When you’re tackling chores like the dishes, it’s easy to go on autopilot — simply press start and move on. But if you slow down for a second and pay attention to the dishwasher cycle you’re using, you could actually make the whole process a lot more efficient.
There’s a reason why dishwashers have multiple settings: they all do different jobs, and it’s important to use the correct wash cycle for each load. Using the right one not only gets your dishes cleaner but can also save energy and reduce the need for re-washing.
Here, a guide to a handful of the most helpful dishwasher cycles you might find on your appliance’s control panel.
Dishwasher settings you should be using
Auto (or Sensor Wash)
This is the set-it-and-forget-it option that takes the guesswork out of dishwashing by adjusting the water temperature, cycle duration and water pressure based on how dirty your dishes are. Most dishwashers today, including many of GH’s top-tested dishwashers, have built-in sensors that detect soil levels and adjust accordingly. It’s a great everyday choice for loads with a mix of lightly and heavily soiled dishes.
Heavy Duty
When your cookware (casserole dishes, sheet pans and pots) is covered in baked-on messes, this cycle is ideal. It uses higher water temperatures and longer wash times to break down tough food residue. On some dishwashers, like Miele models for example, it may be called “pots and pans,” and typically includes two pre-washes and a hotter main wash for extra cleaning power.
Eco
Sometimes labeled as “Energy Saver” or “Eco Wash,” this cycle uses less water and lower temperatures, making it more energy-efficient overall. While it typically takes longer to run, the tradeoff is a lighter environmental impact and lower utility bills — especially if you run your dishwasher frequently or want to reduce your household’s energy use. Just keep in mind: It’s best for lightly soiled dishes rather than greasy pots or stuck-on messes.
Rinse and Hold (or Rinse Only)
On some newer dishwashers, you may need to download this cycle as an extra feature, but this quick cycle is convenient when you’re not ready to run a full load. It rinses off food soils so they don’t dry onto your dishes and helps keep odors from building up inside your dishwasher. It uses very little water and buys you some time until it’s time to run a full wash.
Drying Boost
If you often find yourself towel-drying dishes after a cycle, the Drying Boost (sometimes labeled Dry+, Extended Dry or Pro Dry) extends the final phase with extra heat or time to help eliminate lingering moisture — especially on perennially tricky items like plastics. It does use a bit more energy, but the payoff of dry, cabinet-ready dishes is worth it.
The Dishwasher Cycle You May Not Need
Half Load (or Top/Bottom Only)
Some dishwashers offer Half Load or Top/Bottom Only settings, meant for smaller loads when you don’t need to fill the entire machine. Our Cleaning Lab pros say these cycles are more efficient than running a full load cycle with the dishwasher only half-full, but it may be better to wait until you have a full load or use the Rinse & Hold option on your appliance.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
