Dishwasher Etiquette: Handles Up or Down?

It’s a surprisingly divisive topic—one that’s sparked more than a few spirited debates in my kitchen: Should cutlery go into the dishwasher basket handles up or handles down?

If your dishwasher doesn’t have a horizontal cutlery tray at the top (those are a game-changer, by the way), then you’re left with the classic basket. And that’s where the controversy begins.

Personally, I’m firmly in the handles-up camp. Here’s why:

1. Hygiene First

When you unload the dishwasher, you naturally grab the cutlery by the handles. If the handles are facing up, you’re not touching the part that goes into someone’s mouth. It’s a small detail, but especially important if your hands aren’t freshly washed. Why undo all that sparkling cleanliness with a handful of germs?

2. Safety Matters

As a mum of three, I’ve had my fair share of chaotic kitchen moments. Sometimes the dishwasher door is left open while I’m tidying up, and the idea of sharp knife blades and forks pointing up has always made me uneasy. What if someone trips and falls? It might sound far-fetched, but these are the kinds of things parents worry about. Plus, when loading the dishwasher, it’s much safer to avoid reaching down onto a bed of blades and fork prongs.

3. The One Downside

Yes, there is a minor drawback. Over time, the cutlery basket can get a bit worn from the pressure of knife blades. Occasionally, thin knives might slip through the holes and block the rinsing arm, which can lead to a poor wash. But this is easily fixed—just give everything a quick check before you close the door.

A Final Tip

No matter which way you load your cutlery, always wash your hands before unloading the dishwasher. It’s a simple habit that keeps your clean dishes and cutlery truly clean.