Struggling to fit taller plates, pots, and glasses into your dishwasher? There’s a way to get them safely in.
Although you probably already know that you can adjust your dishwasher’s rack height, it’s not entirely clear how to do it.
So if you’re wondering how to move those dishwasher racks around to make room for oddly shaped kitchenware, here’s how to do it.
- Not all dishwashers use the same mechanism, which helps to read the manual.
- Some models let you adjust rack height by moving the rollers on the tracks.
- Other dishwashers have a dedicated mechanism that you can operate to pull and push the rack higher or lower.
- If you can’t move the rack with the methods you’ve tried, consider calling the manufacturer for assistance.
Every dishwasher is different. Before you try these tips, make sure to check the user manual. Most of the time, manufacturers provide detailed instructions and diagrams on adjusting rack height. If the manual doesn’t contain the information or if you can’t seem to find your manual, you can try these steps.
How To Adjust a Dishwasher Rack
Adjusting the rack height ultimately depends on the model and brand of your dishwasher. Because every manufacturer uses a different mechanism, you might consider reaching out to their customer service hotline to ask about your dishwasher.
But for the sake of reference, here are some methods you can try:
1. Shifting the Rollers on the Tracks
Your dishwasher rack probably slides in place by way of a set of rollers on a set of tracks. Pulling the top rack out completely, you might find a second set of rollers on the side.
This lets you adjust the height of the rack by sliding it out and restoring it on the tracks with the other set of rollers (whether they’re higher or lower than the initial pair.)
Here’s how to do it:
- Roll out the dishwasher rack and inspect the ends of the tracks for a release mechanism.
- Unlock the track using the mechanism. This should allow the rack to pull out completely from the tracks.
- Remove the rack by pulling it out of the tracks.
- Align the secondary set of rollers and slide them into the tracks.
- If you’re washing a particularly large pot, dish, or pitcher, you can temporarily remove the upper rack and start the wash cycle with just the lower rack in place.
2. Using a Dedicated Adjustment Lever
Some dishwashers have a lever that you can use to adjust the height of the rack without having to remove it. Most of the time, these levers exist on the left and right of the rack and must be operated simultaneously.
To raise the rack, pull the lever and pull the rack up. Pull the lever and push down on the rack to bring the rack lower.
Do not attempt to move the rack if the mechanism you’ve found doesn’t seem to work. The tracks can be quite delicate and may break when sufficient pressure is applied. If you can’t find a way to adjust the rack, check online sources or call the manufacturer.
Conclusion
There’s no need to hand wash those large, bulky pots, pans, plates, and pitchers. All you need to do is figure out how to adjust your dishwasher’s rack height.
Almost every modern dishwasher offers this feature, so with a little tinkering around, you might be able to figure it out.
Keep in mind, though, that every dishwasher is different. So if you still have your manual, read through it to find out how to safely and properly adjust your rack height.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Remove a Dishwasher Rack?
Yes, you can. Some designs let you remove the top rack so you can load the bottom with tall kitchen and dinnerware.
Others also let you remove the lower rack but only for maintenance and cleaning purposes. Running the dishwasher without any of its racks could cause damage to its working parts.
Are All Dishwasher Racks Adjustable?
Interestingly, yes – most, if not all, dishwasher racks are adjustable. It’s just that manufacturers don’t always advertise the feature, so a lot of people go about their daily lives without ever adjusting their racks.
Some older models might not offer the function, but most dishwashers released in the last 10 years should have an adjustment option.
