A long-standing household debate over the correct way to load cutlery into the dishwasher has finally been settled by consumer experts. The guidance, which centres on safety and cleaning efficiency, offers a clear solution to a common chore that often sparks domestic disagreement.
The Great Dishwasher Debate: Handles Up or Down?
For many, loading the dishwasher is a task governed by personal habit, with some instinctively placing knives, forks, and spoons facing upwards and others opting for a handles-down approach. While there is no single "wrong" method, experts from the consumer champion Which? have now outlined the definitive best practice after weighing the pros and cons of each technique.
In an article summarised on the 27th of December 2025, Which? explained the key considerations. Placing cutlery with the handles down and business ends pointing upwards can improve cleaning. This is because items are more exposed to the water jets and it's easier to see if they are "nesting" together, which prevents proper circulation of water and detergent.
Why Safety Must Come First in Your Kitchen
However, the primary concern shifts dramatically when dealing with sharp items. "Safety is key here," Which? emphasised. Sharper implements, particularly knives, should always be loaded with their blades facing downwards to avoid accidental cuts when unloading.
This safety-first advice is echoed by major appliance manufacturers. LG recommends placing forks and spoons with handles down, while Bosch advises putting knives sharp-edge down and mixing other cutlery to prevent nesting. Beko also highlights that placing knives with handles up makes for a more comfortable and safe unloading process.
The Expert Verdict: A Hybrid Approach Wins
So, what is the final recommendation? The experts at Which? advise a pragmatic, hybrid method that prioritises safety without sacrificing cleanliness.
The safest and most effective approach is to place sharp items, like knives, facing down, while mixing other cutlery (forks and spoons) in an alternating up-and-down pattern. This prevents them from nesting together and ensures a thorough clean.
Furthermore, for any exceptionally sharp knives, such as carving knives, Which? strongly recommends washing them by hand. This not only eliminates the risk of injury when reaching into the basket but also protects the blades from being gradually blunted by the powerful dishwasher jets.
By following this simple, evidence-based guidance, households can ensure their cutlery emerges spotlessly clean while keeping the process of loading and unloading the dishwasher a safe one.
