Dishwasher Soap Dispenser Out of Commission? Don’t Despair! Try This Easy Hack

When your dishwasher’s soap dispenser malfunctions, tackling a pile of dirty dishes can become a daunting task. But fear not! With a few clever workarounds, you can keep your dishes sparkling clean even with a broken dispenser. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use a dishwasher when the soap dispenser is broken:

Manual Soap Addition

The simplest solution is to manually add dish soap directly to the dishwasher.

Step 1: Determine the Right Amount

Use a measuring spoon to add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap to the bottom of the dishwasher, ensuring it doesn’t spill over the sides.

Step 2: Position the Soap

Place the soap near the center of the dishwasher, where the water jets can easily reach it.

Step 3: Run the Cycle

Select the desired wash cycle and start the dishwasher. The soap will dissolve and distribute throughout the cycle.

Soap Dispenser Tray

If you have a dishwasher with a removable soap dispenser tray, you can use it as a temporary solution.

Step 1: Remove the Tray

Locate the soap dispenser tray and carefully pull it out.

Step 2: Fill the Tray

Pour 1-2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap into the tray.

Step 3: Place the Tray

Insert the filled tray back into the dispenser compartment.

Step 4: Run the Cycle

Start the dishwasher as usual. The soap will be released from the tray during the cycle.

External Soap Dispenser

Step 1: Purchase an External Dispenser

Get an external soap dispenser that attaches to the outside of the dishwasher door.

Step 2: Fill the Dispenser

Fill the external dispenser with liquid dish soap.

Step 3: Connect the Hose

Connect the hose from the dispenser to the dishwasher’s water supply.

Step 4: Run the Cycle

Start the dishwasher and the soap will be dispensed automatically during the cycle.

Temporarily Disable the Soap Dispenser

If you cannot remove or replace the soap dispenser, you can temporarily disable it.

Step 1: Locate the Dispenser

Identify the soap dispenser compartment inside the dishwasher.

Step 2: Block the Dispenser

Use a piece of duct tape or a small piece of cardboard to cover the opening of the dispenser.

Step 3: Run the Cycle

Start the dishwasher and manually add dish soap as described in the “Manual Soap Addition” section.

Cleaning the Soap Dispenser

Once the broken soap dispenser is replaced, it’s important to clean it thoroughly.

Step 1: Remove the Dispenser

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the soap dispenser.

Step 2: Soak in Hot Water

Soak the dispenser in hot water for 30 minutes to loosen any dried soap residue.

Step 3: Scrub with a Toothbrush

Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining soap or debris.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the dispenser thoroughly with hot water to remove all cleaning solution.

Step 5: Reinstall the Dispenser

Reinstall the clean soap dispenser into the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while using a dishwasher with a broken soap dispenser, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• No soap being dispensed: Ensure the soap dispenser is properly filled and connected. If using an external dispenser, check if the hose is kinked or clogged.
• Too much soap being dispensed: If using an external dispenser, adjust the amount of soap dispensed by turning the dial on the dispenser.
• Dishes not cleaning properly: Check if the spray arms are clear of debris and rotating freely. If using manual soap addition, ensure the soap is properly distributed in the dishwasher.

Summary: Clean Dishes, Broken Dispenser No More

With these innovative workarounds, you can effectively use your dishwasher even when the soap dispenser is broken. Remember to clean the replaced dispenser thoroughly to prevent future issues and keep your dishes sparkling clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any liquid dish soap in the dishwasher?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to use a dishwasher-specific liquid dish soap to prevent sudsing and residue buildup.

Q: How often should I clean the soap dispenser?
A: Every 3-6 months or as needed to prevent soap buildup and clogging.

Q: What if the soap dispenser is completely broken and cannot be repaired?
A: Consider replacing the entire dishwasher or hiring a professional appliance repair technician to assess the issue.