Dishwashers are essential items when it comes to household items cleaning. For efficiency, they require detergents that are specifically made for dishwashers. Note that dishwasher detergents differ greatly from dishwashing liquid. Whereas dishwasher detergents are detergents made specifically for washing dishes using a dishwasher, dishwashing liquids are made to be used when washing dishes by hands.
Dishwasher detergents come in two main types. Determining which dishwasher detergent works best requires some effort. With a good choice of detergent, even a poor dishwasher can perform exceptionally good. The two main types include:
- Tablet forms. Tablet dishwashers are the most popular and commonly used detergents. So to say, they make over two-thirds of the general detergent sales. This can be attributed to their convenience and better performance. However, compared to other types, they are quite expensive.
- Powder forms. As the name suggests, they are formulated in powder form. These detergents have specific usage instructions and used in recommended amounts.
- Gel detergents are the third minor detergent type.
That said, when searching for the best dishwasher detergent, begin by reviewing the type before proceeding to other considerations. Always go for a brand that performs the best, is the best value for your money and is environmentally friendly. These factors are primarily based on the composition of individual detergent. This will finalize your search on what is the best dishwasher detergent to use. Therefore, it is prudent to highlight the common composition of top dishwasher detergents.
Composition of various detergents
Different detergents contain a different combination of ingredients. The common include:
- Phosphates: This ingredient bind magnesium and calcium ions thus preventing the deposition of hard-water limescale deposits.
- Alkaline salts: alkaline salts are the primary component of powder detergents. They attack and dissolve grease. However, if swallowed, they are potentially corrosive. Sodium carbonates, alkali metal hydroxides, and metasilicates are common examples of alkaline salts used.
- Enzymes: Just like in the body, enzymes break protein based deposits, oil, lipid and fat deposits.
- Anti-corrosion agents: Sodium silicate is a common anti-corrosive agent used. They prevent corrosion of dishwasher components.
- Surfactants: Non-ionic surfactants lower the prevailing surface tension of water, emulsifies oils and lipids and prevents droplet spotting when dishes dry.
- Bleaching agents: Oxygen based agents break up organic deposits.
Other components of dishwashing detergents include:
- Anti-forming agents which reduce foam as they interfere with washing action.
- Additives that slow down the removal of glaze from glazed ceramics.
- Anti-caking agents
- Starches especially in tablet based detergents.
- Gelling agents
- Sand
With this information at hand, you can make a prudent choice when it comes to finding the best dishwasher detergent in the market. Mentioned below are categorized best performing detergents
Best Powdered Detergent: Finish Quantum
Finish Quantum are powder based tabs that are made of three different parts. Dubbed the three-chamber technology, the active ingredients of this detergent are activated during the cleaning process. Just to mention, the Finish Quantum is the number 1 recommended dishwasher detergent brand in the world. Thanks to its quick solving power gel that washes away residues facilitating ultimate clean and shine.
When using the Finish Quantum Tabs, there is no need of pre-soaking or pre-rinsing the dishes. The Powerball penetrates and breaks down all the residues including even 24hour dried food. With such advanced power, stains from tea and coffee are nothing to worry about. The tabs are sold in different package sizes. One Finish Quantum Tab is enough to clean loads of dishes in the dishwasher.
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How to use the Finish Quantum Tabs
Like other powdered detergents, the Finish Quantum Tabs are easy to use.
- Remove one tablet and unwrap from the protective wrapper.
- Place the tablet in a main dishwasher detergent dispenser. Use only one tablet per wash load.
- Ensure that all the items are dishwasher safe. Separate silver from stainless steel materials.
- Wash items in accordance with the provided manufacturer’s instructions.
- Run the dishwasher maintaining an optimal temperature of 125-140 degrees.
Pros of the Finish Quantum Tabs
- Has high cleaning power
- Leaves your dishes sparkling and shiny
- Has a water-soluble protective film
- Is biodegradable thus safe to the environment
- The tabs are safe for septic systems
- Easy to use
Cons of Finish Quantum Tabs
- Are relatively expensive
Best Scent: Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic Dish Packs
Using Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic soap packs in washing dishes results in sparkling dishes, flatware, and glassware. Oxygen bleach in the pack loads easily into the dishwasher’s soap cup. This product is safe to be used in all dishwashing machines. Tea and coffee are common stains easily removed by this detergent.
This agent rated to be the best for scent as it comes with lavender, lemon verbena, basil, clean day and geranium scents. Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic pack is gentle enough protecting your dishes as well as scrubbing them clean. Each packet of Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic dishwashing detergent comes in loads of 20.
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Ingredients of Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic Dish Pack
- Sodium sulfate – softens water thus boosts cleaning performance.
- Sodium carbonate – boosts surfactants for optimum cleaning.
- Sodium citrate – also softens water.
- Sodium carbonate peroxide – enhances cleaning power and stain removal
- Sodium polyacrylate – is an acrylic polymer that disperses food particles thus prevents their re-deposition on the cleaned surfaces.
- Hydrated silica – helps in preventing product clumping.
- Basil, parsley and black pepper – provide fragrance.
- Enzymes – protease and amylase enzymes remove protein and starch stains respectively.
Other ingredients of this exceptional agent include:
- Liner alcohol ethoxylate
- Fragrance
- Sodium silicate
- Water
Pros of Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic Dish Pack
Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic detergents are:
- Easy to use
- 5-star rated efficiency
- Has good power output
Cons of Mrs. Meyer’s Automatic Dish Pack
- There is limited availability as it is difficult to find in local stores.
Best Gel Pack: Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack
Use of phosphates as dishwasher detergent ingredients is slowly being phased out. This is perhaps due to its negative effects on the environment. That said, it is worth noting that the Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack is a phosphate free and highly effective dishwashing detergent. As the name suggests, the detergents are gel based making them easy to use.
The Cascade Complete All-In-One action packs clean burnt on messes with one wash. Besides, pre-washing is not needed. It has premium food cleaning powers that eliminate stubborn foods. Additionally, it has a built-in rinse action and grease fighting power. This makes your dishes not only clean but also dazzle.
Rated the best dishwasher detergent in North America, the Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack has the formulation that prevents hard water filming. This leaves both the silverware and dishwasher sparkling.
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Ingredients of the Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack
- Sodium carbonate – softens water thus less spotting and filming on dishes.
- Sodium sulfate – optimizes the PH levels of water for optimal cleaning.
- Amylase and protease enzymes
- Methyl glycine diacetic acid
- Modified polyacrylate
- Sodium silicate
- Amine cobalt salt
- Alcohol alkoxylate – is a wetting and antifoam agent that reduces film on dishes by preventing deposition of minerals present in hard water on dishes.
Usage instructions for Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack
- Dry hands before handling this detergent as packs tend to dissolve quickly in water.
- Use one Actionpack for one dish load.
- Avoid puncturing, unwrapping or pulling apart the pacs
- Place one pac and run the dishwasher.
- Always ensure that you reseal the bag after use.
Pros of the Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack
- Is phosphate free
- Easy to use
- No pre-washing needed
- Has excellent grease-fighting power
- Leaves no films and spots both on the dishes and dishwasher.
Cons of Cascade Complete All-In-One Pack
- May be damaging to the eyes
- Negatively stains skin or clothing
Best Eco-Friendly: Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs
Ever since its inception, the Seventh Generation has been manufacturing dishwashing products with minimal environmental impacts. The Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs isn’t any different. These packs are scent and dye free. This best dishwasher detergent comes in packs of 20 loads. Currently, it is undoubtedly the best natural dishwasher detergent.
With clear usage instructions and mess-free packaging, the Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs outscores other detergents. They are easy to use and notably distinct.
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Ingredients of Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs
Some of the primary ingredients if this agent includes:
- Sodium carbonate
- Citric acid
- Sodium sulfate
- Sodium magnesium silicate
- Protease and amylase enzymes
- Sodium polyaspartate
- Polyvinyl alcohol
- Sodium carbonate peroxide
How to use Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs
- Ensure that all items can be washed in a dishwasher.
- Separate silver, aluminum, and stainless-steel items to avoid discoloration.
- Load the soiled items with the soiled surfaces facing the center and ensure that tall items are away from the center.
- Add one pack of the detergent in the dispenser cup. Do not unwrap or puncture the pack. Also, avoid handling with wet hands and reseal the package.
Pros of Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs
- Are phosphate and scent free
- Easy to use with clear usage instructions.
- Minimized hard water filming
- Cleans exceptionally well
- Affordable
Cons of Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs
- There is limited local availability
- Complaints of minimal hard water residue
Others:
The Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs
The Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs adds the proficient list of Smarty Dish Tabs available in the market currently. The tabs are loaded with naturally derived and biodegradable ingredients that eliminate stubborn dirt in the dishes without resorting to harmful chemicals such as bleach and phosphates. Compared to other dishwashing detergents leading brands, the Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs is sometimes effective due to its non-toxic nature.
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Ingredients of Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs
As mentioned, the smarty tabs are made from naturally derived ingredients. They include:
- Sodium disilicate – optimizes the water PH levels for better cleaning.
- TEAD – is an oxidizing cleaner.
- Protease and amylase enzymes – potential cleaning enzymes.
- Sodium metasilicate – optimises PH levels.
- Alginic acid – holds the tablets together.
- Organic acid or salts – anti-spotting agents.
- Tetrasodium iminodisuccinate – acts as a water softener.
- Sodium gluconate – optimises water PH, an anti-spotting agent, and anti-rusting agent.
Pros of Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs
- Easy to use
- Free from phosphate toxins and fragrance
- Leaves no spotting on silverware and dishwasher machine
- Affordable
- Biodegradable
- Comes in premeasured doses that it to dishwasher dispensers
Cons of Method’s Smarty Dish Tabs
- Limited local availability
The Up and Up Automatic Dishwashing Detergent
This is yet another powdered detergent with utmost power and high dishwashing detergent ratings. The Up and Up Automatic Dishwashing Detergent, though tough to pour, is an easy to use dishwashing detergent of incredible value. It leaves glasses and silverware free of spots. It is also a solid performer when it comes to cleaning dishes, cookware, and flatware.
Enthusiast of various dishwasher detergents commend the manufacturers for packing this agent in white color which is a milestone away from other generic packaging. This detergent comes in a myriad of scents. However, lemon is the most prevalent and common scent. Note that the scent isn’t strong but just enough to provide reassurance of clean dishes.
Pros of the Up and Up Automatic Dishwashing Detergent
- Cleans overly well on both normal and heavy-duty settings.
- Easy to open, close and use.
- Usage directions are clearly indicated
- Minimal spotting especially with hard water.
- Affordable
Cons of Up and Up Automatic Dishwashing Detergent
- There is limited local availability
- Some users complain that the powders stick together.
The Ecover Ecological Automatic Dishwasher Powder
The Ecover ecological automatic dishwasher powder dishwashing detergent is a powerful agent from Ecover. With over 30 years pioneering for a clean and plant based detergent with mineral ingredients, the Ecover ecological automatic dishwasher powder was developed. The detergent is not only biodegradable but also fish friendly and suitable for septic tanks.
The product’s imminent power removes stuck food materials resulting in sparkling clan dishes. They are also made from renewable plant based mineral ingredients free from the potentially hazardous phosphates.
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Ingredients of Ecover Ecological Automatic Dishwasher Powder
Some of the key ingredients of this agent include:
- Sodium citrate
- Sodium carbonate
- Disodium disilicate
- Sodium bicarbonate
- Capryl glucoside
- Glycerin
- Subtilisin
- Sodium gluconate
How to use Ecover Ecological Automatic Dishwasher Powder
- Begin by removing all food remnants from your dishes.
- Remove the wrapper from the tablet and place it in the dispenser
- Run the machine
- Note that silver, aluminum, antique, crystal, copper, plastic, wood ivory, bone and brass kitchenware are not safe.
Pros of Ecover Ecological Automatic Dishwasher Powder
- Made from biodegradable ingredients.
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Minimal hard water spotting
Cons of Ecover Ecological Automatic Dishwasher Powder
- Pre-washing is important to remove stuck remnants
- There is limited local availability
The CitraDish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder
There are countable safe and effective dishwashing detergents for automatic dishwashers. The CitraDish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder is one of them. This agent cleans the dishes ascertaining spotless and shiny result. It also has rinse aids thus no need of pre-washing the dishes.
It is made with sweet, juicy and delightful effervescent fragrance that awes your nasal sinuses whenever you run the dishwasher. Additionally, it is made from all-natural and biodegradable ingredients that are safe for septic systems. It contains no phosphates, chlorine bleach or synthetic perfumes and dyes.
Ingredients of CitraDish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder
The ingredients of this agents include:
- Cleaning agents such as sodium percarbonate, alloxylated fatty alcohols, and oxygen bleach.
- Non-animal derived enzymes.
- Water softeners such as sodium citrate and sodium carbonate.
- Spot prevention agents including sodium polyacrylate polymer.
- Processing aids including sodium chloride and sodium sulfate.
- Rinse aids
- Natural citrus extracts
Pros of CitraDish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder
- Safe for automatic dishwashers.
- Have no phosphates and potentially toxic perfumes
- Safe for septic systems
- Cleans well with minimal water filming
- Easy to use
Cons of CitraDish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder
- There is limited local availability
- Leaves slightly noticeable hard water residue
Best Liquid Dishwasher Detergent: The Coles Ultra Plus Dishwasher Power Pods
Manufacturers of this best dishwasher detergent offer multiple dishwashing liquids that help in achieving clean dishes with a fresh and zesty scent. Coles detergents are specifically designed for sensitive skins. Besides, they offer super strength with efficient results. The three main dishwashing liquids from Coles include:
- The ultra-concentrated lime dishwashing liquid
- The ultra-concentrated lemon dishwashing liquid
- The ultra-concentrated sensitive dishwashing liquid
Coles detergents not only come in liquid options but also have powder forms for powder detergents enthusiasts. Besides dishwashing detergents, Coles are famous for producing excellent floor, multiple, toilet and bathroom cleaners. Manufacturers don’t claim of producing the most effective detergents in the market but rather focuses on value for your money. So to say, there is an effective balance between quality, price, and effectiveness.
Ingredients of Coles Ultra Plus Dishwasher Power Pods
Like other powerful dishwashing agents, the Coles Ultra Plus Dishwasher Power Pods is made from all-natural ingredients. Some of the key ingredients include:
- Cleaning agents such as sodium percarbonate
- Anti-spotting agents
- Anti-forming agents
- Water softeners
- Enzymes
- Rinse aids
Pros of Coles Ultra Plus Dishwasher Power Pods
- Easy to use
- Are relatively affordable
- Cleans effectively with minimal silverware and dishwasher filming
- Made from all-natural ingredients
Cons of Coles Ultra Plus Dishwasher Power Pods
- There is limited local availability
- Not effective in coffee and red wine removal
The Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs
With their new improvement, the Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs offer a better, improved and highly concentrated dishwasher formula. This ascertains better cleaning results not only for the dished but also leaves the dishwasher sparkly.
Miele products have adapted to the need of eradicating toxic phosphate products in the market. That said, the Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs are phosphate free. Their ease of use is the other factor to awe about. They come in 60 tabs wrapped in a self-dissolving wrapper. This implies that your hands won’t get soapy when using.
The magic behind this product is based on a powerful enzyme with excellent cleaning formula. This formula protects against glassware etching, silverware, and stainless-steel corrosion. These tabs can also be used with any dishwasher brand. Ingredients of Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs are similar with other powerful top-rated dishwasher detergents.
Pros of Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs
- Has a powerful enzyme formula
- Comes with a water-soluble wrapper
- Provides excellent silverware and stainless protection
- Safe with any dishwasher brand
- Provides improved protection against glass etching
Cons of Miele Care Collection Multi Dishwasher Tabs
- Limited ingredient information and quantities
- There is limited product availability
- Are relatively expensive
The OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs
Say goodbye to regular pre-washing and rewashing of dishes with the OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs. This detergent is made to provide utmost cleanliness to stuck-on foods, stains, and stubborn spots. The OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs is popular for removing the toughest baked on and greasy messes in pots and pans leaving them spotless.
It is a versatile detergent that not only provides excellent cleanliness but also leaves the dishes sparkly clean with great shine. It also does not affect the dishwasher. It is a perfect remedy for users touted with struggles of hard water filled with cloudy soapy scum. This makes it the best dishwasher detergent for hardwater. With such power, the OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs is made powerful and concentrated crystals.
How to Use OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs
- Handle the packs with a dry hand.
- You should also not unwrap or open the packs.
- Place one pack in the dishwasher dispenser and close. Reseal the bag after use.
- Run the dishwasher.
Pros of OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs
- Pre-washing of dishes isn’t necessary
- Made from powerful ingredients
- Has a lemon fragrance leaving both the dishwasher and the dishes with a fresh smell
- Easy to use
- Works well with all dishwasher types/brands
Cons of OxiClean Fresh Clean Dishwasher Detergent Packs
- There is limited availability
- There is less information on the ingredient profile and quantity
Conclusion
Cleaning dishes is a common household activity. The myriad of dishwasher detergent choices makes it difficult finding what is the best dishwasher detergent. As mentioned, there are powder, tabs and gel derivatives. Powders factually have the lowest cost per load. However, they can be quite messy to pour. Tabs are rather convenient but a little bit pricey. Gels split and try a balance between cost and ease of use. However, they are associated with minimal dish spotting and filming.
From this, the dilemma of settling for the right product becomes real. This is why having a look at the buyer’s guide is of immense importance. Besides, consider other options or alternatives of finding the best product. For instance, consult friends and other users of references and referrals, read reviews from product websites and other methods of eliciting this vital information. Good luck!!
