When it comes to loading up the dishwasher, there are a few options for your detergent. The most common kind is regular dishwashing detergent, but you may also find specific dishwasher cleaners or active tablets on the market. So what’s the difference between these two products — and which one should you use in your machine? Let’s break down this debate.
What Is Dishwasher Cleaner?
Dishwasher cleaner is a product that’s specifically designed to clean out elements of your washing machine itself. It helps remove food particles, grease, limescale build-up and other deposits that can accumulate inside over time – even after every wash cycle. Most commonly available as an active tablet form of dishwasher cleaner, they are placed in the bottom of the machine and activated when water floods in during each cycle.
What Is Regular Detergent?
Regular detergents are used for washing dishes by hand or cleaning them in a dishwasher. When using it with a machine, it must be added at certain times during each cycle so that it can effectively clean dishes before rinsing them off with fresh water. This type of detergent usually comes in liquid, powder or tab form depending on brand preference and consumer needs.
Differences Between Dishwasher Cleaners & Regular Detergents
The main difference between these two types of washer solutions is their intended purpose: while regular detergents are meant to clean dishes only, dishwasher cleaners are designed to both clean dishes and keep parts of the machine maintained for optimal performance over time.
Specific Formulations
Another key distinction between these two products is their formulations — active tablets dishwashers contain surfactants while regular detergents do not because they don’t need to penetrate into tight spaces like crevices within a washer drum where bacteria and dirt could hide out from normal cleaning action. Additionally, since many regular detergents have ingredients that aren’t compatible with all types of machines (such as those containing phosphates), they should be avoided if uncertain about compatibility issues.
Which should you use in your machine?
When deciding which product is best for your needs, consider whether you’re just looking for something basic to get the job done quickly, or if you want something more thorough than regular dish soap. For general everyday cleaning, a regular detergent such as Cascade Complete or Finish Quantum Max would give satisfactory results without any extra effort. On the other hand, if extra maintenance is required due to hard water or persistent soiling, an active tablet formulation may be worth considering. These tablets typically contain special enzymes that break down stubborn stains more effectively than standard liquids alone.
The bottom line
In conclusion, it really depends on your individual situation when choosing between regular detergents and specialised cleaners for your dishwashing needs. If all you need is something quick and easy, then a traditional liquid formula should suffice; however, if extra care is required, then investing in an active tablet formulation may prove beneficial over time. Ultimately, whichever option works best for you should be chosen based on personal preference and budget constraints.
