HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST DISHWASHER DETERGENT FOR YOU
Your dishwasher helps turn cleaning up into an afterthought so you can focus on your making and not worry about the mess. Understanding the available dishwasher detergent options can help you find the best one for you. Use the following guide to compare different types of dishwasher detergent and their benefits.
3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF DISHWASHER DETERGENT EXPLAINED
The best dishwasher detergent varies depending on which dishwasher cycles you use and and the kind of messes you’re cleaning up. Explore the three types of dishwasher detergent below.
1. LIQUID DISHWASHER DETERGENT
This traditional dishwasher detergent is easy to use and can be found in most grocery stores. Liquid or gel dishwasher detergent typically comes in a squeezable bottle that allows you to customize your dosage for each load. Make sure to follow the instructions on the detergent packaging to prevent over or underfilling the dispenser.
2. POWDER DISHWASHER DETERGENT
Powder dishwasher detergent is another recognizable option. Many powdered detergents have spot-free formulas that prevent streaks on your dishes, which is why it is often recommended when washing clear glass.
Like liquid detergent, powder dishwasher detergent allows you to customize how much or little you add to your dispenser. To avoid overfilling with powder detergent, don’t fill past the recommended fill line of your detergent dispenser.
3. DISHWASHER DETERGENT PODS
Dishwasher detergent tablets or pods come in single-dose pouches that dissolve during a wash cycle. This option is convenient as it takes the guesswork out of doing your dishes, allowing you to load your dishes, add a pod to your dispenser and get back to making your next creation.
If you have a KitchenAid® dishwasher, high-quality premeasured tablets or pods are recommended.
DISHWASHER PODS VS. LIQUID DETERGENT: WHICH IS BETTER?
Choosing between pod or liquid dishwasher detergent depends on the brand of detergent, how you use your dishwasher and your home’s water hardness. However, dishwasher pods are generally better at reducing white film buildup on dishes compared to liquid or gel detergents.
POWDER VS. LIQUID DISHWASHER DETERGENT: WHICH IS BETTER?
Power and liquid dishwasher detergents are formulated differently, but they both have their benefits. Powders typically contain bleach and enzymes to help remove dark stains and food residue. Liquid detergents are often chosen for their convenience and chemically formulated cleaning power.
Whether you choose powder or liquid detergent depends on which option works best for you and how you do your dishes.
WHAT’S THE BEST DISHWASHER DETERGENT FOR HARD VS. SOFT WATER?
The majority of dishwasher detergents work with most levels of water hardness, but powder detergent may be better at removing hard water buildup like limescale deposits, white spots and cloudiness. Liquid and pod detergent may work better than powder with soft water.
A water softener is recommended if you have a KitchenAid® dishwasher and your home’s water has a hardness level of 15 grains or more.
WHAT’S THE BEST DISHWASHER DETERGENT TO PREVENT CLOUDINESS?
If you want to prevent cloudiness on clear glass, shop for a detergent that’s formulated to provide a streak-free dry. You can also help prevent cloudiness by not overfilling the dispenser, as too much detergent can lead to residue buildup on your dishes and in your dishwasher.
CAN YOU HAND WASH DISHES WITH DISHWASHER DETERGENT?
Dishwasher detergent should only be used during a dishwasher wash cycle. Washing dishes by hand requires a soap that can create suds and lather, and dishwasher detergent doesn’t produce the suds that liquid dish soap does.
Always use dishwasher detergent and dish soap as instructed on the packaging.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A DISHWASHER DETERGENT?
When shopping for a dishwasher detergent, consider the following factors to find the best detergent for you.
Water hardness or softness: Powder detergents work better with hard water while liquid and pod detergents work well with soft water. Learn more about your home’s water hardness to help you choose the best dishwasher detergent for you.
Types of dishes: Some detergents, like powder, work better for clear glass dishes than other options.
- Wash cycle temperature: Powder detergents don’t dissolve well with cold water, so you may want to choose another option if you frequently choose cooler water temperatures.
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EXPLORE KITCHENAID® DISHWASHERS
KitchenAid® dishwashers help you clean up your dishes so you can focus on your next culinary inspiration. Explore features on select dishwasher models like the FreeFlex™ Third Rack for more dish storage or the ProWash™ Cycle that adjusts wash time and water temperatures based on a soil sensor.
