Beko dw450 dishwasher not cleaning properly — cleaning cups

Use only checks that match the exact appliance or system and its official guide.

1. Check 1

   Confirm the rating-plate model is DW450 and record whether the problem affects every cup in the upper basket or only cups in particular positions. Compare the lower-basket result in the same completed load, and note whether the cups are wet but dirty or nearly dry.

   Expected result: All upper-basket cups are dirty while lower-basket items are clean, only cups behind a tall item are dirty, or both baskets are dirty.

   Next step: For a top-only pattern, continue with the upper-basket checks. If both baskets are dirty, include the detergent, programme, and filter checks and arrange service if the result persists.

   Why this matters

   Why: A top-only pattern makes loading or upper spray coverage the useful first branch; a whole-load problem is less specific and can also involve detergent, programme choice, filters, water supply, or an internal wash system.

2. Check 2

   Reload a test load with cups upright but their openings facing down, leaving each cup separated rather than nested or pressed against another item. Keep tall plates, pans, or utensils below from covering the upper spray path, and do not overload the fixed cup racks.

   Expected result: The cups have open downward-facing interiors with clear gaps and no item blocks the spray arm, or a cup is nested, tilted closed, or shadowed by a tall item.

   Next step: Run one appropriate programme with the corrected load if there is no safety concern. If the same upper positions remain dirty, continue to the spray-arm and filter checks instead of adding more detergent blindly.

   Why this matters

   Why: Beko says top-rack cups and glasses should face down so water can reach and drain from their surfaces, and that obstructed spray-arm movement or disorderly loading causes uncleaned dishes. Improvement after reloading supports a coverage or loading cause.

3. Check 3

   Switch the dishwasher off, disconnect power, and use the exact DW450 manual to access only the user-serviceable upper spray arm. Check its holes for food or scale residue and turn the arm gently by hand to confirm it is not rubbing or blocked; clean holes only with a small non-metallic brush and refit the arm exactly as shown by the manual.

   Expected result: The upper arm has blocked holes, does not turn freely, is loose or mis-seated, or is clean, secure, and free to turn.

   Next step: Correct only the accessible obstruction or seating allowed by the DW450 manual, then test once. If the arm remains dry, does not rotate, or the top rack is still dirty, stop and arrange service rather than opening the pump or water-distribution system.

   Why this matters

   Why: Beko's care guidance identifies residue in spray-arm nozzles as a cause of reduced spray and says the arm must be replaced correctly; a clean, freely turning arm makes a simple nozzle blockage less likely but does not prove water pressure is adequate.

4. Check 4

   While power remains disconnected, inspect the accessible filter assembly for food residue and refit every filter section correctly; then check that the detergent dispenser closes and that rinse aid is present. Do not operate the dishwasher without its filters and do not put detergent directly into the tub unless the exact manual calls for it for that programme.

   Expected result: The filter is clogged or incorrectly seated, the dispenser is not closing, rinse aid is empty, or these accessible items are clean and correctly fitted.

   Next step: Correct only the visible filter, dispenser, or rinse-aid issue, then test one suitable cycle. If only the upper basket remains dirty, return to the upper-spray branch and arrange service if it persists.

   Why this matters

   Why: Beko links dirty or misplaced filters, inadequate detergent, and inadequate rinse aid with poor cleaning or drying. A clean, correctly fitted filter with a functioning dispenser makes those causes less likely, but it cannot prove the upper spray circuit is working.

5. Check 5

   Choose a programme appropriate for the cups' soil level using the DW450 programme list and the exact manual; do not use a short or gentle programme as the only test for dried-on residue. Use only dishwasher detergent and the amount directed for that product and programme.

   Expected result: The cups are lightly soiled and improve on the appropriate programme, or dried residue remains despite correct loading, a clear spray arm, a seated filter, and correct detergent.

   Next step: Keep the programme that matches the load. If the lower basket is clean but upper cups still fail, stop changing settings and arrange authorised service to check upper water distribution.

   Why this matters

   Why: Beko lists five DW450 programmes and its dishwasher guidance says programme choice and soil level affect results. Improvement only after a stronger appropriate programme supports a programme or soil mismatch; persistent top-only failure after the accessible checks points beyond settings.