The Best Dishwasher Detergents of 2010

Because we eat three times a day, we wash dishes that frequently as well.  To make dishwashing easier, we need to use brands which really deliver.  Skip the costly trial and error and go straight to consumer and expert reviews on the many brands of dishwasher detergents.

What to look for when buying dishwasher detergents:

Choose a dishwashing detergent which does not leave film on the plates.  When using a dishwashing detergent, use only a small amount so as to prevent filmy residues.

Look for brands which do not cause streaks.  Streaking of glassware is due to the high content of calcium in hard water.  Before the July 2010 ban on phosphate use in dishwashing detergents, phosphates were routinely added to dishwashing soaps to soften the water and help the detergent work more effectively.  Phosphates are now banned because they have been found to promote algae blooms which clog waterways and lower the oxygen available for marine life.  In place of phosphates, manufacturers now use food enzymes which break down food wastes.  If your water is particularly hard, you may have to consider buying a rinsing agent to prevent cloudiness in glassware.

Never use manual dishwashing liquids or soaps for the dishwasher.  Manual dishwashing soaps are far too soapy and sudsy for the dishwashing machine to rinse.

For eco-friendly choices, look for brands which do not contain chlorine, perfumes or dyes.  Chorine emits irritating fumes when mixed with hot water.  Synthetic perfumes and dyes are also not environmentally friendly.  But because manufacturers of dishwashing detergents are not mandated to have a listing of ingredients, you may have to do some research on what brands are green. 

Here are the best dishwasher detergent picks according to consumersearch.com:

Cascade Complete All-in-one ActionPacs

Users and experts alike rate this brand as the top dishwashing detergent for several reasons.  It has the ability to remove spots, food wastes and odors even in heavily-soiled wares.  It offers the convenience of coming in pre-measured packs.  It does not cause films and streaks in plates and glassware.  It also eliminates the need for pre-rinsing.

Walmart Great Value Dishwasher Detergent

This brand is the best in the budget brand category.  This brand competes well with Cascade in terms of washing plates but is found to leave spots on heavily-soiled pots and pans and occasional streaks on glassware.  Still, many consumers opt for this brand because of the huge price difference.

Biokleen Automatic Dish Powder

In the green or eco-friendly category of dishwasher detergents, Biokleen is the top pick.  All brands are now phosphate-free but this brand goes another mile by removing chlorine as well.  There are also varieties which do not contain perfumes and dyes.  This green soap also removes spots well, though not as well as the top brands when it comes to heavily-soiled pots and pans.