How to Dry Dishes in Whirlpool Dishwasher: Quick & Spotless Tips

To dry dishes in a Whirlpool dishwasher, use the ‘Heated Dry’ option. Ensure items are properly spaced for airflow. For plastic items, use ‘Extended Dry’ or open the door after the cycle to air dry. Check your model’s manual for specific features.

Choosing the Right Cycle for Drying

Understanding Whirlpool’s Drying Cycles

Whirlpool dishwashers come equipped with multiple drying options designed to accommodate different types of loads and preferences.

The ‘Heat Dry’ option uses a heating element to speed up evaporation, leaving your dishes dry and ready for storage. For those who prefer an energy-saving method, the ‘Air Dry’ option allows dishes to dry naturally without additional heat.

Some models also feature an ‘Extended Dry’ option, which provides extra drying time for items that tend to retain moisture, like plastics.

Benefits of Specific Drying Cycles

Choosing a drying cycle like ‘Heat Dry’ can offer sparkling results, especially for glassware and heavily soiled items.

The ‘Extended Dry’ cycle, on the other hand, is particularly beneficial for mixed loads that include plastic containers, ensuring they come out dry without water spots or residue.

Each cycle is designed to provide the best drying performance for the load you’re washing.

Selecting the Optimal Drying Cycle

To select the best drying cycle, consider the items you’re washing. For everyday dishes, the standard ‘Heat Dry’ cycle is effective.

For mixed loads with plastic or non-standard items, ‘Extended Dry’ might be the better choice. Always refer to your Whirlpool dishwasher’s manual for specific cycle recommendations and guidelines.

Preparing Dishes for Effective Drying

Maximizing Air Circulation with Proper Loading

For dishes to dry efficiently, air must circulate freely throughout the dishwasher. Ensure that you’re not overcrowding and that there’s enough space between dishes.

Face the dirtier side of plates towards the spray arms and angle cups and bowls downward to prevent water pooling.

Strategic Placement for Spacing and Angling

Position dishes in a way that allows them to drain properly. Plates should go on the bottom rack, vertically aligned, while glasses and less sturdy items should be on the top rack. Avoid nesting spoons or stacking items, as this will trap water.

Tips for Plastic and Delicate Items

Plastic items have a tendency to hold onto moisture, so they should be placed on the top rack where the heat isn’t as intense. For delicate items, use a gentle cycle and consider hand-drying to prevent damage.

Enhancing Drying Performance

The Role of Rinse Aid in Drying

Rinse aid is a key component in achieving spotless and dry dishes. It breaks down the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread thinly and evaporate quickly. This not only accelerates drying but also leaves your dishes without water spots or streaks.

Maintaining Dishwasher for Optimal Drying

Regular maintenance of your dishwasher is crucial for effective drying. Clean the filter monthly to prevent food particles from clogging the system, and inspect the spray arms to ensure they’re not obstructed.

A clean dishwasher means better circulation and heating, which leads to drier dishes.

Additional Steps for Dishes Not Fully Dry

If you find your dishes are still damp post-cycle, there are a few tricks you can try. Leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after the cycle to let steam escape and air circulate.

If time is of the essence, quickly towel drying can also be effective, especially for flatware and glassware.

Incorporating these strategies not only helps ensure your dishes come out of the Whirlpool dishwasher dry but also extends the life of your appliance and conserves energy.

With a little know-how and routine care, you can enjoy the convenience of dry, ready-to-use dishes after every wash.

FAQs About Drying Dishes in Whirlpool Dishwasher

How do I activate the drying feature on my Whirlpool dishwasher?

To activate the drying feature, select the ‘Heated Dry’ option on your Whirlpool dishwasher before starting the cycle.

What should I do to dry plastic items in a Whirlpool dishwasher?

For drying plastic items, use the ‘Extended Dry’ option or open the dishwasher door after the cycle to let them air dry.

Is it possible to improve the drying of dishes in my Whirlpool dishwasher?

You can improve drying by ensuring items are properly spaced for airflow and using rinse aids or the ‘Extended Dry’ feature if available.

How can I ensure proper airflow for drying dishes in my Whirlpool dishwasher?

Arrange dishes with enough space between them to allow air to circulate freely, avoiding overcrowding the racks.

Should I leave the dishwasher door open after the cycle to dry dishes?

Yes, for non-plastic items, you can open the door slightly after the cycle to release steam and help the dishes air dry faster.

Final Thoughts

Maximizing the drying efficiency in a Whirlpool dishwasher involves selecting the ‘Heated Dry’ option and spacing items to promote airflow.\

For plastics, ‘Extended Dry’ is beneficial, or alternatively, opening the door post-cycle can aid in air drying. Always consult the specific model’s manual for tailored features designed to enhance drying performance.

Useful Resources

• https://news.umich.edu/fighting-climate-change-at-the-sink-a-guide-to-greener-dishwashing/
• https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/asset/document/Whirlpool%20Comments%20-%20ENERGY%20STAR%20Version%207%20Dishwasher%20Draft%202%20Specification%20%281%29_0.pdf
• https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/148829/Porras_Gabriela_Thesis_Life?sequence=1