The manual for the KitchenAid KDTM604KPS says, before you close the door, make sure no items block the detergent dispenser, since a blocked lid will not open. The lid has its own action: to close it, place the detergent, put a finger on the lid as shown and slide it closed, pressing firmly until it clicks; to open it, push OPEN and the lid slides open. KitchenAid recommends tablets and packs placed in the main compartment, added just before starting and stored in a cool dry place, so a caked tablet or a damp pack is the usual reason a lid sticks.
Differential
Likely causes of “KitchenAid dishwasher detergent door will not open or detergent remains”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A dish or utensil blocks the detergent lid
What separates it The lid is shut after the cycle with detergent inside
How to confirm Reload the lower rack so nothing blocks the dispenser when the door closes
- 2
The lid was not slid fully closed and clicked
What separates it The lid opens early or leaves detergent behind because it was not slid fully closed and clicked
How to confirm Slide it closed with a finger and press firmly until it clicks
- 3
Old, damp or caked detergent
What separates it The lid sticks or the tablet is wet inside after the cycle
How to confirm Use fresh detergent stored in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place
- 4
Too much or the wrong detergent forming suds
What separates it There is foam and a lid coated in residue because too much or the wrong detergent forms suds
How to confirm Use automatic dishwasher detergent in the right amount, and replace the rinse aid cap
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- Whether the lid opened at all during the cycle
- The detergent type and how it was stored
- What was in the lower rack near the dispenser
Try in this order
0 of 5 completedCheck the space
ReversibleMake sure that when the dishwasher door is closed no items are blocking the detergent dispenser. Load items as the manual's pictures show.
Load and close the lid correctly
ReversiblePlace the selected detergent in the dispenser, put a finger on the lid and slide it closed, then press firmly until it clicks. To open it, push OPEN.
Use the main compartment
ReversibleAlways place detergents, tablets and packs in the main compartment and slide the lid to close. KitchenAid recommends tablets and packs for convenience and improved performance.
Add detergent just before starting
ReversibleFresh automatic detergent cleans better. Store the container tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
Clean the dispenser area
ReversibleUse affresh Dishwasher Cleaner monthly. Check the spray arms are not blocked and that the water action can reach the dispenser.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Loading rules that protect the dispenser
- Remove leftover food, bones and toothpicks, remove labels, angle the dirtiest surface down and in toward the spray, avoid overlapping bowls and plates that trap food, place plastics, small plates and glasses in the upper rack, and check the spray arms are not blocked by items in the racks.
- Controls, delay and control lock
- Delay runs the dishwasher later or in off-peak hours: pick a cycle and options, press Delay, press START/RESUME and close the door firmly, and note the countdown needs START/RESUME pressed again any time the door is opened. Control Lock is turned on or off by holding the model's lock button for 3 seconds; the door still opens while locked, and pressing a button flashes the light three times. If the door is opened or power is interrupted the Start/Resume light flashes, and the door must be pushed firmly closed within 3 seconds of pressing Start/Resume.
- Detergent door not opening
- A detergent cup that stays shut may be jammed by caked detergent, a blocked latch or an item that stops the lid. Clean the cup and the latch with a damp cloth and make sure dishes do not block the spray arm or the door.
- Using the right detergent
- Use powder or gel as the manual recommends and avoid too much, which clumps. Fill the cup before starting and close it until it clicks. If the door fails to open during the wash, a technician may need to replace the actuator.
- Parts for this problem on the KDTM604 (RepairClinic, 2026-09-21)
- detergent dispenser, part number W11412300, at $115.21; latch- door, part number W11412299, at $25.90.
- Other models this page answers
- These steps also fit models KDTM704, KDTM804, KDTE204, KDTE304, KDFM404.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !If the lid stays shut with clear space and fresh detergent, contact KitchenAid service
- !If the latch is cracked or the lid will not click, the dispenser needs a service part
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
KitchenAid's own manual for this model, English pages 1 to 8: operating, cycle guide, options, care and the Problem Solver table.
KitchenAid's own help articles for its dishwashers, each; the article for this page is named in the page's notes.
KitchenAid's own help articles on drying, cleaning, spotting, cycle length, sounds and interior cleaning.
KitchenAid's own page for this model's manuals and support.
Parts and list prices as shown on RepairClinic's parts search for this model number on 2026-09-21.
Exact questions
Common questions
Why did my detergent lid not open?+
Something may be blocking it; KitchenAid says to make sure no items block the dispenser when the door closes.
How do I open and close the lid?+
Push OPEN and the lid slides open; to close it, slide it and press firmly until it clicks.
Can I use powder?+
Yes, following the package instructions. Tablets and packs are recommended.
Should I run a rinse cycle if I am not washing soon?+
Yes, run a rinse cycle with no detergent, if you are not washing soon.
Does hard water matter?+
Hard water can leave residue and needs more detergent and rinse aid.
Can I use hand soap?+
No. It causes suds and can stop the dishwasher filling or working properly.
What if suds form?+
See the suds steps on the leaking page and let them dissipate.
Why does the detergent cup stay closed?+
A jam, caked detergent or a faulty actuator.
Can I use pods?+
Yes, if the manual allows.