What To Do If Your Dishwasher Pods Are Not Dissolving
Dishwashers are so convenient because they take away the stress of hand washing, but there are various things that can interrupt the flow. Dishes might be coming out greasy, or your detergent might not be working. Dishwasher pods, a form of detergent for cleaning dishes just like laundry pods for washing machines, are fairly easy to use because you just need to put them in the designated detergent area of the machine. During the cycle, they dissolve in water and are spun around by the dishwasher's spray arms so they can clean the dishes. Dishwasher pods are typically preferred to detergents that come in liquid, powder, and gel because they don't require any measurements. However, they aren't always used properly, which stops them from working as they should.
Some common mistakes include throwing them into the dishwasher randomly or not storing them well. This leads to the pods dissolving at the wrong time, partially, or not at all. If your pods aren't dissolving, you need to check your dishwasher, review the way you're using them, and check the pods themselves. Here are some things to look out for and what you can do if your dishwasher pods are not dissolving.
Check the dishwasher
All parts of the dishwasher need to be functioning correctly so they can work together to achieve a successful cycle. Many possible reasons your dishwasher pods aren't dissolving have to do with your dishwasher's capacity. The circulation pump may not be working well, the spray arms may not be spinning properly, it may not be getting enough water, or the water may not be hot enough. Between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature for a dishwasher, per Paradise Appliance Service.
To fix these issues, you can start by ensuring the dishwasher runs normally. See if the water temperature gets really hot by looking at its internal thermostats or testing it yourself. You can also check if the water inlet valve is working by running a cycle for a few minutes and then checking for water at the bottom of the machine. No water means it's faulty because it isn't allowing water in as it should. These are things you can do on your own, but you can also get a technician to carry out replacements and repairs.
Check your habits
Are you placing items in your dishwasher that block the detergent dispenser during the cycle? How are you handling the pods themselves? Your habits can also be the reason your dishwasher pods aren't dissolving. A blocked dispenser door is usually caused by a full dishwasher or when an item is placed in a way that obstructs the pod from coming out, so ensure nothing blocks the door when you load up your dishwasher.
The way you handle dishwasher pods also affects their efficiency. You should be storing them well, so they stay fresh. Keep the pods in a sealed, airtight container (usually the one they came in) because exposure to heat and moisture affects their ability to dissolve properly, advises A Clean Bee. Also, avoid touching them with wet hands to keep the outer barrier intact. Finally, keep in mind that expired dishwasher pods won't work as well as fresh ones.