How do I load cutlery in my dishwasher’s basket or tray?

There isn’t one direction that applies to every dishwasher. Check the loading section of the manual for your exact model and whether you have a basket, a cutlery tray, or both. The provided manufacturer guidance differs: GE’s general advice is to put forks and knives in its basket handles-up, while a Bosch manual directs users to load cutlery unsorted with eating surfaces down. Those are model-specific examples, not rules to combine or apply to every machine. [S1] [S2]

The practical starting point is to use the arrangement shown in your manual, including any diagram for the cutlery holder. If the manual is missing, look for the model number and use it to find the correct manual through the manufacturer. Don’t assume a different model’s layout is suitable just because its basket looks similar.

Follow the manual’s direction, then distribute pieces so they are not crowded together or nested. GE recommends mixing and evenly distributing utensils rather than nesting them for washing. It also cautions against slender items extending through the basket bottom, where they could impede the wash arm. Keep tall cutlery away from the front if it might prevent the detergent cup from opening. [S1]

For example, if your manual shows a basket with separate sections, use those sections as directed and check that each item stays within the basket. A quick visual check before starting can catch a piece that is wedged against another utensil, poking through the base, or standing too high near the detergent cup. These checks supplement—not replace—the model’s loading instructions.

Use the tray layout shown in your own manual; do not transfer basket directions to a tray without checking. The available guidance establishes that cutlery layouts vary by model and that the model’s manual should guide placement. It does not provide a universal tray arrangement or spacing rule for every dishwasher. [S1] [S2]

Look for a diagram that labels the tray or shows the direction of the eating surfaces. If your machine has both a tray and a removable basket, check whether the manual assigns different items to each. If the relevant instructions are unclear, note your model number and ask the manufacturer or a qualified appliance professional which arrangement applies. Avoid guessing about a feature the manual does not explain.

Yes—use the manual’s designated location for long, pointed accessories and knives. In the cited Bosch manual, those items go on the étagère, if fitted, or the knife-shelf accessory, rather than being handled like ordinary cutlery; the manual gives this as a way to reduce injury risk. [S2] GE’s guidance also warns about slim items extending through the basket bottom and tall cutlery that could prevent the detergent cup from opening. [S1]

Before starting, check that items are secured in the location your model specifies and that nothing protrudes into a moving part’s path or obstructs the detergent cup. The examples above do not establish where every dishwasher’s long or sharp items belong. If your manual does not cover a particular utensil or accessory, leave it out until you can confirm the correct placement.