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Dishwasher detergent is essential for getting your dishes squeaky clean. Compare tablet, powder and gel types to decide which is the right product for your machine.
Name | Avg. price (USD) | Type | Size | Phosphate free? | Purchase |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Finish All in One Max![]() | $39 | Tablets | 78 tablets | Yes | Buy now |
Cascade Complete Gel![]() | $6 | Gel | 75 oz | Yes | Buy now |
Puracy Natural Dishwasher Detergent Packs![]() | $14 | Tablets | 50 tablets | Yes | Buy now |
Seventh Generation Auto Dish Powder![]() | $22 | Powder | 2 75-oz boxes | Yes | Buy now |
Cascade Platinum Plus![]() | $19 | Tablets | 70 tablets | Yes | Buy now |
OxiClean Extreme Power Crystals![]() | $18 | Tablets | 41 tablets | Yes | Buy now |
Finish Advanced Liquid![]() | $5 | Gel | 75 oz | Yes | Buy now |
Dishwasher detergents are water-soluble cleaning products made specifically for washing dishes in a dishwasher. There are three main types: tablet, powder and gel.
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Several DIY detergent alternatives are also available. They’re typically compatible with most dishwashers, but may not perform as well as the commercial formulas. Keep in mind that using certain ingredients could void your dishwasher warranty. Check yours before trying a new DIY detergent.
When trying a DIY alternative for the first time, test a small batch first. The effectiveness of the formula can vary depending on your individual dishwasher and the type of water in your house.
Commonly used DIY dishwasher detergent ingredients include:
Using the right dishwasher detergent can help you get squeaky clean dishes without having to scrub and soak them first. Compare different types to suit your washing needs and preferences.
To choose our list of the best dishwashing detergents, we compared factors like type, price, efficiency and environmental-friendliness.
What’s the difference between dishwasher detergent and dishwashing soap?
Dishwashing soap is made for washing dishes by hand. If used in the dishwasher, dishwashing soap can produce excess suds and cause your dishwasher to overflow, potentially causing leaks or flooding in your home and damage your dishwasher’s drainage system. Only use dishwasher detergent inside your dishwasher, since it’s been specifically formulated for this purpose.
What is rinse aid?
Rinse aid, or rinsing agent, is used in the rinse cycle to eliminate residue from food and detergent. It can enhance your dishwasher’s dry performance, minimizes water spotting on plates and glasses and prevents film from forming on dishes. It’s usually already included in tablets, but not in powder or gel detergents.
How safe is dishwasher detergent?
Many popular brands of detergent contain harmful chemicals. Ensure your detergent is stored out of reach of children and pets, in a child-resistant container and close the packaging properly each time. Detergent can be very dangerous if swallowed. Only fill your dishwasher with detergent just before starting a cycle. Afterwards, clean any residue immediately.
There are many safe and eco-friendly options available, but remember to check the labels before you buy anything.
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