Try to keep all surfaces separated and accessible to the stream of water from the sprayers.
Do not crowd or overload the dishwasher. If necessary, hand wash large items or run the dishwasher a second time.
Distribute the cutlery loosely, and position the soiled surfaces of the spoons and forks apart so that the water can reach them. Separation is key. Long pieces of cutlery can block the spray from tubes, nozzles and rotating devices. These items should be laid down in the upper basket. Lay larger serving utensils in the top section of the dishwasher. Arrange serving spoons with the bowl facing down so that water does not collect in them.
Fill the soap container on the door of the dishwasher first if you have two. It is timed to open after the dishwasher does some pre-rinsing to soften up the dirt on its own. Only fill the second soap well if you have had issues with cleaning before, or you know a load is particularly dirty.
Pre-rinse, but only if it is necessary. Most dishwashers and dishwasher detergents actually do a better job if they have something to remove. If your dishes aren’t coming out clean, though, it might be best to use a quick spritz of water before the food hardens onto the dishes.
You can replace commercial rinse aid with white vinegar in a pinch, with little difference in quality. Some dishwasher detergent has rinse aid in it. Read the label. If you have a water softener, or if your water is reasonably soft to begin with, you may find that rinse aid is unnecessary.
