How To Properly Load the Dishwasher

It's a disagreement many parents or spouses have -- when you think no one can stack the dishwasher as well as you can. Now there is some science behind it!

I am a perfectionist about loading the dishwasher so that I can efficiently fit as many items as possible. In fact, I have actually taken back that chore from my boys because every time they try to take care of the dirty dishes, I find myself rearranging the plates and glasses anyway!

Do you go through this with your kids or spouse?

Now some really smart people from Birmingham University (with perhaps too much time on their hands?) have found what they consider to be the right way to go about loading the dishes into the dishwasher:

They say the best way is to put circle things around the cutlery basket. Carb-stained plates should go in the center so that they get the full force of the water jets. Protein-based foods (like dried egg yolks) need more contact with the detergent.

The best temperature for a wash cycle? 140 degrees (F).

And DON'T RINSE beforehand! This, they say, just wastes water. Oops! I always rinse before placing items in the dishwasher! I can't help myself!

Who is the best at stacking the dishwasher in your household?