Dishwasher powder: shiny dishes without the extra effort

Dishwashing powders are easy to use. To install the dishwasher, you need to pour the product into the compartment and select a program. The difficulty lies in choosing a suitable and high-quality product. Powders differ from each other in composition and active components. They are selected based on the characteristics of the machine. The dishes to be washed also matter. Some products remove color and are therefore not suitable for bright finishes. We'll talk about what dishwasher powder consists of and how to choose it below.

How to choose

In order to buy a powder that will work effectively, you need to follow several rules:

• Take into account the specifications of your dishwasher . Everything matters - brand, class and detergents recommended by the manufacturer. Not all powders are universal and suit every machine the same;
• Consider the dishes you put in the dishwasher . For porcelain and painted dishes, slightly alkaline products are recommended. For other dishes, highly alkaline varieties are suitable - they remove dirt well, but have a harsh effect on the material;
• Read the composition of the powders . Experts warn buyers against using chlorine-based products. Chlorine does an excellent job of disinfecting swimming pools, but it should not enter the body. This substance is not completely washed away and poses a danger to humans. Oxygen-containing elements have a gentle effect on dishes and are harmless to humans;
• Look at the price . Buying cheap and expensive powders is equally pointless. A cheap product will ruin your car and fail to deliver on its promises. Expensive ones often contain a composition similar to budget brands. The middle price segment contains detergents, the price and quality of which correspond to each other.

Expert opinion
Galina Valerievna Borodina

More information about powders can be found on the Internet. Some information may be unreliable, but it is possible to meet people with real experience.

Conclusions on the topic

We have presented in our ranking the TOP 10 best dishwasher powders from various manufacturers. Each product presented has earned recognition from household appliance owners due to its high cleaning properties.

We have compiled a description of each powder, a list of its pros and cons, based on reviews from consumers who use this product. We hope that our rating helped you understand the huge range of cleaning consumables presented on the shelves and in online stores.

If you have experience using any of the products listed, we'd love to hear from you. Use the comment form, please write reviews and ask questions. Your opinion will help other site visitors find powder for PMM.

Kinds

Externally, all powders look like a white mixture (sometimes with multi-colored inclusions).
Powders form several groups and are used in different situations.

By composition

The composition of dishwasher detergents divides these products into three categories:

1. Slightly alkaline . Universal powders that carefully clean any dishes. To dissolve dirt, a temperature of 55 degrees is enough for them. Thanks to the enzymes contained in the composition, the dishes are cleaned of carbohydrate, protein and fatty contaminants.
2. Oxygen . In addition to bleaching dirt, these powders make dishes white. They are used for white kitchen utensils. Colored cups, plates or bowls should not be exposed to oxygen containing products.
3. Chlorine-containing . Chlorine is an aggressive component that can easily cope with stains from coffee, wine or sauce. Its use requires a number of exceptions. Chlorine has a negative effect on silver, cupronickel and crystal. Also, it is not completely washed off from the dishes, which is why it gets inside the body.

All these categories are united by the presence of the following elements:

• Citrate/percarbonate - removes stains and whitens dishes.
• Phosphate and carbonate - soften water and ensure the safety of dishes.

• Acetic/citric acid – involved in the rinsing process.
• Glycerin/sorbitol – acts as a thickener.

Form

Dishwasher detergents are available in several versions:

• Powder

A common product that has gained popularity due to its economical use. One wash uses 30 grams of product. The disadvantages of the format include the possibility of pouring past the compartment. This leads to powder particles remaining on the dishes after the procedure. Inhalation of microparticles is also considered unsafe.

• Gel

Gels are distinguished by their safety. They are universal and suitable for all types of cookware. The reason for its versatility is the absence of abrasives. Such products are multifunctional - they provide water softening, whitening and cleansing. They work with silver and porcelain. The viscous consistency does not allow the gel to miss the compartment.

• Pills

Tablets are replacing powders. They are small rectangles in which all the active components are “sealed”. Depending on the composition, it may contain both a rinse aid and a fragrance. The tablets have two features: they are not recognized by older machines and are ineffective on a short cycle. The dishwasher does not have time to recognize the product and dissolve it.

Product selection criteria

Choosing a product for a dishwasher is one of the main and important stages in the process of preparing for operation of the equipment. Not only the result of cleaning plates, cups and small items, but also the duration of use of the equipment without any repair of its components and parts depends on the quality and efficiency of the product.

Powdered products are classic and are used by many consumers. Their popularity is directly related to their relative cheapness, practicality in use and excellent effect during washing. Their direct competitor is tablets. A comparative review of two household products is given in this article.

Such substances are intended specifically for cleaning pots, plates, cutlery, cups, children's accessories and toys, and not the device in which the process takes place

Experts recommend following the following rules for choosing a product:

1. Select substances according to the class and type of washing unit.
2. Consider the material of the kitchen utensils - painted, glass or with decorative elements.
3. Carefully study the list of components indicated on the packaging.

To purchase a quality product, you need to know the composition of various brands and types of products, as well as the rules for their use. Depending on the type of kitchenware and the material from which it is made, you will need to choose products with different compositions.

Priorities of environmental cleanliness

Most dishwasher users prefer detergents that belong to the “Eco” group. The prevailing opinion about the safety of such substances contributed to an increase in demand for these products and, accordingly, an increase in the price range.

This type of substance is regularly tested by authorized bodies, which evaluate them according to European standards and regulations.

During the experiments, it was proven that eco-products have a lower concentration of active ingredients. Therefore, the occurrence of allergic reactions when using environmentally friendly products is minimal.

The effectiveness of cleaning plates, pots, cups, cutlery using these substances allows you to achieve similar results as when using products with a chemical composition

Before choosing a product, you should determine the criteria that are most important in a particular product. In practice, eco-substances are characterized by high cost, low cleaning efficiency and high consumption.

Compared to competing brands, such products have lower consumer ratings regarding the quality of cleaning ceramic, glass and porcelain products.

Features of the chemical composition

All cleaning chemicals consist of several active components that help to perfectly clean the surface of products when exposed to high and low temperatures. The powder for the unit must be selected depending on the material of the dishes.

A specific type of product is suitable for a specific type of product, so before choosing, you should familiarize yourself with the components of the product.

Funds are conventionally divided into the following types:

• environmentally friendly - without any phosphate or chlorine-containing inclusions;
• chlorine-containing;
• phosphate-chlorine-containing;
• phosphate-containing.

Eco-products operate due to the presence of active oxygen and other natural components. They do not contain aggressive substances that can negatively affect the consumer if the recommended dosage is exceeded.

Chlorine-containing products are suitable for cleaning cups, ceramics and earthenware. However, this type of product is not recommended for washing fragile glass, crystal, silver and porcelain items.

When cleaning plastic utensils using this product, the surface may become discolored.

Due to the high efficiency of the product, these items can be easily washed from stubborn stains, for example, tea and other brightly colored drinks - compote, wine

Products containing phosphates are designed to effectively and quickly clean products when using high-hardness water. Its low concentration inside the chamber allows it to soften the water. This product is suitable for cleaning glass and porcelain products.

Properties of active components

To effectively clean kitchen utensils, powdered products containing a large number of components are used.

Each substance has special properties inherent only to chemicals, which makes it possible to obtain high cleaning results during the operation of dishwashers

Main components, active ingredients and their properties:

1. Chlorine. Disinfects, eliminates stubborn odors and stubborn stains.
2. Phosphates. Substances that reduce water hardness and enhance the effect of the product.
3. Alkaline salts. Silicate, sodium citrate, tripolyphosphates, trisodium phosphate - improve the colloidal structure of the product, promote more effective and durable formation of films around places of contamination, create a favorable environment for washing products, and prevent the occurrence of corrosive processes.
4. Sodium sulfate. Increases cleaning power.
5. Bleach. Destroys colored stains through exposure to oxygen particles.
6. Polycarboxylate . Does not allow contaminant residues to re-deposit on the surface of products.
7. Glycerol. Maintains the required viscosity of the product.
8. Polyaspartate. It is of natural origin, prevents the appearance of limescale on the surface of dishes and inside the appliance chamber, has a water softening effect, and improves washing results.
9. Tensides. They make it easier to wash away dirt from metal, ceramic or even plastic dishes.
10. Surfactant Superficially acts on stains of dirt and grease, effectively removing them.

Most products contain enzymes (proteases, amylase, lipase).

The substances break down molecules of fat, proteins and polysaccharides, and also do an excellent job of removing dried food residues, for example, after porridge, potatoes, chocolate.

In addition to these substances, the composition may also contain other components of natural or synthetic origin, which have an enhancing effect on cleaning products.

When using the recommended dosages of powder, such substances are completely washed out during the rinsing process and do not have a negative effect on the body, although only testing can show accurate data.

How to use

The algorithm for pouring powder into the machine consists of three simple steps:

1. Find the detergent compartment and open it. It should open without much effort.
2. Pour the dose specified by the manufacturer into the well.
3. Close the compartment and select the appropriate washing program.

Some dishwashers do not have compartment markings. To understand the structure of the machine, take the instructions. The powder compartment can be confused with the rinsing compartment. As a result, the washing process will not proceed correctly.

Please note that the powder should not be poured into the compartment to the very edge. Different brands of detergents have different dosages. Before using the product, you need to read the information on the product packaging. There are brands that include dispensers. These dispensers measure the amount of substance needed for one wash.

Machines equipped with a half-load function require less powder. If you choose this program, then you need to fall asleep with half the amount of product than usual. This mode requires a small amount of dishes. A full portion of powder is not needed in such a situation.

You may be interested in: TOP 8 tabletop dishwashers

How to use the powder

Where and how much detergent should I put in the dishwasher? Look at the packaging: depending on the manufacturer, the dose is a little more or less. Many manufacturers include a measuring spoon or cup in the package.

It is not recommended to exceed the dosage indicated on the box. Then the particles are poorly washed out, remain on the dishes or form a lot of foam, which can lead to leakage.

Every dishwasher has a dispenser on the door. Open it and pour granules into the special compartment. If you are using the half load mode, reduce the dosage by half.

Be sure to find out in advance whether the powder is suitable for a particular cookware. Abrasive particles can damage delicate items: crystal, porcelain.

The best dishwasher powders

BRAVIX

This manufacturer is not popular due to the fact that it is not well known. Meanwhile, users appreciate it for its economical consumption and absence of odors after washing. The powder does not leave smudges or other traces of its presence on the dishes. It is excellent for whitening dishes due to oxygen-containing components. The concentration of the product allows you to load it in small doses.

With moderate consumption, a package weighing 2 kilograms is used for 10-11 months. As the number of washes increases, this period shortens. BRAVIX is not available in all stores and hypermarkets. Sometimes you have to “hunt” for him.

The advantages of the product include:

• Value for money.
• Slow consumption of funds.

• No unpleasant fragrance.
• Effective cleansing without traces of powder.

SOMAT STANDARD

The manufacturer of the powder is Henkel, which has won the trust of customers with the quality of its products. The presence of a lid-shaped dispenser simplifies the use of the product. With normal powder consumption, a standard package is enough for 90-100 washes. The product is not universal - it is designed for washing dishes.

For flavoring, whitening and care, you will need to purchase additional products. Thanks to its simple composition, manufacturers have made the powder affordable.

SOMAT has the following advantages:

• Ergonomic packaging.
• Unsaturated aroma.

• No ingredients that damage cookware.
• Ease of use.

SODASAN

German-made powder, which belongs to the environmentally friendly line. Manufacturers have eliminated the use of potentially toxic ingredients such as chlorine. The product cleans dishes and protects the machine from the spread of scale. Useful components eliminate stains from kitchen utensils and give them shine.

For a fully loaded dishwasher, 15 grams of the substance is enough. The neutral composition allows the powder to be used even for washing children's dishes.

Buyers choose SODASAN for the following reasons:

• Non-aggressive composition.
• Multifunctionality.

• Low consumption.
• Wide scope of application - the powder copes with cleaning pans.

TOP HOUSE OXYPLUS

The product is universal, but comes in a powder format.

The manufacturer claims three functions that it copes with:

1. Destroys germs.
2. Softens mineralized water.
3. Cleans dishes deeply.

The powder is used by families with children, as well as people who have individual water sources. The product works great with well water and completely disinfects it.

Among TOP HOUSE OXYOLUS we highlight the main ones:

• The presence of an antibacterial effect.
• Dissolution of all types of plaque.

• Soft effect on all materials - ceramics, enamel, wood, glass, etc.;
• Comfortable plastic handle.

The powder packaging does not have a dispenser. To pour the correct dose you will need an additional container or a good eye.

PACLAN BRILEO

The powder is produced by a Polish company. It is sold in two weight categories - 1 kilogram and 2.5. The product completely dissolves in water and does not leave streaks on dishes or inside the dishwasher. The product shows equally good results in cold and warm water. Buyers are attracted by the pricing policy of manufacturers. Paclan Brileo costs 40% -50% cheaper than similar products.

The powder is not claimed to be multifunctional. To clean the machine you will need to buy salt and other components. When working with the product, it is advisable to set the machine to a long mode - otherwise it will not come off completely.

The positive aspects of Paclan Brileo include the following:

• Economical consumption (lower than declared by the manufacturer).
• Low cost.

• No obsessive odor.
• Safe components.

FRESHBUBBLE

The powder contains surfactants (surfactants), which give it concentration. The product cleanses all types of dirt and makes dishes shine. Among other competitors, the product stands out due to its hypoallergenicity. It is used for adult and children's dishes.

The powder is gentle on the machine and does not contribute to the appearance of scale. Works in both hot and cold water. Does not contain chlorine and other coarse elements.

FRESHBUBBLE has several main advantages:

• Low consumption (10 grams per cycle).
• Versatility.

• Favorable price (from 250 rubles per kilogram).
• Hypoallergenic.

Popular powder brands

Due to the large assortment of household chemicals on the market, deciding on a specific product is not so easy. Cost, components, cleaning efficiency, consumption are the main parameters that you should pay attention to when purchasing a product.

The presented rating is based on the results of testing by laboratory specialists for compliance with the declared quality, composition indicated on the packaging and washing efficiency.

1st place – Somat (Henkel)

The product is produced in an easy-to-use container with an ergonomic handle and dispenser. A volume of 2.5 kg is enough for 80 or more times. Ideal for both high and low temperature washing.

Products are packaged in 1.5, 2.5, 3 kg. The average cost for 2.5 kg is 600-700 rubles, and the minimum cost for a 1.5 kg package is from 549 rubles

Advantages:

• low consumption;
• presence of a dispenser;
• high class of purification;
• low price;
• neutral aroma;
• presence of enzymes.

The powder is produced in two different versions - with the effect of soda and in the classic version. The soda effect allows you to remove the most difficult and even food stains that have dried over a long period of time.

Flaws:

• increased foaming in eco mode;
• Insufficient quality of washing pots, baking trays and frying pans.

For best results, it is recommended to use the product together with dishwasher rinse aid and salt.

For plates and cups that are not too dirty, it is recommended to pour 30 g into the device. detergent mixture, and for more complex stains - 45 g.

2nd place – FINISH (Reckitt Benckiser)

Available in 1 and 2.5 kg containers. The cost is from 429 rubles per kg. The product is intended for cleaning metal, clay, ceramic, plastic and glass products.

Its main active ingredient is sodium tripolyphosphate (from 15 to 30%). Improved cleansing effect is achieved through oxygen-containing bleach

The StainSoaker component allows you to wash the most stubborn food stains without pre-rinsing or soaking the dishes. Copes perfectly with marks on the surface of products from lipstick, tea, compotes, providing an ideal result.

The powder has 2 scent options - original (neutral) and with a citrus note of lemon. The product must be poured into a special compartment in the device in a volume of up to 40 g. subject to full load.

Features of using FINISH in a dishwasher are demonstrated in the video:

III place – CLARO (Austria)

An inexpensive and effective means for cleaning various types and degrees of soiling of kitchen utensils. The products are produced in cardboard boxes of 2.5-3 kg. The price for one package is from 750 rubles.

The mixture consists of three types of granules that are responsible for a specific function:

• green – cleans stubborn stains, removes food debris and greasy deposits;
• white – provide excellent washing results due to oxygen-containing bleach;
• blue - promotes quick drying of products and adds shine to the surface.

The composition contains phosphates (up to 30%), phosphonates, enzymes and other active ingredients.

Among the advantages are significant savings, since there is no need to use additional tools for the machine. Its components perform the function of protecting against scale and also softening water.

An extra-class product that is suitable for all types of dishwashers. To wash 10-12 sets of plates, cups, glasses, etc., you need to use 40 g. substances.

IV place – SODOSAN (Germany)

Environmentally friendly powder for any type of dishwasher from a German manufacturer. The product is positioned as an ideal product for use by people prone to allergic reactions. It is also actively used for cleaning children's dishes.

The cost of products is from 655 rubles per kilogram package and from 1500 rubles for 2.5 kg.

A hypoallergenic product without any fragrances, it perfectly removes greasy, dried food residues, and lipstick marks on glasses and cups. In addition to high-quality cleaning, the active components prevent the formation of scale on the dishes and also give them a shiny appearance.

The product contains soda, organic polyaspartate and alcohol sulfate, which do not have a negative effect on health

Not recommended for washing silver, porcelain and crystal items. For 1 cycle you need to use 15 g. products provided that plates and pans are moderately soiled. For more stubborn stains, the amount can be increased by no more than 20-30%. A volume of 1 kg is enough for up to 66 procedures.

V place – ECOVER (Belgium)

More expensive than the previous product, but no less effective organic powder. Available in the form of a concentrated substance in small packages of 1.36 kg and for a longer period of use - 10 kg. The cost of an economy package of 1.36 kg is 1090 rubles.

The product is made on the basis of mineral and plant substances. The product does not contain components such as phosphates, phosphanates, or bio-accumulating materials.

The powder has a pleasant smell and good physical properties - it perfectly removes grease deposits and old stains. Does not leave soapy streaks and has low consumption

Since the substance is highly concentrated, it is used in small doses - from 20 to 50 mg, depending on the number of items and the degree of contamination. The substance is completely biodegradable without having a negative impact on the environment.

The video shows how ECOVER is filled:

VI place – AMWAY (USA)

High conc. powder Works great at cleaning all types of stains. The 1.4 kg package is intended for 70 or more cycles. The cost of the product is from 1100 rubles per pack.

Has a pleasant citrus aroma. The product is non-allergic and therefore suitable for washing children's toys, bottles, plates, cups and other products.

The substance perfectly removes fat, dried particles from porridge, scrambled eggs, vegetables, film from starch and prevents the appearance of scale.

The product contains oxygen bleach and active enzymes that easily remove heavy stains. Not recommended for cleaning aluminum and silver items. You can pour the substance into the bottom of the machine or into the dispenser compartment.

The amount of powder should be determined taking into account the degree of contamination of the products. For the standard mode, provided the device is fully loaded, 10 g is sufficient, the maximum safe and recommended dosage is 20 g. If the water is very hard, special salt should be used.

VII place – AlmaWin (Germany)

A German-made product based on organic detergents, designed for modern models of cars. Suitable for use in resource saving mode while the device is operating.

The products have a high price - from 1089 rubles per 1.25 kg package. For frequent use, family packaging is provided - 3 and 5 kg.

The phosphate-free composition did not deteriorate the properties, and the combination of bicarbonate and sodium silicate together with soda softens the water. The sodium citrate component prevents the formation of plaque on products when high temperature conditions are turned on.

Plant surfactants perfectly clean the surface of pots, plates and cutlery, and oxygen-based bleach allows you to improve the properties of the product when washed in water from 50 degrees

The product has a light eucalyptus aroma.

A 1.25 kg package is enough for 50 cycles, provided that the product is used in recommended doses - 15-25 g.

What you need for a dishwasher

What form of dishwasher detergent do you use?

GelTablet

Previously, it was repeatedly said that powder alone is not enough for the dishwasher to work correctly.

The minimum set of dishwasher owners includes three items:

• Salt . The product helps soften water and clean the contents of the machine. If you do not use salt, scale appears on internal parts much earlier. Salt is also needed for water with high calcium levels. Without it, the ion exchanger will fail, and so will the machine;
• Rinse aid . The product combines two functions - accelerating drying and preventing stains. The product is required for use with powder or tablets with one component. In other cases, rinse aid is not required;
• Detergent . You can choose powder, tablets, gel or capsules as a detergent. It is recommended to start getting acquainted with the dishwasher with powders or tablets.

Composition of dishwashing powder

What components are included in the dishwashing detergent, are they harmful to the human body and the environment? We list the substances that are found in each powder:

• Sodium citrate. A preservative that serves for disinfection.
• Sodium percabonate. Whitens and protects against germs.
• Surfactants (surfactants). They help break down fat, protein, coffee and tea deposits, and other contaminants from the surface of dishes.
• Soda. Helps soften water in the same way as acetic acid (ethylenediamine tetra). Regulates acidity.
• Isooctyl glucoside. A substance of plant origin that serves as a rinse aid.
• Subtilisin. Breaks down proteins.
• Sodium gluconate. Softens hard water.
• Phosphates. They also have a softening effect. However, in Europe there has been a ban on their use for more than 10 years. Phosphates have a negative impact on the human body and the environment.

An eco-friendly or homemade detergent can be a phosphate-free alternative.

Range of detergents + benefits of dishwashing powder

The principle of operation of a washing machine and dishwasher is similar: load dirty dishes into it, add detergent, select the desired program, and continue to do your business until the dishwasher notifies you of the result of the work done.

It sounds simple, but in reality there are many complexities. The first and main one is the choice of a detergent that will not only effectively clean the dishes, but also be gentle on the device itself, which will greatly extend its service life.

For dishwashers, two options are most often used: these are either tablets or powders. The tablets are effective, there is no doubt about it, but they also cost an order of magnitude more.

Most often, for this reason, preference is given to powders, and I must say, for good reason.

Dishwasher powders have many benefits. However, there are also a few disadvantages. More details about this are in the table.

Advantages	Flaws
Budgeting.	Problematic use.
Dishwasher powders are much cheaper than their tablet counterparts. Powder can be found for every taste and budget.	Putting powder into the compartment is much more difficult than placing a tablet. In addition, it often falls apart, which requires additional cleaning.
Efficiency.	Volatility.
The powders clean well and dissolve well in water. They contain surfactants that are capable of breaking down contaminants of any complexity.	Powder is a kind of dust that penetrates the respiratory tract. Powders should be used carefully so as not to harm your health.
Practicality.	The need to use rinse aid.
Powdered products are used economically; they can be loaded halfway when selecting the appropriate mode.	To ensure that dishes do not have a white coating or streaks after using the powder, a rinse aid is needed. Its cost is low, but it is still an additional expense.

As you can see, there are enough arguments in favor to give preference to powder. In addition, they appeared a long time ago, are constantly being improved, and are more familiar for use in everyday life.

Dishwasher detergent must be used strictly according to the instructions.

TOP 5 dishwasher products on sale

The network is full of ratings of proven powders for cars. I have already told you what to pay attention to. Now, as an example, I’ll give you the TOP 5 best detergents, including powders and capsules - choose at your discretion.

Dishwasher Powder, Nellie's, 726 g

Dishwasher detergent capsules, Grab Green, 1080 g

Nellie's Dish Cleaning Pads, 430 g

Dishwasher detergent, Grab Green, 1080 g

Dishwashing liquid with lemon scent, Mild By Nature, 1077 g

Choosing the right powder for your dishwasher is very important, because it is the key to clean dishes and longevity of the device. I advise you not to save money and buy powders from proven brands, especially since there are quite a lot of them. And as a last resort, use the home remedy recipe - it will also come in handy.