What is better for the dishwasher - powder or tablets? Comparative review of cleaning products

In supermarkets and hardware stores you can find a large number of household chemicals intended for dishwashers. Such products are available in different forms, so housewives often have to decide the question: what is better for the dishwasher - powder or tablets? It's worth finding out before purchasing.

We will talk about the difference between tablet and powder preparations. In the article we propose, their characteristics are analyzed in detail and methods of application are described. The valuable recommendations we have provided will help you navigate the abundance of products on the market.

Dishwasher preparations

Industrial products used for processing dishes in household appliances differ in purpose, appearance, appearance, composition and consistency.

Having chosen the form of release as a criterion, we can distinguish the following types:

• gel-like;
• powdery;
• tableted.

The latter most often have a combined composition “3 in 1”, “5 in 1”, “7 in 1”, due to the inclusion of several components at once that provide additional capabilities.

Initially, dishwasher detergents were only available in powder form, but tablets were later developed. Relatively recently, capsules for washing appliances have also appeared on the market.

Today, the most commonly used are powders and tablets, which will be discussed below.

Powdered dishwashing detergents

Such products are a loose mixture, homogeneous or containing different types of granules. It is based on surfactants (surfactants) used to break down food debris.

May include:

• enzymes designed to eliminate complex contaminants;
• the enzyme subtilisin, which successfully fights protein residues;
• oxygen bleach;
• soda for water softening;
• preservatives that increase the shelf life of the drug;
• fragrances that give the product a pleasant aroma.

To improve the quality of washing, phosphates or chlorine are added. Additional components also include tensides that make it easier to wash off food residues in hard water; lipase, which dissolves fatty stains; protease, which serves to decompose organic protein residues.

Surfactants and other active additives are added to dishwashing mixtures in microscopic quantities. They are not harmful to healthy people, but in people with allergies they can cause itching, skin rashes and other reactions.

It is important to note that using cleaning powder alone to clean kitchen appliances in the dishwasher is clearly not enough. It must be supplemented with softening salt and conditioner-rinse aid, which are added separately.

The first product is necessary for the correct operation of the unit with water of varying degrees of hardness, the second drug is needed for the final stage of cleaning the devices.

Bulk formulations have long gained popularity among buyers. An important advantage of powdered formulations is their low cost. Even if we take into account that the powder can only be used in combination with salt/rinse aid, a set of these drugs will cost less than tablets with a similar effect.

When using a mixture, many dishwasher models can automatically adjust the flow of salt and rinse aid depending on the hardness of the water.

To determine the characteristics, composition and degree of hardness of water, its samples are taken to the SES laboratory. If you are only interested in hardness, it is better to use the test strips provided by the dishwasher manufacturer.

The user can find out the value of the hardness index from water supply organizations and set it manually. When living in regions with soft water, this allows you to save salt and add it in minimal quantities.

Powdered products dissolve quickly, making them suitable for short-term instrument processing. In addition, they are compatible with almost all modifications of units. The powder is easy to dose: when choosing the partial load mode, it will not be difficult to pour a smaller amount of the mixture into the compartment.

If the balance of detergent, softener and salt is incorrect, rainbow stains may remain on the surface of washed dishes. In this case, it is advisable to additionally turn on the rinse mode to get rid of the remaining substances

At the same time, a number of disadvantages of such funds should be noted:

• When loading powder into the tray, it can accidentally spill, which increases consumption.
• During backfilling, particles of the mixture can enter the air, as well as onto the skin and respiratory tract of a person, which contributes to the occurrence of allergic reactions.
• Products, especially those poured into cardboard boxes, require careful storage. They can wake up, and with high humidity in the room, they can cake and lose some of their properties.
• When using powdered formulations, it is important to pay attention to the recommended dosage. Adding more will create excess foam in the machine, which can lead to leaks and breakdowns.

In an attempt to overcome these disadvantages, manufacturers have come up with other forms of detergents.

Tablet detergents for PMM

The products are compressed dry tablets, which often consist of several multi-colored layers. The peculiar appearance reflects the peculiarity of such household chemicals. In the vast majority of cases, they have a combined formula that combines several functions.

The most common and economical option is “3 in 1” tablets, which combine a cleaning component, rinse aid, and softening salt.

Dishwashers have special compartments for salt/powder/rinse aid, as well as a separate container for complex tablets

A popular option are “5 in 1” tablets, which contain the following components:

1. Cleaning powder.
2. A product to protect your machine from scale.
3. Softening salt.
4. A protective product intended for dishes.
5. Rinse aid.

There are many other tablet offerings that may contain 6-10 or even more ingredients in the formula.

These include:

• additives that add shine to products;
• odor eliminating substances;
• antimicrobial elements;
• catalysts that allow you to eliminate complex contaminants even at low temperatures.

The composition is reflected in the cost of the tablets.

Such means have a number of undeniable advantages. One capsule contains all the components necessary for a dishwashing cycle. They make dosage compliance easy. Instead of pouring powder onto your eye or measuring it, you just need to put a tablet in the container.

Individual packaging of the product ensures comfort during storage and transportation, and it also prevents the release of active substances into the environment. The tablets are easy to store: there is no need to sprinkle the powder on the eye or measure it, just put the tablet in.

When choosing “All in 1” products, you need to remember that each additional option is reflected in its price. In order not to overpay, you need to think about whether you need all the offered functions

There is a wide range of drugs of this type on sale, and the boxes can be designed for different numbers of tablets: from 20 to 100 or more pieces. Small packages allow housewives to test products from different brands. Once you have made your choice, you can purchase a larger package, which will cost much less.

However, we should not forget about the disadvantages of such products:

• Tablets are usually more expensive than similar powders, although this indicator is often influenced by the promotion of the brand. Capsules produced by little-known companies can often be purchased much cheaper than powdered products from well-known brands.
• The components of the complex usually act worse than each component separately. The simultaneous entry of powder and rinse aid into the liquid leads to a weakening of the properties of the latter.
• It takes quite a long time for the tablet version of some brands to dissolve, which is why they are not very suitable for non-fast modes.
• The amount of salt contained in each tablet is calculated for water of medium hardness, while this indicator may vary depending on the area of ​​residence.

Often the manufacturer insists on additional salt even when using All-in-One products, which is especially important in areas with hard water. When using such products, automatic dosage of salt and rinse aid is impossible: you will have to add the required amount yourself.

If salt is used separately, it dissolves in cold water. When pre-softened liquid is heated, a smaller layer of scale is deposited on the heating elements, which reduces energy costs

In tablet forms more often than in powders. phosphates can be found. Breaking a tablet is quite a difficult task. This complicates the use of such preparations in modes that require a reduced dosage of detergent compositions, for example, in the “Partial Load” program.

Some modifications of units may not have compartments for using tablets, which is usually reflected in the operating instructions.

If you consider ready-to-use tablets an unnecessarily expensive “pleasure,” you can make them yourself. The following article will introduce the manufacturing technology, which all thrifty housewives should read.

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.

Environmentally friendly products

Since when washing plates, cups, and pots, their surface comes into direct contact with detergents, it is important that the latter do not harm humans.

Although conventional dishwashing detergents contain minimal amounts of hazardous substances, manufacturers also offer environmentally friendly formulations based on plant extracts. Such mixtures often contain minerals that provide an abrasive effect.

A relatively new option is capsules. They are tablets or gel, packaged in dissolving packaging, which allows you to protect your hands from irritation when in contact with highly concentrated substances

In addition, such preparations, which can be produced either in powder or tablet form, are usually completely free of fragrance and often no preservatives. One of the brightest representatives are powdered products, gels and tablets BioMio, which are attractive due to their environmental safety and the absence of an allergic reaction.

When choosing, you need to keep in mind that environmentally friendly products are characterized by:

• higher cost;
• low foaming, especially in the initial stage of processing;
• average quality of washing due to the lack of fast-acting enzymes and surfactants;
• increased consumption, which is explained by the low concentration of detergents.

However, these products can be recommended for treating dishes intended for children, people with allergic reactions, or chronically ill people.

How to choose detergents for your dishwasher

For reliable and high-quality washing, it is imperative to use salt, detergents and rinsing agents. Salt softens hard tap water and prevents the formation of deposits on machine mechanisms. Detergent components are necessary for washing dishes.

And the rinse aid will completely wash away the salt and soap composition, prevent the appearance of stains and give the products shine. In addition, they produce fresheners that give dishes a pleasant light aroma. You can buy such products separately or in one universal product.

Today they produce 3in1, 4in1, etc. products. They include all the necessary components. Such products are produced in the form of gels and tablets. Another type of cleaning products are powders that are only suitable for washing dishes.

If you or family members suffer from allergies, as well as for the safety of small children, it is better to choose special eco-products with natural, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free ingredients. They come in all three forms, including powder, tablets or gel.

For each type of cookware and any temperature, slightly alkaline compositions with enzymes are suitable. Preparations containing chlorine should not be used on delicate items, including porcelain, crystal, silver or hand-painted items. For coarser materials, such compositions are suitable to wash away stubborn and old stains.

To whiten dishes, choose formulations containing oxygen, oxidizing and alkaline components. Regardless of the type of product and manufacturer, be sure to pay attention to the contents.

It is advisable that the product does not include chlorine bleach, phosphates, dyes and other toxic elements. Let's look at what type of detergent is suitable for the dishwasher.

Secrets of the right choice

There is hardly a clear answer to the question: should you use powders in the dishwasher or give preference to tablets? As a rule, the choice is made based on personal preferences and recommendations of manufacturers.

Recent research by marketers shows that the leading positions in the ranking of specialized products are occupied by tablet drugs. Despite the increased cost, they have won the hearts of users due to their ease of use and cost-effectiveness.

The right glass was washed with a 3-in-1 tablet, the left glass was washed with a salt/cleaning powder/rinse aid set. The result is obvious

At the same time, in some situations it is advisable to give preference to powdered preparations. They are convenient to use when the machine is half loaded, which requires less dosage, or in short programs that require quick processing of dishes.

In order for the quality of washing and the absence of white residue to definitely please you with your results, it is important to follow simple rules. First of all, before purchasing medications, you should carefully read the instructions to become familiar with the manufacturers' recommendations.

The quality of washing in a dishwasher directly depends on the choice of products intended for washing dishes. They should wash away stains well and be completely safe for users.

When using a complex of products - powder, rinse aid, salt - it is advisable to use products from the same manufacturer, which guarantees the best result.

It is unacceptable to use products intended for hand washing in dishwashers. They are characterized by increased foam formation, which can lead to failure of the unit. When choosing a program operating at a temperature of +40-50 C, the optimal choice is tablets containing enzymes that carefully wash kitchen utensils.

Preparations containing alkali and acid perfectly clean products, but in some cases they also have a bleaching effect. This must be taken into account if you plan to wash devices decorated with paintings.

Products containing chlorine are economical in price and have a powerful effect. However, they are considered insufficiently environmentally friendly, and are also not suitable for processing dishes made from fragile materials - crystal, porcelain, thin-walled glass

For industrial units, special concentrated preparations are used that are not suitable for household machines.

Why does a dishwasher need salt?

The purpose of salt compositions for PMM is that they:

• soften hard water;
• prevent the appearance of scale on device parts and deposits on dishes;

• restore ion exchanger reserves;
• extend the life of equipment.

In addition, special salt destroys pathogenic organisms in the dishwasher, thereby protecting human health.

Is a dishwasher profitable?

Oh yes! No

It is believed that our tap water is too hard for imported equipment, which is designed to meet European standards. Therefore, for efficient and uninterrupted operation of the device, the water must be softened.

Hard is saturated with potassium and magnesium ions, because of this, under the influence of high temperature, scale forms on the working surfaces, preventing the thermal conductivity of the heater surface. To prevent this, the machine passes water through an exchanger, in which magnesium and calcium ions are bound with sodium (chlorine) ions. In this way it is cleansed and softened.

Expert opinion

I work in the household appliance repair industry. Extensive experience in restoring washing machines and dishwashers.

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Prepared water copes well with food contaminants. Modern models of Bosch dishwashers are equipped with sensors that notify the user to add salt when it is used up.

Top 5 dishwasher products

If you analyze user reviews, you will notice that the rating of the best detergents includes both powders and tablets.

1st place: Grab Green eco-friendly capsules

Non-toxic and environmentally friendly product, especially recommended for allergy sufferers and children. The tablets do not contain phosphates or other harmful substances. They also do not contain abrasive components, which allows Grab Green to be used for all types of dishes. At the same time, users unanimously note the high quality of washing equipment.

If the balance of detergent, softener and salt is incorrect, rainbow stains may remain on the surface of washed dishes. In this case, it is advisable to additionally turn on the rinse mode to get rid of the remaining substances (+)

Among the negative aspects are the low availability of the drug, which can only be purchased in online stores, the relatively high cost, the inability to separate the capsule to change the dosage, the need to use a conditioner, without which stains will remain on the surface.

A significant advantage of Grab Green is the absence of toxic substances and components harmful to the environment.

2nd place: popular Finish powder

A well-known brand assigned to a wide range of dishwasher detergents that have gained wide popularity among users. The product range also includes dishwasher tablets, which are popular among consumers.

The range of products produced under this brand also includes Finish Quantum tablets, which have earned high consumer ratings

Reviews mention the excellent quality of washing with this product, especially when using salt and rinse aid from the same manufacturer. At the same time, the availability of these products, which are always on sale, is emphasized.

There is also a convenient packaging of the powder, which makes it easy to pour the required dosage. This affects both cost savings and people's health.

3rd place: Fairy “All in 1” capsules

The all-in-one product, which includes salt and conditioner, comes in the form of dissolvable capsules filled with powder and liquid gel. The tablets are in stylish colorful packaging.

The product copes well with various types of dirt, including grease and stubborn food debris, and gives the dishes a shine and well-groomed appearance. Capsules can be used in both hot and slightly warm water

One of the disadvantages is the impossibility of separating the capsule. It is not recommended to open its shell due to the fact that the concentrated liquid contained inside is particularly caustic. It also contains harmful substances - phosphates. The disadvantages include the rather high cost.

Along with products produced in capsules, the company offers effective tablets for dishwashers, which you will learn about in the article we recommend.

4th place: budget Pilotex powder

Powdered dishwashing detergent enjoys consumer attention due to its extremely low price. This preparation contains a minimal amount of phosphates. Users also note the convenient packaging of the mixture, which facilitates comfortable storage.

Although, due to the low content of detergents, the cleaning quality of Pilotex powder can be described as mediocre, the product is quite suitable for rinsing dishes that are not too dirty.

Pilotex powder is mainly attractive due to its affordable price. It is not very effective, but it does an excellent job of rinsing.

5th place: hypoallergenic capsules Ecover

Hypoallergenic dishwasher tablets with a “4 in 1” formula. The ingredients include detergent, salt, rinse aid, and anti-scale agent. It is based on the abrasive principle of washing, which allows you to remove dirt using the smallest mineral particles.

The advantages of such a product include the exclusion of potentially harmful substances. The packaging contains a complete list of ingredients, so users can get a comprehensive understanding of the composition

Ecover brand tablets are quite easy to cut in half, which allows you to use them in half dosage when the dishwasher is not fully loaded.

Among the shortcomings, some users noted the insufficient quality of washing, as well as the need for additional conditioner and salt, without which a pronounced coating remains on the dishes.

In addition, due to its abrasive effect, Ecover is not suitable for cleaning glassware, Teflon-coated kitchen utensils, or utensils decorated with designs.

In addition to dishwashing products, machine owners should definitely purchase a composition for cleaning the equipment itself. We recommend reading the following article on the issues of choosing the drug needed for care.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

In the video below you will hear a detailed analysis of different types of products intended for dishwashers:

Information on testing different types of tablets used in units for processing kitchen utensils:

It is hardly possible to give one answer to the question of what products are best to use in dishwashers. This largely depends on the composition of the preparations, kitchen appliances, and utensils.

In order for the devices to be impeccably clean and the machine to work stably for a long time, it is important to strictly follow the instructions. It is also advisable to use products from well-known companies that are responsible for the quality of their products.

Please write comments in the block below. Tell us what kind of dishwasher tablets or powder you use. Share what was the decisive criterion for you in choosing. Ask questions about unclear and controversial issues, post photos related to the topic of the article.