What to Do If Your Dishwasher Leaves Spots on Dishes

Nothing’s more frustrating than opening your dishwasher to find clean-looking dishes covered in cloudy spots. At Sweet Home Appliance, we often hear this concern from customers, and the good news is — there’s usually a simple fix.

1. Check Your Rinse Aid Level

One of the most common causes of spots is hard water minerals left behind during drying. Rinse aid helps water slide off dishes more easily, reducing mineral deposits and promoting spotless drying. Make sure your dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser is full and adjust the dispenser setting if needed.

2. Use a High-Quality Detergent

Not all dishwasher detergents are created equal. Low-quality or expired products may not dissolve properly or break down food and minerals effectively. Try switching to a trusted detergent brand, especially one designed for hard water.

3. Clean the Dishwasher Filter

A dirty filter can reduce wash performance and cause food particles to redeposit onto dishes. Remove and rinse the filter regularly under warm water to keep your dishwasher running at peak performance.

4. Use the Right Wash Cycle

Some cycles are better suited for delicate or lightly soiled items. For glassware or heavily spotted dishes, use a higher-temperature or heavy-duty cycle for better results.

5. Test Your Water Hardness

Hard water is often the root cause of spotty dishes. If you suspect hard water in your area, consider adding a water softener to your home or installing a dishwasher with built-in water softening technology.

6. Load Dishes Correctly

Proper loading ensures water reaches all surfaces. Avoid overcrowding and make sure glasses and bowls don’t touch, which can prevent thorough rinsing and lead to spots.

7. Run a Dishwasher Cleaner Cycle

Mineral buildup inside your dishwasher can affect performance. Run a monthly cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to remove scale, residue, and odors.

Spot-Free Results Are Within Reach

Cloudy spots on dishes aren’t something you have to live with. With a few adjustments to your routine, you can enjoy sparkling clean results every time. If your dishwasher is still underperforming after these steps, it might be time to upgrade.

Visit Sweet Home Appliance to explore dishwashers with advanced drying, filtration, and water softening technology. We're here to help you enjoy a cleaner, more efficient kitchen.