Jayne Gandara

Written by Jayne Gandara

Modified & Updated: 01 Oct 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

5-best-dishwasher-detergent
Source: Thespruce.com

When it comes to keeping your dishes clean and sparkling, using the right dishwasher detergent is essential. 5 Best Dishwasher Detergent is a guide to help you find the most effective products for your kitchen. Whether you're dealing with tough food stains or just want a convenient option for everyday use, this list will offer a variety of options to suit your needs. By using one of these top-rated detergents, you can ensure that your dishes come out spotless and ready to use again.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 9/10

Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent Pods offer superior cleaning power with the strength to tackle tough, dried-on food and stains. The convenient pre-measured pods eliminate guesswork and reduce wastage, while requiring no pre-rinsing. Experience virtually spot-free sparkling dishes and a refreshing mountain freshness scent with these pods. Compatible with all dishwasher sizes, including cabinet ready dishes.

Key Features

  • 2X the Dawn grease fighting power and 2X the scrubbing power
  • 40% larger liquid top for increased cleaning power
  • Eliminates need for pre-rinsing
  • Mountain freshness scent
  • Saves water by reducing pre-washing

Specifications

  • Size: 62 Count (Pack of 1)

Pros

  • Superb cleaning power
  • Convenient pre-measured pods
  • Refreshing mountain freshness scent
  • Eliminates pre-rinsing hassle

Cons

  • Pricier than other brands
  • Not suitable for Mirro pans

Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs have simplified and improved dishwashing routines with their superior cleaning power and convenience. While a bit pricier, they deliver spot-free, gleaming dishes without the need for pre-rinsing. However, caution is advised with certain cookware. Overall, highly recommended for a premium cleaning experience.

Overall Score: 9/10

Finish's All in 1 Powerball Dishwashing Tablets are an outstanding product that delivers exceptional results consistently. With their powerful cleaning properties, convenience, and fresh scent, they turn the chore of dishwashing into a hassle-free task. For their effective cleaning performance, no-residue finish, and excellent value, these dish tabs rightly earn a five-star rating. They are an indispensable addition to any kitchen cleaning routine.

Key Features

  • Help soften the toughest food residues for easy removal
  • Powerful cleaners remove even the toughest stains without pre-soaking
  • Each tab provides a premeasured dose of detergent
  • Rinse agent action helps eliminate spots and film
  • Rated as the recommended brand worldwide

Specifications

  • Color: Blue Leopard
  • Dimension: 3.00Lx8.00Wx8.38H
  • Size: 94 Count (Pack of 1)

Pros

  • Individually wrapped tabs for convenience
  • No filmy residue on dishes
  • Pleasant fresh scent
  • Excellent value for 94 tablets

Cons

  • Difficult-to-open foil packaging
  • Some instances of broken and crumbled tabs
  • Leaves a white film on dishes for some users

Finish’s All in 1 Powerball Dishwashing Tablets are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a powerful, convenient, and cost-effective dishwasher detergent. Despite some minor drawbacks related to packaging and breakage, the overall cleaning performance, no-residue finish, and fresh scent make these tabs a top contender in the market. With a five-star rating, it’s hard to find a reason not to recommend them.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Better Life Dishwasher Detergent Gel is an ultra-concentrated, unscented dishwasher soap that effectively powers through stains and stuck-on food while being kinder to the environment. Made with no petroleum solvents, chlorine, bleach, added alcohols, or parabens, this detergent is septic safe and gentle on children and pets. Simply shake the bottle and squirt 1 tbsp of detergent into your automatic dishwasher for best results. However, some users have reported issues with soap residue and excessive suds. Overall, it offers a natural, non-toxic alternative for those seeking a cleaner dishwasher solution.

Key Features

  • Grease-kicking formula
  • Compatible with any automatic dishwasher
  • Septic safe and made with no harsh ingredients
  • Environmentally friendly with plant-derived elements
  • Easy application for best results

Specifications

  • Dimension: 5.50Lx3.75Wx10.25H
  • Size: 30 Ounce (Pack of 2)

Pros

  • Affordable non-toxic alternative
  • Easy and efficient to use
  • Environmentally friendly

Cons

  • Issues with soap residue
  • Excessive suds reported by some users
  • May require more than recommended amount per load

The Better Life Dishwasher Detergent Gel offers a natural, non-toxic alternative for those seeking a cleaner dishwasher solution. While some users have reported issues with soap residue and excessive suds, it remains an affordable and environmentally friendly option for households looking to reduce their use of harsh chemicals. With the right adjustments, such as increasing the amount used per load, it can effectively clean dishes and cut grease while remaining gentler on the environment.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder offers a natural solution to cleaning dishes without the use of harsh chemicals. It effectively cuts through grease and tough food stains, leaving dishes spot-free and brilliantly shiny. The fragrance-free formula is hypoallergenic and free of scents and dyes, making it suitable for individuals with fragrance sensitivities. Made from plant and mineral-based ingredients, this dishwasher detergent is septic-safe and environmentally friendly. The 3.17-pound bag provides 80 loads, and each scoop is conveniently included for easy measuring. With a customer rating of 4.4 out of 5, this detergent has received positive reviews for its cleaning performance and eco-friendly nature.

Key Features

  • Contains 3.17 Pound (80 Loads) Bag of Grab Green Natural Fragrance Free Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder
  • Naturally Effective at Cutting Through Grease and Stuck-On Food
  • Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic, Perfect for Individuals with Fragrance Sensitivities
  • Made from Naturally Derived Plant and Mineral-Based Ingredients, No Harsh Chemicals
  • Proudly Cruelty-Free, Made in the USA

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 9.50Lx4.50Wx10.00H
  • Size: 3.17 Pound (Pack of 1)

Pros

  • Eco-friendly and septic-safe
  • Powerful cleaning performance
  • Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
  • Made from plant and mineral-based ingredients

Cons

  • Inconvenient plastic packaging and scoop
  • Some complaints about change in formula

The Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder offers an effective, eco-friendly solution to cleaning dishes without harsh chemicals. It has received positive reviews for its cleaning performance and fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula. While some users have expressed concerns about the packaging and formula change, the overall consensus is highly favorable.

Overall Score: 9/10

Experience the new Finish Quantum Infinity Shine, the ultimate solution for a spotless and sparkling clean every time. With powerful scrubbing and grease-cutting abilities, these dishwashing tablets not only leave your dishes pristine but also protect glassware with lasting shine. The 100% better drying vs detergent alone and the ability to remove spots and residue make it one of the best in the market. This 70-count pack is also complemented by the Jet-Dry Rinse Aid for enhanced dishwashing performance.

Key Features

  • NEW FINISH QUANTUM INFINITY SHINE: 3 fast dissolving chambers
  • Scrubbing power to remove toughest stuck on food
  • Gel with grease-cutting power for all messes
  • 100% better drying vs detergent alone
  • Removes spots & residue for brilliant shine
  • Glass Protection ingredient for lasting shine

Specifications

  • Size: 2 Piece Set

Pros

  • Powerful cleaning and grease-cutting abilities
  • Leaves dishes and glasses spotless and shining
  • Protects glassware with lasting shine
  • Efficient drying and removal of spots/residue

Cons

  • Gel packs may get stuck in the dispenser
  • Some users experienced cloudy residue on dishes

Overall, the Finish Quantum Infinity Shine offers outstanding dishwashing performance with its powerful cleaning, efficient drying, and residue-free shine. While some users may encounter issues with the gel packs, the majority of customers are highly satisfied with the quality and results of this product.

Best Dishwasher Detergent Buyer's Guide

How to Choose the Best Dishwasher Detergent

Consider the Type of Dishwasher:

  • Check if the detergent is suitable for your dishwasher type (e.g. standard, compact, portable).

Ingredients to Look for:

  • Look for detergents with enzymes like protease, amylase, and lipase to help break down food particles.
  • Check for non-toxic, eco-friendly ingredients if that is important to you.

Formulation:

  • Powder, gel, or tab? Consider the convenience and effectiveness of each type.

Dishwasher and Water Hardness:

  • If you have hard water, choose a detergent specifically formulated for hard water to prevent residue.

Scented or Unscented:

  • Some people prefer unscented detergents to avoid adding fragrance to their clean dishes.

Packaging Size:

  • Consider the size of the packaging and the number of loads it can clean to determine the cost per load.

Cost:

  • Compare prices of different detergents and consider the cost per load.

User Reviews:

  • Check out reviews from other users to see how well the detergent performs in real-life situations.

Brand Reputation:

  • Consider purchasing from trusted brands with a history of producing quality dishwasher detergents.

Special Requirements:

  • If you have special requirements such as removing hard water deposits or sanitizing dishes, look for detergents that meet those needs.

Compatibility with Dishwasher Additives:

  • If you use rinse aids or dishwasher cleaners, make sure the detergent is compatible with these additives.

Environmental Impact:

  • Consider the environmental impact of the detergent and choose a product that aligns with your values.

Effectiveness in Different Water Temperature:

  • Check if the detergent is recommended for the water temperature your dishwasher uses (e.g. hot, warm, cold).

Stain Removal:

  • Look for detergents that are effective at removing tough stains and grease.

Health and Safety:

  • Consider the safety of the detergent for you and your family, especially if you have young children or pets.

Ease of Use:

  • Consider the ease of measuring and pouring the detergent, as well as any specific instructions for best results.

Compliance with Dishwasher Manual:

  • Make sure the detergent you choose complies with the recommendations in your dishwasher's manual to avoid damage.

Frequently Asked Questions about 5 Best Dishwasher Detergent

What is the best way to use dishwasher detergent?

The best way to use dishwasher detergent is to follow the instructions on the packaging. Make sure to fill the dispenser with the right amount of detergent and use the appropriate dishwasher cycle for the best results.

Can I use regular dish soap in a dishwasher?

No, regular dish soap should not be used in a dishwasher. It can create too many suds and cause the dishwasher to overflow. It is best to use dishwasher detergent specifically designed for use in dishwashers.

How do I know which dishwasher detergent is the best?

The best dishwasher detergent for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. You can consider factors such as price, performance, and environmental impact when choosing the best detergent for your dishwasher.

Are there any natural alternatives to dishwasher detergent?

Yes, there are natural alternatives to dishwasher detergent such as vinegar, baking soda, and citric acid. These can be used to effectively clean dishes in the dishwasher without harsh chemicals.

Can I use too much dishwasher detergent?

Yes, using too much dishwasher detergent can actually be harmful. It can leave a residue on dishes, cause excess suds, and even damage the dishwasher. It’s important to use the recommended amount of detergent for each load.

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