Why are my dishes still wet after the dishwasher cycle?

This guide explains that soggy dishes often result from a few common issues: low or empty rinse aid, a blocked or dirty filter, problems with the spray arms, or a fault with the heating element or fan. Addressing these specific culprits can resolve most drying problems.

How often should I check and refill my dishwasher's rinse aid?

According to this guide, you should top up your rinse aid dispenser approximately every month. Rinse aid is essential for helping water sheet off dishes, which prevents spotting and ensures proper drying.

What is the recommended cleaning frequency for my dishwasher filter?

This guide advises cleaning your dishwasher filter every two weeks. A clean filter is crucial for maintaining good water drainage and ensuring dishes are properly rinsed and dried, as clogs can leave residual moisture.

My dishwasher isn't getting hot, and dishes are not drying. What could be wrong?

If your dishwasher doesn't feel warm at the end of the cycle, this guide suggests there might be an electrical fault with the heating element or fan, or a failed thermostat. For such issues, it's recommended to consult your appliance manual for a diagnostic cycle or contact an engineer.

Are there any quick tips to improve my dishwasher's drying performance?

Yes, this guide offers several practical tips: use a hot wash cycle to help evaporate water faster, open the dishwasher door slightly for a few minutes after the cycle to let steam escape, and load dishes strategically to avoid overcrowding and allow water to drain easily.

Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes – Fix It Today | Need a New Dishwasher

Why Your Dishwasher Isn’t Drying Properly

There’s nothing more annoying than a cycle ending with soggy mugs and dripping plates. Drying issues often come down to a few common culprits: rinse aid levels, filter blockages, spray arm performance and the heating element or fan. Let’s tackle each one, so you can enjoy spot-free dishes without reaching for tea towels.

1. Low or Empty Rinse Aid

Quick Fix: Top up your rinse aid dispenser every month.

Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes rather than puddling on them. Without it, droplets cling and leave spots—and uncomfortably soggy crockery.

Pour rinse aid into the dedicated dispenser before each cycle.

2. Blocked or Dirty Filter

Top Tip: Clean your filter every two weeks to maintain good water flow.

A clogged filter restricts water drainage, causing residual moisture to remain on dishes. Regular cleaning ensures the machine can rinse and then dry properly.

Remove and rinse the filter under the tap to clear food particles.

3. Spray Arm Issues

If spray arms are blocked or spinning poorly, water won’t distribute evenly—leaving pockets of heat and moisture. Check for limescale build-up and food debris.

Reminder: Inspect spray arms monthly and clear any holes with a toothpick.

Ensure spray arms rotate freely and holes are clear.

4. Heating Element or Fan Faults

Modern dishwashers often use either a heating element or a fan to dry dishes. If your machine doesn’t feel warm at the end of the cycle, there may be an electrical fault or a failed thermostat.

Top Tip: Run a diagnostic cycle (consult your manual) or call an engineer if you suspect an electrical issue.

Additional Practical Tips

Use a Hot Wash Cycle

Raising the wash temperature helps evaporate water faster. Look for an “intense” or “sanitise” setting.

Open the Door Slightly After the Cycle

Quick Fix: Crack open the door for a few minutes to let steam escape.

Steam trapped inside will condense on cooler dishes. Venting helps them dry before you unload.

Load Strategically

Avoid overcrowding. Place items at an angle to allow water to drain off easily.

Bottom Line: Regular maintenance—topping up rinse aid, cleaning filters and spray arms, and occasionally airing out the tub—will keep your dishwasher drying like new. If the heating element or fan fails, a quick engineer call will get you back on track without replacing the whole machine.

Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes: Why It Happens and How to Fix It