Dishwasher tub or dishes stained orange, brown, yellow or rust-colored

Color tells you the cause. Orange/yellow is tomato and other carotene foods (worse near the heater) and fades. Brown is iron in the water. Rust spots with a rough feel are usually rack coating worn through to steel, or rusty items in the load. White is hard-water film (see dishwasher-cloudy-glassware). Most are cosmetic; worn racks and iron need a fix.

Cross-checked ~20 min easyBrands: All

Before you start

  • Do not mix dishwasher cleaners with chlorine bleach

Diagnostic steps

Unlock all 4 steps with expected values

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OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work.

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Dishwasher tub or dishes stained orange, brown, yellow or rust-colored · OnCall Tech