We break down the science behind your detergent and where to put it.

The world of TikTokcleaning hackscan be exciting and even controversial.

Dishwasher hacks and how-tos alone have clocked millions of views on the platform.

dishwasher pods on a green background

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Heres the storyand the bottom line on where you should put your dishwasher pods and why.

However, this advice sparked debates all over the internet.

How Do Dishwasher Detergent Pods Work?

Experts at several appliance companies adviseagainstleaving your pods loose in the dishwasher.

Essentially, dishwasher pods are a pop in of dishwasher tablet, also called a tab.

Why Are Loose Pods Bad?

The detergent will have been washed away before it has time to actually clean your dishes.

So Where Should You Put Detergent Pods?

When youre loading your tab or pod into the dispenser, use dry hands.

If your hands are wet, then that can cause the pod to begin dissolving prematurely.

Heres a refresher:

Maytag.How to use dishwasher pods the right way.

Published March 27, 2023.

Bosch.Where to put dishwasher tablets.

KitchenAid.Dishwasher Cycles and prefs Explained.

Published August 10, 2022.

Finish.How to load your dishwasher.