When can you open your dishwasher?

Some dishwashers use the heat from the evaporated water to dry the dirty dishes. If you open the door as soon as the program finishes, all this heat dissipates immediately and you run the risk of leaving the dishes wet. Leaving the dishwasher closed for 15 to 20 minutes after the end of the program guarantees dry dishes. However, your dishes are still very hot after 20 minutes, so it is best to leave the door open for a while. If the door does not stay open you can always slide the top rack out a bit.

Closing the dishwasher is a precise job. If you open the dishwasher after more than 30 minutes, you run the risk that the evaporated water will condense and wet your dishes again. Leaving the appliance on too long can also cause problems. If you don’t always have the time to spend with your dishwasher until the end of the program, you can look for a model with a delayed start option.

Facts and fables about opening your dishwasher

Your dishwasher will smell if you don’t open it

In principle, your dishwasher won’t smell if you don’t open it, unless there are very dirty things in it without being washed. Even in that case, an open dishwasher will not be enough to prevent bad odors. Once you’ve let clean dishes dry, it really won’t matter for the smell if your dishwasher door doesn’t open.

An open dishwasher is bad for your kitchen

There are voices that say an open dishwasher is not good for the kitchen cabinets and countertop. The foil will bulge and will slowly come off due to the fumes. If you open the dishwasher daily immediately after the end of the program, the moisture damage becomes visible. Again, it is wise to give your dishwasher 15-20 minutes to dry your dishes. Once you open it, the worst of the vapor will be gone and it will no longer affect your kitchen.