A temperature compensation method for a turbidity sensor in an appliance for washing articles is provided. The method includes the steps of: measuring temperature and turbidity of a liquid, such as water, for washing the articles, calculating a turbidity value corresponding to a predetermined reference temperature; and adjusting the measured turbidity of the liquid with respect to the calculated turbidity value so as to provide a temperature compensated turbidity measurement. The method can further include the step of measuring temperature and turbidity of substantially particle-free liquid. This allows for calculating a normalized turbidity value which is substantially free or independent from temperature variation effects.