Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Dishwasher top drawer removal demystified: a quick and easy tutorial

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • This guide will provide a step-by-step process on how to remove the top drawer of your KitchenAid dishwasher, ensuring a seamless and effortless experience.
  • Place the top drawer on a clean towel or rag to prevent scratches or damage.
  • Is it safe to use a dishwasher cleaner in the top drawer.

Maintaining a clean and efficient dishwasher is crucial for a hygienic kitchen. However, regular cleaning may require removing the top drawer for thorough maintenance. This guide will provide a step-by-step process on how to remove the top drawer of your KitchenAid dishwasher, ensuring a seamless and effortless experience.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning, ensure your dishwasher is unplugged and the water supply is shut off. Wear protective gloves to prevent cuts and abrasions.

Materials Required

  • Clean towels or rags
  • Screwdriver (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Dishwasher Door

Open the dishwasher door fully to access the interior.

2. Locate the Drawer Release Levers

On either side of the top drawer, you will find small levers. These levers are designed to release the drawer from its tracks.

3. Press and Hold the Levers

Simultaneously press and hold both release levers. The drawer should start to slide out slightly.

4. Slide the Drawer Out

Continue holding the release levers while gently pulling the top drawer out of the dishwasher. Be careful not to drop the drawer or damage the tracks.

5. Disconnect the Water Lines (Optional)

If your dishwasher model has water lines connected to the top drawer, you may need to disconnect them. Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamps and carefully pull the lines out.

6. Lift the Drawer Up

Once the drawer is fully extended, gently lift it upwards to remove it from the tracks.

7. Place the Drawer on a Clean Surface

Place the top drawer on a clean towel or rag to prevent scratches or damage.

Reinstalling the Top Drawer

To reinstall the top drawer, follow these steps in reverse order:

1. Lift the drawer into the tracks.
2. Lower the drawer into place.
3. Press the drawer firmly until it clicks into place.
4. Reconnect the water lines (if applicable).
5. Close the dishwasher door.

Troubleshooting

Drawer is Stuck or Difficult to Remove:

  • Ensure the release levers are fully pressed and held down.
  • Check for any obstructions in the drawer tracks.
  • Apply a small amount of lubricant to the drawer tracks.

Water Leaks When Drawer is Removed:

  • Inspect the water lines for any damage or loose connections.
  • Ensure the clamps are tightened securely.

Tips for Maintenance

  • Regularly clean the top drawer and tracks to prevent buildup.
  • Use a dishwasher cleaner to remove odors and sanitize the drawer.
  • Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as this can put strain on the drawer.

Final Thoughts: Enhancing Dishwasher Efficiency

Removing the top drawer of your KitchenAid dishwasher is a simple and essential task for maintaining its efficiency. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can effortlessly remove and reinstall the drawer, ensuring a clean and functional dishwasher for years to come.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I remove the top drawer of my KitchenAid dishwasher without pressing the levers?
A: No, pressing the release levers is crucial to safely remove the drawer.

Q: What should I do if the drawer is stuck and won’t come out?
A: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the drawer tracks and try again. If it still won’t budge, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Q: Is it safe to use a dishwasher cleaner in the top drawer?
A: Yes, dishwasher cleaners are designed to clean and sanitize the entire dishwasher, including the top drawer.

Was this page helpful?

Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
Back to top button