TikTok Revealed: Where Exactly Should You Put Dishwasher Pods?

Should Dishwasher Pods Be Placed in the Detergent Compartment?

The TikTok video above suggests that most of us have been using dishwasher pods incorrectly. Unless your dishwasher has a dedicated section for pods, they should not go in the detergent dispenser compartment.

Instead, place the pods directly in the bottom of the dishwasher or in the silverware caddy — the recommended spot. Why? According to Robert Blair Plumbing, the detergent residue can leave your dishes less clean or even cause the dishwasher to clog.

Many people wondered if the pre-rinse cycle on most dishwashers would dissolve the pod before the main wash even started. I researched this claim and found another popular #CleanTok TikTok creator (from a Canadian appliance store) who argued that this is exactly why pods should go in the detergent compartment. But after watching all these videos, I ended up more confused than ever.

Where Should Dishwasher Pods Be Placed?

The short answer: it depends on your dishwasher and the type of pods you're using. Most brands use PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) as the coating, which dissolves when it contacts water. So, in the pre-rinse cycle, which is designed to remove food debris and not clean the dishes, the pods begin to dissolve. They may still be partly intact during the main wash, reducing their effectiveness. This is why the detergent compartment door stays closed until the rinse cycle finishes.

That said, I do see some merit in the argument about the sticky residue left by gel pods. That's why I prefer dishwasher tablets made from mostly powdered detergent, as they dissolve completely in my machine with less risk of clogging dispensers or gaskets. (You can check out our recommended pods here.)

To avoid the sticky issue, there are a few steps you can take. Always handle dishwasher pods with dry hands and make sure the detergent compartment is dry before placing the pods inside. If any residue remains after a cycle, simply wipe it out with a damp cloth or sponge, then dry the compartment. Also, don't forget to clean your dishwasher regularly to prevent clogs from building up over time.

The Bottom Line

The key takeaway here — and for most #CleanTok trends — is to actually read your appliance's manual. It might not be the most thrilling weekend read, but it's probably the best way to keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently. Your manual likely tells you exactly where to place detergent and which products work best in your machine.

I rent my apartment, and while I'm grateful for the dishwasher, it's not the newest or most powerful model. It took me nearly a year to realize our dishwasher even has a specific compartment for pods, and unsurprisingly, it cleans much better when I use it. So take the time to read the manual and explore the settings — happy cleaning!