Dishwashers are remarkably safe appliances that millions of Australians use daily without incident. However, like any appliance that combines water, electricity, heat, and potentially sharp objects, there are safety considerations every household should understand. This guide covers essential safety practices that protect your family, prevent property damage, and ensure your dishwasher operates safely for years to come.
Key Takeaway
Most dishwasher safety incidents are preventable with awareness and simple precautions. Understanding the risks and following basic safety guidelines protects your family and prevents costly damage to your home.
Heat and Burn Prevention
Dishwashers use water temperatures between 55°C and 75°C during wash cycles, with some cycles reaching even higher temperatures. This heat is essential for cleaning and sanitising but presents burn risks if not handled carefully.
During Operation
Never open a dishwasher door during a cycle unless absolutely necessary. When you do open the door mid-cycle, hot steam can escape rapidly and cause burns to your face, arms, and hands. Stand to the side of the door rather than directly in front, and wait for steam to dissipate before reaching inside. Modern dishwashers typically pause the cycle when the door opens, but residual heat and steam remain.
After Cycles Complete
Even after the cycle finishes, dishes and the interior remain hot. Wait a few minutes before unloading, especially if the heated drying option was used. Metal items like pots, pans, and cutlery retain heat longer than ceramic or glass items. When unloading, start with items on the top rack, allowing more time for lower-rack items to cool.
Protect Children
Teach children never to open the dishwasher during or immediately after a cycle. The steam release point is at adult face height but directly at a child's head level, presenting a significant burn risk.
Child Safety Measures
Dishwashers present several hazards for curious children, from hot steam to sharp objects inside. Taking proactive measures protects young family members.
Control Lock Features
Most modern dishwashers include a child lock or control lock feature that prevents the machine from being operated. Consult your user manual to learn how to activate this feature. Some models require holding a specific button for several seconds; others have dedicated lock buttons. Make using the control lock a habit whenever the dishwasher isn't in use.
Sharp Object Placement
Always load knives and sharp utensils with the blade pointing downward in the cutlery basket. This protects anyone reaching into the dishwasher from cuts. When using a cutlery tray, position sharp edges facing away from the front of the machine.
Detergent Safety
Dishwasher detergent pods look colourful and candy-like to young children, presenting a serious poisoning risk if ingested. Store detergent in a locked cabinet or high shelf, never under the sink where children can access it. Never leave pods out on the benchtop, even briefly. If a child ingests detergent, call the Poisons Information Centre immediately on 13 11 26.
Electrical Safety
The combination of water and electricity requires careful attention to electrical safety. Australian electrical standards are rigorous, but homeowner awareness adds an essential layer of protection.
Professional Installation
Dishwasher electrical connections should only be made by a licensed electrician. In Australia, DIY electrical work is illegal in most circumstances. The appliance must be connected to an appropriate circuit, typically requiring a dedicated circuit for larger models. Ensure the installation includes a safety switch (residual current device or RCD) protection.
Power Cord Care
Regularly inspect the power cord for damage, fraying, or exposed wires. A damaged cord should be replaced by a qualified technician before further use. Never run the dishwasher if you notice any electrical damage. Ensure the cord isn't pinched by the dishwasher or caught under cabinet edges.
Water Contact
Never operate the dishwasher if you're standing in water or if the floor beneath it is wet from a leak. If you discover a leak, turn off the dishwasher and disconnect power at the circuit breaker before addressing the water. Don't touch electrical components while wet or standing on a wet surface.
Warning Signs
Immediately stop using your dishwasher and call an electrician if you notice: unusual smells (especially burning), sparks when operating, flickering lights when the dishwasher runs, or if you receive even a mild shock when touching the appliance.
Flooding Prevention
A dishwasher leak or overflow can cause significant water damage to flooring, cabinetry, and even the subfloor. Preventive measures and quick response minimise damage risk.
Regular Inspection
Periodically check the water supply hose and drain hose for signs of wear, cracking, or bulging. These hoses typically last 5-7 years but can fail sooner, especially in areas with hard water or high water pressure. Consider replacing rubber hoses with braided stainless steel versions, which are more resistant to bursting.
Door Seal Maintenance
The rubber gasket around the dishwasher door prevents water from leaking during operation. Inspect it regularly for cracks, tears, or accumulated debris that could prevent proper sealing. Clean the gasket monthly with warm soapy water and check that it seats properly when the door closes.
Flood Protection Devices
Consider installing a water leak detector near your dishwasher. These battery-operated devices sound an alarm when they detect water, alerting you to leaks before they cause major damage. Some smart home models can even send alerts to your phone when you're away.
When You're Away
Avoid running the dishwasher when you're not home or overnight. If a leak occurs while you're present, you can respond quickly. For extended absences, consider turning off the water supply to the dishwasher entirely.
Fire Safety
While dishwasher fires are rare, they do occur. Most are caused by electrical faults, but placement of items and general maintenance also play roles.
Don't Block Ventilation
Dishwashers have ventilation areas that release steam and heat. Ensure these aren't blocked by benchtop overhangs, stored items, or placement too close to combustible materials.
Proper Loading
Keep plastic items on the upper rack, away from the heating element. Plastic that falls to the bottom can melt onto the element, creating smoke and potential fire hazards. Never place anything other than dishes inside the dishwasher, especially items not designed to withstand high heat.
Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance reduces fire risk. Clean the filter to prevent grease buildup, which is flammable. Ensure electrical connections are secure and there's no visible damage to wiring. If your dishwasher makes unusual sounds or displays error codes, have it inspected before continuing use.
Chemical Safety
Dishwasher detergents, rinse aids, and cleaning products can be hazardous if misused.
Never Mix Products
Never mix dishwasher detergent with other cleaning products. Some combinations can create toxic fumes. Use only products designed for automatic dishwashers; regular dish soap creates excessive suds that can overflow from the machine.
Proper Storage
Store all dishwasher products in their original containers with labels intact. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from food and out of children's reach. Don't store products under the sink if pipes can leak onto them.
Handling Spills
If dishwasher detergent spills, clean it up promptly and thoroughly. These products can be slippery when wet, creating a fall hazard. Rinse the area with plenty of water.
Safe Daily Practices
Incorporating safety into your daily dishwasher routine is simple:
- Close the dishwasher door when not loading or unloading to prevent trips and falls
- Don't stand or sit on the open dishwasher door, as this can cause tip-over and damage
- Load sharp items carefully, blades down
- Keep the floor in front of the dishwasher clear and dry
- Never spray water directly at the control panel
- Use the delay start feature so cycles run while you're home
Emergency Preparedness
Know where your main water shut-off valve and electrical panel are located. In an emergency involving your dishwasher, being able to quickly cut water or power can prevent significant damage.
When to Call a Professional
Some situations require professional attention rather than DIY solutions:
- Any electrical concerns or damage to cords and connections
- Significant leaks from anywhere other than the door seal
- Burning smells or visible smoke
- The machine won't stop running or filling with water
- Error codes that persist after resetting
- Installation or major repairs
Dishwashers are safe, convenient appliances when used properly. By following these safety guidelines, you protect your family from potential hazards while enjoying the convenience and hygiene benefits that dishwashers provide.