For want of any handy, are you hesitating to replace your usual detergent with another that seems, on paper, to be the right one? You will see that in reality, this is not the case. Beware of the damage!
Whether you forgot to buy some or you’re in a vacation rental where there isn’t any, you’ve probably already found yourself running out of dishwasher detergent. And maybe you’ve already wanted to use another product? Big mistake.
In addition to the rinse aid which helps to remove detergent residue and prevent water marks on dishes and glasses, and the regenerating salt which will soften the water and prevent the formation of limescale deposits on heating elements and dishes, the detergent, whether in the form of tablets, gel, liquid, pellets, powder or capsules is essential for the proper functioning of your appliance.
While their names might suggest they can be swapped out, after all, if it cleans dishes by hand, why not in the machine? However, this seemingly innocuous substitution can turn into a household nightmare. Here’s why you should never put dishwashing liquid in your dishwasher.
Dishwashing liquid is designed to foam abundantly when in contact with water, a property that goes hand in hand with hand washing, but disastrous for your machine. From the first minutes of the cycle, a mountain of foam can form, come out of your appliance and invade your kitchen. A copious foam that can not only create a disaster, but also make the floor slippery and dangerous for you, as well as your family members.
And excess suds won’t just escape, they can also infiltrate the internal components of your machine: the ducts, filters and wash arms can then become clogged, reducing the efficiency of the appliance and increasing the risk of costly breakdowns. Over time, regular use of dishwashing liquid can even damage the drainage system, leading to repairs that could have been avoided.
Dishwasher detergents are specifically formulated to clean effectively without creating suds. They contain agents that fight food residue, stains and grease at high temperatures, something dishwashing liquid cannot do. Using the wrong product can result in poorly washed dishes and glasses, forcing you to restart a cycle or wash them by hand.
The next time you run out of dishwasher detergent, resist the temptation to replace it with dishwashing liquid. Keep your kitchen clean, your floor dry, and your dishwasher in good condition by using only recommended products. Your appliance and your wallet will thank you!
