, they are designed specifically for washing different types of items.
A dishwasher is intended for cleaning dishes, glassware, and kitchen utensils. It uses higher water temperatures and more aggressive detergents to remove food particles, grease, and bacteria from these items. It also has a different interior configuration, with racks and compartments optimized for loading dishes efficiently.
On the other hand, a washing machine is designed to handle various fabrics and textiles, like clothing, bedding, and towels. It uses different water temperatures and gentler detergents to clean these items effectively without causing damage. The washing machine's drum and agitator are specifically designed to handle fabrics, while a dishwasher's mechanism may be too rough and unsuitable for washing clothes.
Attempting to use a dishwasher to wash clothes could potentially damage both the appliance and your clothes. The water temperature, detergent, and cleaning action may not be appropriate for fabrics, leading to ruined clothing or a malfunctioning dishwasher.
If you need to do laundry and don't have access to a washing machine, it's best to use alternative methods like handwashing in a sink or bathtub or seeking laundry facilities in your local area, such as laundromats or shared laundry rooms in apartment buildings.