How to Prevent Cloudy Dishes From the Dishwasher

Gerry asked: How do I clean dishwasher clouding from glass?

Dishwashers are a modern convenience that many of us can’t live without. But when you open the door at the end of the cycle only to find your dishes are cloudy, it can be a bit discouraging. There are several situations that can result in cloudy dishes. Work through the list and see if any of them may apply to your certain situation.

Possible Causes and Solutions for Cloudy Dishes

Mineral Deposits – In areas with hard water or well water, mineral deposits can build up over time leaving a film on the glassware. To fix this, utilize a water softener, such as Jet Dry. You can test for mineral deposits by soaking the glass in white vinegar for 5 minutes. Vinegar will remove the minerals, so if the cloudiness is removed, this may be your problem.
Clogged Drain – As dishwashers remove bits of food and other grime from the dishes, it drains the water through a screen. Over time, the gunk can build up, causing the dishwasher to cycle through dirty water. Check the filter and drain area to ensure there is no food or build-up left behind. Clean it out promptly if there is to ensure that the water being used on the dishes is clean and fresh.
Dishes Too Clean? – Dishwasher detergent requires some dirt and food to work correctly. If you are washing the dishes prior to placing them in the dishwasher, the detergent may have nothing to neutralize the acidity. This can lead to scratching the surface of the dishes, giving them a cloudy appearance.
Water Temperature - The temperature of the water in the dishwasher needs to be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is too cold, the detergent will not be dissolved correctly and will leave a residue on the dishes. If the cloudiness can be washed away when washing them by hand, this may very well be the problem. Turn on the faucet and hold a thermometer under it to see how hot the water will get. Another way to ensure there is hot water at the beginning of the cycle is to run the hot water for a few minutes prior to starting the machine.
Too Little/Too Much Detergent - While most of us just toss in the tablet or fill the detergent compartment, if you’re having problems with cloudy dishes, it may be time to look at just how much detergent is really needed. If you have softer water, you can often use less and hard water areas require more. Consult with a professional to test your water and see what the right amount is for your situation. Or, if you don’t have the resources for a professional evaluation, just use trial and error until the dishes come out film-free.
Gel Detergents - Gel detergents are popular, but not the most effective. They have a tendency to leave a residue on the dishes that can cause cloudiness. Try switching to a powder or tablet and see if the conditions improve.