![dishwasher filled with plates](cms/assets/f463d209-7eed-3eaa-9bca-c68849233f8b.jpg/dishwasher-filled-with-plates.jpg)
Dishwashers. They’re a bit of a lifesaver. But can they really get your glasses and plates sparkling clean if they’re hiding so many germs?
Here are the facts: The dishwasher was the filthiest household item we swabbed, scoring a whopping 135 out of a maximum of 250. In contrast, the kitchen bin scored a paltry 66.5.
Harbouring as much as double the bacteria as your bin, the dishwasher was the most neglected item we investigated.
According to our survey:
- 45% of Brits expect their dishwasher to last at least a decade
- 25% of those surveyed said they’d never cleaned their dishwasher
- 24% of Mancunian respondents said that they have never cleaned their dishwasher
We also looked at generational differences. Those aged 55 and above were the most confident in their cleaning abilities (88%). But, compared to 18 to 24-year-olds, they were five times less likely to clean their dishwasher after daily use.
So what’s the expert verdict?
Ian Palmer-Smith is Director of Heating and Home Emergency Services at Domestic & General. In other words, he knows a lot about appliance repairs.
“Your dishwasher can last up to 10 years, but only if you maintain and clean it regularly. As a rule of thumb, aim to clean the appliance daily. Even after every use, remove any excess food in and around the filter. If you’re carrying out a deeper clean, using a hot cycle and white vinegar, this should be done once a month. This routine will keep it running smoothly and reduce any need for a dishwasher repair or replacement.”