Dishwasher Repair
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes Properly: Full Guide
Cloudy glasses and leftover food residue almost always trace back to spray arms, the filter, or detergent - here's how to work through each one.
A dishwasher that finishes its cycle but leaves dishes still dirty, cloudy or filmy is frustrating precisely because the machine seems to be running fine - it's just not cleaning. The good news is the usual causes are all things you can check without any tools.
Start With the Spray Arms
Take out the lower rack and spin the spray arms by hand - they should rotate freely. Check the small holes along each arm for mineral deposits or trapped food particles that block water flow. If water can't reach every part of the load evenly, some dishes will come out clean while others in the same wash don't.
Check the Filter
- Locate the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub, usually a twist-and-lift design
- Rinse it thoroughly under running water to clear trapped food debris
- A clogged filter reduces water circulation and can recirculate food particles back onto your dishes
Rule Out Detergent and Loading Issues
Confirm the detergent tablet or powder is actually dissolving and dispensing during the cycle - large items placed against the dispenser door can physically block it from opening. Also check that your kitchen's hot water is reaching the dishwasher; running your tap until it's hot before starting a cycle helps on installations without a dedicated hot water line.
When to Stop Troubleshooting
If cleaning performance stays poor after clearing the spray arms and filter, or the detergent dispenser door isn't opening properly even with nothing blocking it, or an error code appears on the display, those point to an internal fault - a wash pump, dispenser mechanism or water inlet issue - that's worth a technician's diagnosis.