Depending on your needs and preferences, the best dishwasher cleaner can vary. There are several reputable dishwasher cleaner brands and products available, and the choice may depend on factors such as your dishwasher type, water hardness, and the specific issues you are trying to tackle.
A good dishwasher cleaner also removes grease, limescale, and food residue that can accumulate over time.
As we explore the top dishwasher cleaner options, we’ll help you make an informed decision to ensure your dishwasher runs smoothly for years to come.
5 Best Dishwasher Detergents
If you want to keep your dishwasher in top shape, you need to choose the best dishwasher cleaner. Well-maintained dishwashers not only ensure spotless dishes but also last longer.
Popular brands like Affresh and Finish, as well as eco-friendly choices like Lemi Shine, are available on the market. Selecting the right dishwasher cleaner can make all the difference in combating hard water stains, eliminating lingering odours, or simply improving your dishwasher’s performance.
The Finish Liquid Dishwasher Cleaner
For people who want to avoid the messiness of tablet or powder cleaners, this is the most popular and widely used dishwasher cleaner in a convenient bottle tablet. Due to its dual-action formula, it breaks down and removes grease and food residues from your dishwasher’s internal components and even the tiniest spaces.
The best results will be obtained if you use this cleaner once a month while your dishwasher is empty. The only downside is that it’s only intended for one-time use.
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
Affresh is a very popular dishwasher cleaner among people who are looking for a natural and affordable product. This product is highly rated and effective for eliminating unpleasant odours, limescale, and mineral deposits. It is available as a tablet and is most effective when used once a month. When your appliance is loaded, you can use it, but for a thorough and hygienic clean, it’s recommended to run a normal cycle with just the tablet inside.
Glisten Dishwasher Cleaner
Hard water is best removed with Glisten’s dishwasher cleaner. In addition to removing built-up residues, it disinfects your appliance, killing bacteria and germs and removing bad odours. Liquid form is available and is designed to be used periodically to ensure optimal performance and hygiene in dishwashers.
Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner
Lemi Shine offers a dishwasher cleaner that’s free from harsh chemicals if you prefer a more natural approach. Even so, it effectively removes hard water stains, mineral deposits, and food particles, leaving your appliance clean and smelling fresh. It removes hard water buildup and odours from dishwashers without the use of phosphates.
Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Cleaner
Among dishwasher detergent brands, Cascade is known for its powerful cleaner that removes tough stains and residues, restoring your dishwasher’s performance. They offer cleaning pods with a concentrated formula that shows the best results when used monthly.
What Factors to Consider When Buying a Dishwasher?
Consider the following factors when choosing a dishwasher cleaner:
- Type of Dishwasher.Certain dishwasher cleaners are only suitable for dishwashers with stainless steel interiors or plastic interiors. Choose a product that is compatible with your dishwasher.
- Water Hardness.If you live in an area with hard water, you may need a cleaner that removes mineral deposits.
- Cleaning Frequency.How often you clean your dishwasher can also affect your choice. Some products are meant for regular maintenance, while others are more intensive and used less frequently.
- Eco-friendly.For eco-conscious individuals, choose cleaners that are less harsh on the environment or consider DIY cleaning.
- The price of dishwasher cleaners can vary, so take your budget into account when shopping.
The best dishwasher cleaner for you will depend on your specific circumstances and preferences. Cleaning your dishwasher regularly maintains its performance and prevents odours and buildup. For best results, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your chosen dishwasher cleaner.
Dishwasher Cleaners: What Ingredients to Look For?
For more effective dishwasher cleaning and maintenance, look for these specific ingredients in dishwasher cleaners:
Citric Acid
A common ingredient in dishwasher cleaners is citric acid, which is highly effective at breaking down limescale, mineral deposits, and hard water stains. It cleans the interior of the dishwasher and prevents clogs in the spray arms and nozzles.
Soda ash
Water softeners such as sodium carbonate are crucial for areas with hard water because they help prevent mineral deposits from forming on dishes and dishwasher components.
Enzymes
Proteins, starches, and food residues on dishes are broken down by enzymes. Dishwasher cleaners with these agents provide a thorough cleaning by enhancing the cleaning power of the detergent.
Surfactants
By reducing surface tension, surfactants allow dishwasher cleaner to spread evenly and reach all parts of the machine. Grease residues and food particles are removed with their help.
Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach, or are overly acidic. Dishwashers with antibacterial properties should provide you with clean and fresh dishes in addition to citric acid and surfactants.
If you’re looking for eco-friendly alternatives, look for EPA and EWG certifications. To identify the product’s safety and sustainability, you can also look for the USDA BioPreferred Programme and GreenCircle.
Some people prefer making their dishwasher cleaner using simple ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, or citric acid. In addition to being cost-effective, these DIY methods are also environmentally friendly.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Dishwasher
Keeping your dishwasher in good working condition will not only save you money but will also ensure that it runs efficiently. The following tips will help you maximise your dishwasher’s lifespan:
Regular cleaning
At least once a month, clean the dishwasher’s interior, including the spray arms, filters, and gaskets. To prevent clogs and odours, remove any food particles, debris, or mineral buildup. For smooth operation, professional domestic cleaning is recommended a few times a year.
Clean before loading
Scrape excess food off dishes before loading them into the dishwasher to prevent food particles from clogging the filters.
Dishwasher loading
Ensure that dishes are loaded according to the manufacturer’s instructions and that the dishwasher is not overloaded. When the racks and doors are overloaded, poor cleaning results can occur.
Choose suitable detergent
Avoid using regular dish soap or handwashing liquid, which can create excessive suds and damage the dishwasher, and instead use high-quality dishwasher detergent.
Practising regular maintenance and following these tips can significantly extend the life of your dishwasher.
Takeaways
- The dishwasher cleaner should also remove grease, limescale, and food residue that accumulates over time;
- Dishwasher cleaners vary in effectiveness depending on your needs;
- Dishwashers that are well maintained ensure spotless dishes, as well as a longer lifespan;
- Professional dishwasher cleaning is recommended several times a year.
