There was a time when having a dishwasher at home was a sign of luxury, not within everyone’s reach. However, in recent decades this appliance has become increasingly present in European households, as a symbol of the human species’ deep rejection of washing dishes and cutlery by hand.
In reality, many dishwashers give the impression that they do not always achieve the purpose for which they were created, to thoroughly wash dishes, cutlery and other kitchen utensils. Therefore, it is not uncommon for them to come out after a wash cycle with stains and grease residues and the cutlery looking dull and opaque.
The aluminum ball trick
One of the most recurrent criticisms of dishwashers is precisely that cutlery and other utensils made of aluminum and stainless steel come out clean but opaque.
It also happens that the blame cannot always be laid at the door of this long-suffering domestic appliance (the washing machine and the refrigerator do not arouse this strange empathy), as it may be related to the hardness of the water, the presence of calcium and magnesium. Also to the way we distribute the utensils or the quality of the detergent we are using.
Whatever the reason, there is a home trick that has been gaining popularity and that consists of putting a ball of aluminum foil in the dishwasher before starting to wash the dishes.
You just have to make a small ball with aluminum foil and place it in the cutlery compartment or on the dishwasher tray. Then put the dirty plates and cutlery in and wash as normal with your favorite brand of detergent. The result is surprising: the cutlery comes out clean and shiny.
Trick or magic?
There is an explanation for this curious household phenomenon. Many detergents contain sulfur, which, on contact with aluminum or steel, causes it to become opaque.
What does the aluminum ball do? This piece of aluminum acts as a kind of martyr, being the first to react to the presence of sulfur, and preventing it from taking effect on the rest of the cutlery.
This reaction has been known for some time and is used on boats to protect metal parts from rusting.
It’s that simple, the aluminum ball prevents oxidation and helps the cutlery regain its shine.
Recommendations on the use of the dishwasher
It is definitely a very appreciated household appliance, but many of us still do not know how to take advantage of it or use it efficiently. It is a piece of equipment that helps a lot in the kitchen, and it can be more useful if used correctly.
Here are some tips:
- It is not necessary to rinse plates and cutlery in the dishwasher, unless they have been left too long and the remains have dried. You just have to place the items correctly, and without overloading it.
- If the plates and cutlery are not very dirty, it is not necessary to use too hot water, in this way we will save a little energy.
- Check that the kitchen utensils can be put in the dishwasher. Some are not recommended for this appliance, such as those made of wood or certain plastics.
- Use detergents suitable for dishwashers for best results.
- Clean the filter regularly and it is advisable to read the user manual carefully.
- At least once a month it is worth doing a maintenance wash, with the dishwasher empty, using hot water and some maintenance product for the appliance.
