If you're experiencing a white film on your dishes after running them through a Maytag dishwasher, it could be due to a few different factors. Here are some steps you can take to help get rid of the white film:
Check water hardness: Hard water can contribute to the formation of mineral deposits and white film on dishes. Test your water hardness level using a water testing kit or contact your local water utility provider to obtain information about your water's hardness level. If your water is hard, consider using a water softener or installing a water softening system for your dishwasher.
Clean the dishwasher: Start by cleaning the dishwasher itself. Remove any food particles or debris from the filter, spray arms, and detergent dispenser. Wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth or sponge. You can also run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar placed in the top rack to help remove any buildup or residue.
Check detergent usage: Using too much or the wrong type of detergent can contribute to the white film on dishes. Ensure you are using a dishwasher detergent specifically designed for use in automatic dishwashers and follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage guidelines. Avoid using too much detergent, as excessive sudsing can lead to residue and film on dishes.
Add rinse aid: Rinse aid helps to prevent spots and film on dishes by aiding in the drying process. Ensure that your dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser is filled according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you are already using rinse aid, consider adjusting the dosage level to a higher setting to see if it improves the situation.
Adjust wash cycle settings: Experiment with different wash cycle settings on your dishwasher. Some dishwashers offer options specifically designed for hard water or extra rinsing, which can help reduce film and residue on dishes.
Try a citric acid rinse: Citric acid can help remove mineral deposits and film from dishes. You can try running an empty dishwasher cycle with a cup of citric acid powder or a packet of unsweetened lemonade mix placed in the detergent dispenser. Follow the instructions on the citric acid product for the proper dosage and cycle.
If you have followed these steps and the white film persists, it may be worth contacting Maytag customer support or a professional appliance technician to further diagnose and address the issue. They may be able to provide specific recommendations or perform maintenance on your dishwasher to improve its performance.