It will surprise absolutely no one to learn that there is an optimal way to load a dishwasher, and that the majority of you are doing it completely wrong. 

From our experience, in fact, many people seem to view the racks and the spaces provided within the dishwasher as some form of obstacle to be overcome by inserting a bowl or plate at a jaunty angle, rather than using it for its intended purpose. But enough of our dishwasher based rant, some kind soul has decided to put together an entire Flickr album dedicated to teaching people how to properly load up their dishwasher.

Via Joe Clark/Flickr

Now, since all dishwashers vary, there are a few differences to be accounted for, but Flickr user Joe Clark has put together as complete a list as we've ever seen of how to get everything in to the dishwasher, and make sure that you get the most out of your cycle. After all, with the water charges coming in you wouldn't want to be wasting water AND money, would you?

Via io9.com. Main pic via Andrea Castelli/Flickr