Dishwasher - Racks Sticking or Not Pulling Out Properly

If the Upper or Lower Racks on your Dishwasher seem to be squeaking, sticking or are not rolling out all the way, the most common cause is either a hard water mineral build-up or a build-up of detergent residue.

 

Resolving a Concern with a Dishwasher Rack Not Pulling Out Properly

Hard Water

  • Using a Rinse Agent can help minimize the build-up of detergent and hard water minerals on your dishes and on the interior of the Dishwasher. For more information, see our Dishwasher - Using Rinse Aid Properly article.

Detergent Residue

  • Dishwasher detergents can leave a white film or residue on glassware, dishes, or even the Dishwasher tub itself. Soap residue can cause the wheels or rack slides to start to stick so that they don't roll properly.

  • Use high quality detergents such as Cascade® Platinum™ ActionPacs™ or Finish® Quantum® Automatic Dishwashing Detergent.

  • You can also take a look at our Dishwasher - White Film on Glassware, Dishware and the Interior article.

If your racks are sticking or not pulling out, before considering service, try cleaning the interior of the Dishwasher using one of the methods provided below.

 

  • Dishwasher Cleaner - Use a high quality Dishwasher cleaner, such as Cascade® Platinum™ Dishwasher Cleaner or Finish® Dishwasher Cleaner.

  • Citric Acid - Follow the instructions below (can be purchased at the local supermarket).

    1. Pour the citric acid in the detergent cup and close the cover.

    2. Place the filmed, but otherwise clean, glassware and dishware in the Dishwasher. Leave silverware and other metal items out of the Dishwasher.

    3. Turn the Dishwasher on and let it run through a complete cycle without detergent. The glassware, dishware and Dishwasher should come out film free and sparkly.

  • Vinegar Rinse - Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the Dishwasher just after the detergent cup opens and let the Dishwasher complete its cycle. This may be repeated several times a year if needed.

Note: If the Upper Rack is sticking, try pulling the rack out from the center, not the side. Pulling the rack out from the side may cause the rack to bind in the slide mechanism.

 

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