Should you put silverware upside down when loading a dishwasher?

When loading a dishwasher, silverware, such as butter knives, should be placed handle side up for safety reasons. Spoons and forks can be placed some with handles up and others down. This prevents the utensils becoming nested, which can lead to improper washing of these items.

All eating utensils should be placed in the silverware basket. However, cooking spoons or forks that have long handles should be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher in a horizontal position. Long serving spoons can be placed facing in a downward position. Before placing any silverware into the dishwasher, it is important to scrape any remaining food from the utensils, and it is not necessary to pre-rinse them.