This is a random mixed load, the most common type you will have. Make sure dishes are properly loaded to insure that water can reach the soiled surfaces. The wash arm in the bottom sprays water up. The tower that rises in the center sends water out over the dishes to wash the items in the upper rack. A spray arm in the top washes down also. Make sure to place tall items to the outside so the upper wash arm is not blocked.
The top rack is best for glasses, cups and saucers. Cups and glasses fit best along the sides. This is the place for dishwasher-safe plastics, too. Make sure small plastic items are lodged in tightly so they can't fall onto the heating unit. Arrange stemware so that it cannot move easily. Don't let the glasses touch each other.
Sauce pans, mixing bowls and other small items may be placed--face down--in the top rack. The top rack is handy for all kinds of odd shapes. Be sure the force of water and detergent can reach soiled surfaces. WATCH OUT FOR THIS. The wash tower rises through the center of the bottom rack during the wash and rinse portions of the cycle. Don't block it or load tall things next to it. Also, be careful not to let a portion of an item such as a pot or dish handle extend through the bottom rack. This could block the wash arm and cause poor washing results. 7
