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You should follow the instructions listed on the detergent packaging and in your dishwasher user manual. Often, this means inserting the tablet or pod into the detergent dispenser (and not in the bottom of the dishwasher). If you put the pod anywhere else, it might dissolve too early in the cycle and fail to clean your dishes properly.

To get rid of standing water in your dishwasher, first try activating the drain mechanism by pressing and holding the cancel button for at least three seconds. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to do some troubleshooting to drain the standing water from the dishwasher. This will involve shutting off the power, then scooping out the water, cleaning the drain filter, and clearing the air gap. You’ll also want to run the garbage disposal and check the drain hose for clogs.

Water may linger at the bottom of your dishwasher if the cycle is interrupted or if there’s a clog in the system. Begin by pressing and holding the cancel button to ensure the cycle finishes. You may need to check the filter, hose, air gap, and garbage disposal for clogs if it still doesn't drain. If the problem persists and there is no visible clog, a professional will need to assess and fix the problem for you.

No, you do not need a garbage disposal to have a dishwasher. A dishwasher will work without one, and while it's rare to see a home with a dishwasher that doesn't have a disposal, it is possible. The two appliances pair well and are often installed together because a disposal simplifies meal cleanup.

However, your dishwasher should not be used as a replacement for a garbage disposal. Subjecting it to continuous food leftovers can lead to major clogs. If you choose not to install a garbage disposal, you should thoroughly rinse your plates or scrape excess food into the trash or a compost pile before loading them into the dishwasher to prevent plumbing issues.