KitchenAid dishwasher detergent dispenser notice — owners of KitchenAid Architect Series and PrintShield dishwashers should use only automatic dishwasher detergents and avoid overloading the dispenser, which can cause mechanism failure and poor washing results.
Why this matters
Modern dishwashers use precisely metered detergent amounts. Overloading the dispenser cup, using non-dishwasher soap, or substituting powders in a liquid-only dispenser can jam the mechanism, trigger suds errors, and damage internal components.
Approved detergent types
- Automatic dishwasher detergent only — never regular dish soap
- HE-rated detergent for best performance on high-efficiency KitchenAid models
- Tablets, gel packs, powder, and liquid all work in most dispensers — check manual for specifics
- Never use laundry detergent in the dishwasher
Proper loading
Fill the detergent cup to the indicated level — typically 1–2 tablespoons for a normal load. Close the cover completely until it clicks. An improperly closed cover will not release detergent at the correct time in the cycle.
When to call a technician
Dispenser that fails to open during the cycle, visible cracks in the cup or cover, or detergent residue remaining after a cycle all indicate dispenser mechanism issues. Call our KitchenAid dishwasher service for diagnosis.