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Shared problem guide
Source verifiedUser-level

Dishwasher not drying dishes

Check whether the cycle includes drying, whether rinse aid and a supported dry option are in use, and whether loading traps water.

Common descriptionsDishes remain wet · Water pools on dishware · Plastic items remain wetter
Safety boundaryUser-level
Last reviewed 2026-08-17
Safe troubleshooting checks

Dishwasher drying-performance checks

4 steps
  1. 01

    Confirm the selected cycle includes drying

    User-level

    Use the exact model manual to check whether the program has a drying phase and whether a supported extra-dry option must be selected. Do not assume every model has the same options.

    Sources: [1] [2] [3]

  2. 02

    Check rinse aid according to the manual

    User-level

    Confirm that rinse aid is present and that its setting follows the appliance manual. Manufacturer guidance links rinse aid with improved water runoff and drying.

    Sources: [1] [2] [3]

  3. 03

    Load items so water can drain

    User-level

    Leave space between items and angle concave surfaces so they do not collect water. Plastic items may remain wetter and sometimes need towel drying.

    Sources: [1] [2] [3]

  4. 04

    Use service for persistent drying failure

    Professional help

    If the supported cycle, rinse aid, and loading checks do not improve drying, contact manufacturer support or qualified service instead of testing heating components yourself.

    Sources: [1] [2] [3]

Traceability

Sources & references

3 records
Manufacturer support

Dishes are still wet (opens in a new tab)

Bosch US · Accessed

Last reviewed · Review due

Supports spacing dishes, using rinse aid, checking supported drying options, and seeking support if the issue remains.

Source verified
Manufacturer support

Dishwasher does not dry or dries poorly (opens in a new tab)

Electrolux UK · Accessed

Last reviewed · Review due

Supports checking for a drying phase, rinse aid, supported drying functions, and the expectation that plastic may remain wetter.

Source verified
Manufacturer support

Not drying: dishwasher (opens in a new tab)

Whirlpool US · Accessed

Last reviewed · Review due

Supports rinse aid, loading to avoid pooling, model-supported dry options, plastic drying limitations, and service escalation.

Source verified
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Review loading, the removable filter and spray arms, the selected program, and automatic dishwasher detergent.

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White residue, film, or cloudy glasses after dishwashing

Separate removable mineral or salt film from possible permanent glass etching before changing detergent, rinse-aid, or water-hardness settings.

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Dishwasher tablet not dissolving or detergent left behind

Keep the dispenser dry and unobstructed, match the detergent to a suitable cycle, and use service support if basic checks do not resolve it.

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