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Dishwasher not cleaning properly

If your dishwasher is producing unsatisfactory cleaning results, don’t worry. The issue is normally something that can be quickly fixed at home. Please carefully read through the list of possible causes shown below and follow the instructions to resolve the problem.

Dishwasher tablet placed

Dishwasher tablet has not dissolved

One of the main reasons why the dishes remain unclean after a cycle is because the dishwasher tablet has not dissolved properly. To check if this is the problem you’re facing, locate the tablet collecting tray which holds the dishwasher tablet and see if it has fully dissolved.

If the tablet is still there, check that the spray arms are fully functioning – they should be able to rotate freely and there should be no signs of blockage across the nozzles on the spray arms. If they appear blocked, you can use tweezers or a cocktail stick to clean the debris. Blocked spray arms will not be able to distribute water adequately, which will prevent the dishwasher tablet from dissolving. To find out more about how to clean the dishwasher spray arms, click here.

Blocked filter

The dishwasher filter is designed to catch the dirt and deposits from the dishes or items being cleaned. If the filter gets clogged, the appliance’s water flow will be disrupted and the dishwasher will no longer function properly. In some cases the dirt may be redeposited on the dishes or items being washed. To learn more about cleaning the filter, click here.

Bosch dishwasher cleaning glass

Improper loading

Loading the dishwasher correctly is very important when it comes to effective cleaning results. If the dishes are not well organised, the water will not reach all parts of the items being washed and you have to run another load just to clean the few items that are still dirty. In the upper basket, you should arrange cups and glasses. Note that utensils must not be placed above the tablet collecting tray as these may block the lid of the detergent dispenser, preventing the dishwasher tablet from dissolving. The lower basket of the dishwasher is used to arrange the pots, pans and plates. Heavily soiled pans should be placed in the lower basket where the spray jet is more intense and there is more space available. For more tips on how to properly load the dishwasher, click here.

Low water temperature

To clean dirtier dishes with stubborn burnt-in food remnants, we recommend selecting a programme with a higher temperature setting. Please refer to your instruction manual for more information about the programme settings.

If your appliance is not heating up water properly, please click here for more information.

How to clean a dishwasher

Cleaning your dishwasher periodically can help improve the performance and prolong the lifetime of the appliance. Discover our easy-to-follow care guide to get started.

How to descale a dishwasher

Descaling the dishwasher is particularly important if you live in hard water area due to the buildup of limescale. To find out more on descaling, follow the link below.

How to use rinse aid

Rinse aid is a surfectant product that improves both cleaning and drying results. We recommend using it as part of every cycle in order to get the most out of your dishwasher. Find out more below.

Contact Us

Do you need further help and support? Our customer service team will be able to provide the help you need.

Repair Service

Need to book a repair? Not a problem. We can arrange for an engineer to repair your appliance, both in and out of warranty.

User Manuals

If you need any help and support that is specific to your Bosch appliance model, your user manual is the best place to find this information.

Bosch Store

Search for original spare parts and buy tested and approved accessories and care products for your Bosch appliances in the Bosch store.