Prevent Etching Glasses in the Dishwasher

Few cleaning experiences are as frustrating as clear glassware being damaged in the dishwasher through etching. A process by which small nicks and scratches accumulate on the surface of glasses, etching cannot be reversed but can be avoided. Read on to learn how you can prevent etching glasses.

How can you prevent the dishwasher from etching your glasses?

Step 1: Read the Dishwasher Manual

Because every dishwasher carries different features and instructions, it is important to start by consulting the manual. Your dishwasher manual will provide operation instructions and information regarding settings and features.

Step 2: Stop Pre-Cleaning Your Dishes

The purpose of detergent is to clean the food from your dishes. However, if there is no food or residue, the detergent has nothing to attach to. When this happens, the detergent may not work as intended and could possibly contribute to etching. Let your dishwasher take care of food residue for you and your detergent do its job.

Step 3: Load the Dishwasher Correctly

Similarly, if detergent is not able to reach residue on dishes due to improper loading, its cleaning power is reduced. This is why it is essential to load your dishwasher in accordance with your manual. Ensure you understand what items you can and cannot run in your dishwasher.

Step 4: Measure Your Hot Water Temperature

Another crucial aspect of etching comes when your water is too hot—or not hot enough. While dishwashers will heat water for you, make sure your water heater is properly calibrated to ensure best results. Measure your hot water temperature by running hot water from your faucet into a cup and then inserting a thermometer. The temperature should be between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Use the Right Detergent

This is perhaps the most important step to avoid etching. Before starting a cycle, add automatic dishwasher detergent to your dispenser. If you currently soften your water, or if your dishwasher has a built-in water softener, you may need to switch to a detergent with a glass-protecting formula. Make sure you use the right amount of detergent by consulting the bottle instructions.

Step 6: Run the Dishwasher

Once you have completed these steps and ensured proper operation, it is time to run your dishwasher. The length of time your dishwasher runs will vary by dishwasher type.