Modern dishwashers have made washing dishes a much easier and neater task than the old-fashioned alternative. No more piles of unsightly dishes or stains on countertops from dishes waiting to be washed. The time spent slaving away with a hot dishwasher full of messy dishes is gone. The modern dishwasher has proven to be a liberating kitchen appliance. Choosing the right form of dishwasher detergent for you will only enhance your appreciation of your dishwasher.
Liquid gel detergents are a very popular form of dishwasher formula. Liquid gels tend to be milder in nature than other forms of detergent. Being water based, they definitely make for milder dishes. Liquid gels would be better suited for more ornate and decorative dishes. Liquid gel produces a large amount of foam that removes grease and food particles more gently, but may leave a soapy film in softer water systems. You may need an additional rinse when using liquid gel.
Powder tends not to need additional rinsing. The abrasive nature of the powder makes it easy to rinse off. Being an abrasive form of dishwasher formula, the powder tends to make it easier to work with the more stubborn residue found on dishes. Most powders contain some type of bleach, either oxygen or chlorine. Powdered dishwasher bleach enhances the cleaning process in both bleaching and sanitizing. Powders are an excellent option for those people who love to cook. The abrasives found in the powders work well for cleaning hardened baked-on residues found on pots and pans and serving scuffs. While these abrasives work the muscles well, they can tend to be too brutal for more formal or fashionable dishes. The abrasive tends to remain in a hardened state throughout the wash cycle and can eventually ruin more fragile parts.
Tabs are still another option. They are a perfect complement to the convenience of a dishwasher. Simply toss the tab in the tray or detergent compartment and you’re done. Lashes are pre-measured by removing porosity or dishwashing formula measurement. Ease is what the tab is all about. You may need to add rinse aid to ensure a great wash, but it’s not necessary. The tablets tend to be a bit more expensive than the other forms of dishwasher formulas.
Liquid gel, powder, and tablets all have their pros and cons. The Soap and Detergent Association feels that texture is the only overall difference. Price may be another real difference between the three. Powder tends to be the cheapest, followed by liquid, and tablets are the most expensive.
As in most buying situations, it is up to you, the consumer, to choose what is best for you. Price is always a concern. Your needs are another important factor, as well as comfort. It has data on liquid gel, powder, and tablet dishwashing formulas. You know the truth now the rest is up to you.