Loading Basics
Before Loading:
- Scrape off large food particles
- Check items for dishwasher safety
- Remove plastic items that may melt
- Check for items that may block spray arms
- Ensure nothing protrudes from racks
Step-by-Step Loading Guide
- Prepare Dishes: Scrape off excess food but no need to pre-rinse. Modern dishwashers and detergents work better with some food soil.
- Load Lower Rack First: Start with plates, pots, pans, and larger items in the lower rack facing the center.
- Load Upper Rack: Place cups, glasses, bowls, and plastic items in the upper rack. Angle cups downward.
- Arrange Utensils: Place utensils in the basket with handles down for safety and better cleaning. Mix types to prevent nesting.
- Check Clearance: Ensure spray arms can rotate freely and nothing blocks the detergent dispenser.
- Add Detergent: Use recommended dishwasher detergent in the dispenser. Do not use regular dish soap.
- Select Cycle: Choose appropriate wash cycle based on soil level and load type.
Upper Rack Loading
Recommended Items | Cups, glasses, mugs, bowls, plastic containers, delicate items |
Loading Direction | Face items toward center spray arm |
Cup Positioning | Angle downward to prevent water pooling |
Adjustable Rack | Can be raised/lowered for taller items |
Fold-Down Tines | Adjust for different sized items |
Special Features | Wine glass holders, adjustable cup shelves |
Upper Rack Loading Tips
- Glasses and Cups: Place between tines, not over them, to prevent breakage
- Bowls: Angle slightly downward and space evenly
- Plastic Items: Place on top rack only and secure properly
- Long Items: Use fold-down tines to create space for serving utensils
- Delicate Items: Use gentle cycle and secure placement
For optimal cleaning, ensure water spray can reach all surfaces and items don't touch each other.
Lower Rack Loading
Plate Loading
Load plates facing the center with space between each plate. Alternate sizes for better water flow and cleaning efficiency.
Pots and Pans
Place pots and pans upside down and angled downward. Ensure they don't block the spray arm rotation or detergent dispenser.
Larger Items
Position baking sheets, cutting boards, and serving platters along the sides or back to avoid blocking water flow to other items.
Adjustable Tines
Use fold-down tines to create space for oversized items or oddly shaped cookware. Multiple tine positions available for flexibility.
Spray Arm Clearance
Always check that the lower spray arm can rotate freely. Tall items should be placed at the sides, not in the center.
Cutlery Tray
Some models feature an additional cutlery tray on the lower rack for extra utensil capacity and better organization.
Lower Rack Capacity Guide
Dinner Plates
Up to 12 standard dinner plates with proper spacing
Soup Bowls
8-10 bowls when using both upper and lower racks
Pots & Pans
2-4 medium pots or 1 large roasting pan
Cutting Boards
2-3 boards placed along the sides
Baking Sheets
2-3 sheets positioned at the back
Serving Platters
1-2 large platters using fold-down tines
Utensil Basket Loading
Utensil Type | Loading Position | Special Instructions |
---|---|---|
Forks & Spoons | Handles down, mixed arrangement | Mix forks and spoons to prevent nesting |
Knives | Handles down for safety | Sharp knives should point downward |
Serving Spoons | Bowls facing downward | Place in designated larger compartments |
Whisks & Special Tools | Lay flat if possible | Ensure moving parts can be cleaned |
Wooden Utensils | Top rack only | Check manufacturer's dishwasher safety |
Plastic Utensils | Top rack, secure placement | May warp in high heat on bottom rack |
Utensil Loading Best Practices
- Mix Utensils: Alternate spoons, forks, and knives to prevent nesting
- Handles Down: Place all utensils with handles downward for safety and better cleaning
- Large Utensils: Use the larger compartments at the ends of the basket
- Separate Silverware: Keep silver, stainless steel, and other metals separated if possible
- Check for Obstructions: Ensure utensils don't block the spray arm or detergent dispenser
- Overflow Protection: Don't overfill the basket - use both baskets if available
Manual Downloads
Bosch 100 Series Models
SHS63VL5UC
100 Series 24" Dishwasher
SHS53VL5UC
100 Series 24" with CrystalDry
SHS43VL5UC
100 Series Stainless Steel
SHS33VL5UC
100 Series White
Popular Accessory Guides
Rack Systems
Adjustable Rack Guide
Detergent Guide
Recommended Detergents
Installation
Installation Manual
Maintenance
Cleaning & Care Guide