General owner-safe guideUpdated July 2026

Dishwasher not drying

Dishes, glasses, or the tub remain wetter than expected after a completed cycle.

Start hereConfirm the cycle completed before changing settings or products.

Try these checks in order

Controls, access points, and normal behaviour differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or official manual.

  1. 1

    Use a drying option

    Select Heated Dry, Extended Dry, or the equivalent when the item care labels allow it. Eco and quick cycles may reduce drying.

    What you want: A clear result without opening the appliance or bypassing a safety system.
  2. 2

    Check rinse aid

    Fill and adjust the rinse-aid dispenser according to the manual. Do not pour rinse aid directly into the tub.

    What you want: A clear result without opening the appliance or bypassing a safety system.
  3. 3

    Improve loading and drainage

    Angle cups and bowls so water cannot pool, keep spray paths clear, and avoid nesting items.

    What you want: A clear result without opening the appliance or bypassing a safety system.
  4. 4

    Unload from the bottom first

    This reduces water from upper-rack items dripping onto dry dishes below.

    What you want: A clear result without opening the appliance or bypassing a safety system.
  5. 5

    Set realistic expectations for plastic

    Plastic cools quickly and commonly retains droplets. Place dishwasher-safe plastic securely and use the model’s recommended dry setting.

    What you want: A clear result without opening the appliance or bypassing a safety system.

Stop and arrange help when

  • The dishwasher overheats, smells electrical, or damages items on normal settings.
  • The cycle does not complete or standing water remains.
  • The vent or fan requires panel removal.
  • Steam or leaking water reaches cabinetry, wiring, or an outlet.

If the problem remains

Record the exact model, symptom, any code, and the checks completed. Use the official manual and recall search before authorizing service.

Source basis

This general guide was reviewed against official support and safety information. Your exact model manual controls.