Salt, rinse aid and detergent are not interchangeable. Check the fitted softener and water hardness before identifying the separate compartments.
What to check first
Bosch distinguishes salt for softening from rinse aid for drying and spotting. Settings depend on the model and local water hardness.
A worksheet you can use
Use the actual manual for compartment locations. This worksheet distinguishes functions; it is not a universal machine layout.
| Item | What to record |
|---|---|
| Detergent | Main washing dispenser |
| Rinse aid | Dedicated reservoir and maximum line |
| Dishwasher salt | Salt reservoir on softener-equipped models |
| Evidence | Model and supplier hardness report or test |
Check in this order
- Match each compartment to the manual
- Do not substitute table salt where dishwasher salt is specified
- Even with all-in-one tablets, check hardness settings and separate refill instructions
If the problem remains
If you filled the wrong compartment, do not run the machine. Tell support the product, quantity and compartment. Do not mix products or improvise a flushing cycle.
Related guide
Why Plastic Stays Wet in the Dishwasher—and What to Change
A worked example
Example: a rinse-aid warning does not call for extra detergent. Identify the warning and refill only the correct reservoir.