Dishwashing Detergents Amazing Power 101

What are automatic dish-washing detergents?

Automatic dishwashing detergents are powders, liquids, or tablets which are specially designed to work with automatic dishwashers and are not to be used for hand washing dishes.

How do automatic dish-washing detergents work?

When you wash dishes by hand, it is the physical scrubbing and scouring motion that removes grease and dried-on food. If you are expecting a machine to do the same job without any hands and fingers, it needs some powerful chemicals to make that happen.

What’s in automatic dish-washing detergents?

Most automatic dish-washing detergents contain chlorine compounds (bleach) as well as enzymes, corrosion inhibitors, phosphates, perfumes, and colorants that are activated when they come in contact with water.

Maintaining the health of your dishwasher

Follow these tips to prolong the life of your machine:

1. Review your dishwasher’s owner’s manual for recommended maintenance instructions.
2. Always scrape off food particles in the trash before putting plates or tableware into the dishwasher to prevent clogs, blockages, and foul smells.
3. Clean your dishwasher once a month, run the dishwasher empty, with one cup of white vinegar. This will keep the machine clean, deodorized, and fresh and will remove any slime and soap scum.
4. When the dishwasher has completed its cycle, leave the door ajar slightly to air dry. Good airflow prevents musty smells.