Why Dishwasher Soap Matters

We all have a go-to soap for our dishwashers, but not all dishwasher soaps are created equal. Using the wrong type can actually damage your appliance. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert, Richard Trethewey, demonstrates the stark difference between dish liquid and dishwasher detergent, highlighting the importance of using the correct product. Learn more about why dishwasher soap matters in our guide below.

All About Dishwasher Detergents

Dishwasher detergents are specifically formulated for automatic dishwashers. They clean effectively without producing excessive suds, which can interfere with the dishwasher’s operation.

There are several types of dishwasher detergents available on the market. Each type has its own advantages, but all work efficiently in dishwashers without producing excessive foam. They include the following:

• Gel detergents: These are easy to measure and mix with water. 
• Pod detergents: Are convenient and reduce the mess of spills. 
• Powder detergents: Can be the more economical option.
• Tablet detergents: Often come with additional cleaning agents.

How Dishwasher Detergents Work

Dishwasher detergents contain enzymes and other cleaning agents that break down food particles and grease. They also include ingredients that help prevent water spots and film on dishes. Unlike dish liquids, dishwasher detergents are low-sudsing, allowing the dishwasher’s spray arms to function properly. They effectively disperse through the wash cycle to clean dishes without leaving residue.

Dish Liquid vs. Dishwasher Detergent

Dish liquid and dishwasher detergent are formulated differently and serve distinct purposes in the kitchen.

Dish liquid, also known as dish soap, is for handwashing dishes in the sink. It’s highly concentrated and produces a lot of suds when mixed with water. This foaming action helps to lift grease and food particles from dishes when scrubbing by hand. You can also use dish liquids for general cleaning tasks around the home.

Dishwasher detergent, on the other hand, is for use in automatic dishwashers. It contains different cleaning agents and produces far fewer suds than dish liquid. 

Why Dishwasher Soap Matters

Using dish liquid in place of dishwasher detergent can lead to a variety of problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to potential damage to your dishwasher and kitchen.

The primary issue with using dish liquid in a dishwasher is the excessive production of suds. As demonstrated in the video, dish liquid creates a significant amount of foam when mixed with water, while dishwasher detergent produces very little. 

These excessive suds can then lead to:

• Clogged spray arms: Too many suds prevent the proper distribution of water and detergent, leading to poorly cleaned dishes.
• Overflow and leaks: Soap and water will leak onto your kitchen floor. It’s messy and time-consuming to clean up. It could also cause water damage to your home and present a tripping hazard.
• Potential appliance damage: Dishwashers are engineered to handle low-suds detergents. Dish soap can lead to mechanical issues over time, affecting sensors, valves, spray arms, and more. You may end up having to replace the dishwasher.

What To Do If You’ve Used the Wrong Soap

If you’ve accidentally used dish liquid in your dishwasher, don’t panic. Follow these steps to mitigate the damage and clean up the mess:

1. Stop the dishwasher immediately if you notice suds or water leaking out.
2. Open the dishwasher carefully, as there may be a large amount of foam inside.
3. Remove the dishes and any visible suds.
4. Use a wet/dry vacuum cleaner to remove as much water and foam as possible from the dishwasher basin.
5. Wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with clean, dry towels.
6. Run an empty cycle with just hot water to rinse away any remaining soap residue.
7. If suds persist, add a cup of white vinegar to the empty dishwasher and run another cycle.

Proper Use of Dishwasher Detergent

It’s important to use dishwasher detergent correctly so your dishes come out clean and your dishwasher functions properly.

• Choose the right detergent. Select a dishwasher detergent that’s compatible with your machine. Some newer dishwashers work best with specific types of detergents, such as pods or tablets.
• Consider eco-friendly options. There are several green dishwasher detergents available that use biodegradable ingredients and lack harsh chemicals for homeowners interested in lowering their footprint.
• Use the correct amount. Using too much detergent can leave residue on your dishes (and you’ll also be wasting money). Using too little may result in poor cleaning performance.
• Store your detergent. Keep your dishwasher detergent in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Moisture can cause powdered detergents to clump and reduce their effectiveness.

If you’re unsure about detergent compatibility or measurements, check your dishwasher manufacturer’s manual for more information.

Tips for Dishwasher Performance

To get the best results from your dishwasher and detergent, consider these tips:

• Check and clean the dishwasher’s filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid blockages.
• Clean your dishwasher regularly to remove buildup, improve performance, and prevent unpleasant odors.
• Load dishes properly, making sure that the spray arms can rotate freely.
• Perform monthly cleaning cycles with vinegar or specialized dishwasher cleaners.
• Scrape large food particles off dishes before loading them into the dishwasher to prevent clogs.
• Skip the prerinse to avoid wasting water.
• To cut down on utility costs and energy use, run your dishwasher with a full load on energy-efficient settings.
• Use a rinse aid to prevent water spots and improve drying performance.

Our Conclusion

Dishwasher detergent is specifically formulated for use in automatic dishwashers, while dish liquid is for handwashing dishes. By understanding the difference and using the right product, you can avoid messy overflows and have your dishes come out sparkling clean every time.