7 Best Dishwasher Cleaners in 2024

You’re meticulously scrubbing away at last night’s dinner plates, but are you neglecting the real culprit – your dishwasher itself? On the one hand, you’re ensuring sparkling clean dishes, but on the other, you might be ignoring the built-up grime, limescale, and odor-causing residues lurking within your appliance. The good news is that the right dishwasher cleaner can be a game-changer. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Let’s explore the top 7 dishwasher cleaners that’ll leave your appliance – and your dishes – spotless.

Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective dishwasher cleaner that’s recommended by top brands like Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana, Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is an excellent choice, especially if you want to remove limescale and odor-causing residues from your machine on a regular basis.

You can use it monthly or as needed to maximize your machine’s performance.

This cleaner powers away limescale and mineral buildup, cleaning deep inside your machine, including the tub, racks, pump, valve, drain, and recirculation hoses.

It’s also septic tank safe and U.S. EPA Safer Choice Certified, making it a great option for you and the environment.

With its ease of use and effectiveness, you’ll be enjoying sparkling dishes and glassware in no time.

Best For: Those who want a reliable and effective dishwasher cleaner that removes limescale and odor-causing residues and is recommended by top brands like Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana.

Pros:

Effective in removing limescale and odor-causing residues
Easy to use and compatible with all machine makes and models
Septic tank safe and U.S. EPA Safer Choice Certified, making it a great option for the environment

Cons:

May require extra cleaning cycles for heavily soiled machines
No specific information on price or value compared to other products
Limited information on long-term effects or maintenance requirements

Get it now on Amazon.com

Glisten Dishwasher Magic Disinfectant & Cleaner Lemon 12 Oz

For homeowners struggling with limescale and rust buildup in their dishwashers, the Glisten Dishwasher Magic Disinfectant & Cleaner Lemon 12 Oz is an ideal solution.

This product effectively removes limescale and rust, cleans and disinfects your dishwasher, and eliminates buildup and stains. As a result, your dishwasher’s performance will improve dramatically.

You’ll be impressed by its effectiveness in removing iron stains and pink bacteria buildup.

For best results, use it every 1-3 months to maintain your dishwasher’s cleanliness and performance.

With its impressive customer reviews and proven track record, the Glisten Dishwasher Magic Disinfectant & Cleaner is an excellent addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Best For: Homeowners struggling with limescale and rust buildup in their dishwashers who want to improve their dishwasher’s performance and cleanliness.

Pros:

Effectively removes limescale and rust buildup
Cleans and disinfects dishwashers, removing buildup and stains
Improves dishwasher performance and eliminates iron stains and pink bacteria buildup

Cons:

One customer found it didn’t clean as well as expected
May not be as effective as other products in certain situations (e.g. toilet cleaning)
No other notable drawbacks mentioned in customer reviews

Get it now on Amazon.com

Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner

You’ll want to choose Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner, a powerful and eco-friendly option that harnesses the cleaning prowess of citric acid to leave your dishes sparkling and your dishwasher fresh.

This product’s dual-chamber action combines powder and gel to effectively remove grease and tough stains, leaving a super fresh lemon scent.

As an EPA Safer Choice Partner, you can trust that this biodegradable cleaner is planet-safe and family-friendly.

Customers rave about its effectiveness in removing odor and buildup, leaving their machines sparkling and smelling fresh.

To get the best results, use it once a month and run hot water from the sink before use.

With its recognition as one of the Best Green Cleaning Products 2022 in PARENTS Magazine, you can feel confident in your choice.

Best For: Individuals and families seeking a natural, eco-friendly, and effective dishwasher cleaner that is safe for their families and the environment.

Pros:

Effective in removing grease and tough stains, leaving dishes sparkling clean
Leaves a super fresh lemon scent and helps eliminate odors and buildup in the dishwasher
Eco-friendly, biodegradable, and family-friendly, making it a safe choice for households with children and pets

Cons:

Requires monthly use to maintain effectiveness, which may be inconvenient for some users
May not be as effective in removing heavy buildup or stubborn stains without repeated use
Some users may not prefer the strong lemon scent, although it is generally considered a pleasant and refreshing smell

Get it now on Amazon.com

Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner

Get a sparkling clean dishwasher with the Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner, which delivers a deeper clean by breaking down and removing lime scale and grease build-up inside your appliance.

You’ll notice a significant improvement in your dishwasher’s performance and cleanliness after using this product.

It’s easy to use – simply pull off the sticker, set it upside down on the bottom rack of an empty dishwasher, and run the hottest water cycle.

This product is effective in removing stains and buildup from the dishwasher, leaving it smelling fresh and clean.

With Finish quality, you can trust that it’ll keep your dishwasher in good condition and prevent bad odors.

Best For: Homeowners who want to maintain their dishwasher’s cleanliness and performance, especially those with hard water or who notice build-up in their dishwasher.

Pros:

Easy to use with minimal effort required
Effective in removing lime scale and grease build-up, leaving the dishwasher smelling fresh and clean
Recommended by users for its effectiveness in improving dishwasher performance and cleanliness

Cons:

Some users find the product expensive compared to similar products
Not suitable for small dishwashers, with no option to use half a bottle
No other notable drawbacks mentioned by users

Get it now on Amazon.com

2 in 1 Washing Machine/Dishwasher Bio Cleaner

This 2-in-1 washing machine and dishwasher bio cleaner stands out for its versatility, offering a septic-safe formula compatible with all brands and types of appliances, making it an ideal choice for households with multiple machines.

You’ll appreciate its 2oz container, which provides 24 individual cleanings per appliance.

When you use this product, you can expect deep cleaning and deodorizing properties that remove dirt, grime, and odor-causing residue.

It’s also effective in removing hard water, lime, scale, grime, grease, and stains, leaving your appliances fresh and clean.

To use, simply add half a teaspoon of the gel to your washing machine or dishwasher, and follow the instructions for successful results.

With this product, you can extend the life of your appliances and improve their performance.

Best For: Households with multiple washing machines and dishwashers who want a versatile and effective cleaning solution.

Pros:

Effective in removing dirt, grime, and odor-causing residue from washing machines and dishwashers
Compatible with all brands and types of appliances, making it a convenient choice for households with multiple machines
Septic-safe formula ensures safe use in homes with septic systems

Cons:

May require repeated use for optimal results, which can be time-consuming and costly
Some users have reported ineffective cleaning, which can be frustrating and disappointing
Priced higher than some other cleaning products on the market, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers

Get it now on Amazon.com

Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner

When dealing with hard water stains and lime scale buildup, Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner is the best choice for those seeking a powerful and effective solution that safely breaks down and removes mineral deposits from hidden and essential parts of the dishwasher.

You’ll be impressed by its ability to power away grease and freshen the machine, leaving it smelling clean and fresh.

As you use it, you’ll notice a 50% reduction in limescale after just one use, and it’s also effective in removing grease and grime.

What’s more, it’s easy to use and convenient, and it can be used as a preventative measure to prevent mineral build-up.

Bosch even recommends using this product to maintain their dishwashers.

Best For: Homeowners who want to maintain their dishwashers and prevent mineral buildup and bad odors.

Pros:

Effectively removes hard water stains and lime scale buildup
Powers away grease and freshens the machine
Easy to use and convenient, with a 50% reduction in limescale after just one use

Cons:

Some users question the product’s effectiveness due to the hidden nature of cleaning
One user experienced little to no cleaning effect
May need to use multiple times to see optimal results

Get it now on Amazon.com

Plink Summit Brands Washer and Dishwasher Freshener Cleaner

Plink Summit Brands Washer and Dishwasher Freshener Cleaner is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a powerful and convenient way to deodorize and clean your clothes washer and dishwasher without harsh chemicals, thanks to its innovative enzymatic formula and effervescent cleaning action.

This product is proudly made in America and is phosphate- and bleach-free, making it a safe choice for your plumbing and septic system.

The lemon-scented freshener not only eliminates foul odors but also removes buildup and residue from hidden areas of your machines.

You’ll find it easy to use – simply pop a tablet into your washing machine or dishwasher and run a cycle.

With its convenient and effective cleaning, you’ll be enjoying a fresher, cleaner laundry room and sparkling dishes in no time.

Best For: Those who want a convenient and effective way to deodorize and clean their clothes washer and dishwasher without harsh chemicals.

Pros:

Easy to use with a simple and convenient tablet form
Effectively removes buildup and residue from hidden areas of machines
Leaves a refreshing lemon scent in the laundry room and on dishes

Cons:

May not remove staining on the door seal and inner rubber ring
May not work as effectively on older machines
Requires caution when removing from package to avoid paper cuts

Get it now on Amazon.com

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dishwasher Cleaners

When you’re on the hunt for the perfect dishwasher cleaner, you’ll want to ponder a few key factors to guarantee you get the best one for your needs.

You’ll need to think about how well the product actually works, how easy it’s to use, and what kind of impact it has on the environment.

Product Effectiveness

You’ll want to think about the types of tough grease and food residue your dishwasher cleaner can tackle, as not all products are created equal in terms of product effectiveness. Can it handle baked-on food, grease, and stains? Does it claim to leave your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean?

Look for products that specifically state they can tackle tough messes, like burnt-on food or stubborn stains.

You should also consider the type of cleaning agents used in the product. Enzyme-based cleaners are great for breaking down protein-based food residue, while oxidizing agents are better suited for tackling tough grease and stains.

Some products may also claim to remove limescale buildup or odors, so think about what specific issues you’re trying to address in your dishwasher.

Ultimately, you want a product that can deliver on its promises and leave your dishwasher in like-new condition.

Be sure to read reviews and product descriptions carefully to get a sense of a product’s effectiveness before making a purchase.

Ease of Use

After verifying your dishwasher cleaner can tackle tough grease and food residue, consider how easily you can use the product to get the job done.

You want a cleaner that requires minimal setup and effort, allowing you to simply place it in the dishwasher or washing machine and run a single cycle. Look for cleaners that come with clear instructions and have a simple, intuitive application process to minimize confusion and guarantee proper use.

It’s also essential to choose a cleaner that’s compatible with your appliance’s settings and capabilities, as some may require specific cycles or temperatures to be effective.

The packaging and design of the cleaner can also impact its ease of use. For example, single-dose tablets or powder packets can eliminate the need for measuring or mess.

Environmental Impact

As you weigh your options for a dishwasher cleaner, consider the ecological footprint of your choice, since many popular products can harm the environment if not carefully selected.

When choosing a dishwasher cleaner, you’ll want to opt for one that’s environmentally friendly. Look for products with the EPA Safer Choice certification, which confirms they meet stringent standards for human health and environmental sustainability.

Many eco-friendly dishwasher cleaners use natural ingredients like citric acid, which are biodegradable and non-toxic to aquatic life. Additionally, consider products that are septic tank safe, phosphate-free, and have minimal packaging with recyclable materials.

A concentrated formula can also help reduce waste and carbon footprint. By making an informed choice, you can minimize the environmental impact of your dishwasher cleaner.

Brand Reputation

When selecting a dishwasher cleaner, think about the brand reputation, as this can greatly impact the product’s quality, effectiveness, and overall customer satisfaction.

A well-established brand reputation can guarantee the product’s quality and effectiveness, as seen in the case of Whirlpool Corporation, which owns and distributes Affresh brand products.

You can trust that a reputable brand will provide consistent results and maintain customer satisfaction, as evident in the positive reviews of Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner.

A reputable brand is also likely to invest in research and development, leading to innovative products that cater to specific needs, such as Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner’s eco-friendly and biodegradable formula.

Additionally, a brand’s reputation can influence customer loyalty, as seen in the case of Finish, which has a large customer base that swears by their products and recommends them to others.

Ultimately, a brand’s reputation can be a deciding factor in your purchasing decision, as you’re more likely to trust a well-established brand over a new or unknown one.

Cost and Value

You’ll want to weigh the cost of a dishwasher cleaner against its effectiveness and convenience, considering whether the product’s benefits outweigh its price tag.

A more expensive cleaner may offer superior cleaning power, but it mightn’t be worth the extra cost if you’re on a budget. On the other hand, a cheaper option mightn’t provide the same level of cleaning, leaving you with subpar results.

When evaluating cost, consider the frequency of use and the size of your dishwasher. If you run multiple cycles per week, a more expensive cleaner might be justified. However, if you only run a few cycles per month, a budget-friendly option might be sufficient.

Additionally, consider the cost per use, as some cleaners may require multiple tablets or packets per cycle.

Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between cost and value. You want a cleaner that effectively removes grease and food residue without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Dishwasher Cleaner With a Septic System?

When you’re on a septic system, you’re probably wondering if it’s safe to use dishwasher cleaners. Fortunately, you can, but be cautious and choose eco-friendly, biodegradable products that won’t disrupt your septic system’s balance.

How Often Should I Clean My Dishwasher With a Cleaner?

Like Achilles’ heel, a dirty dishwasher can be your kitchen’s weak spot. You should clean yours every 1-2 months to maintain performance and hygiene. Run a cleaner cycle regularly to prevent grease and food residue buildup.

Are Dishwasher Cleaners Safe for All Types of Dishes?

You’re wondering if dishwasher cleaners are safe for all your dishes. Generally, they’re safe for most ceramics, glassware, and metal utensils, but check the label for specific guidance, as some cleaners might not be suitable for antiques, crystal, or certain types of plastic.

Can I Use a Dishwasher Cleaner as a Washing Machine Cleaner?

You’re wondering if you can use a dishwasher cleaner as a washing machine cleaner. The truth is, it’s not recommended, as dishwasher cleaners are specifically designed for high-heat, high-water-pressure dishwashers, not washing machines.

Do Dishwasher Cleaners Eliminate Odors Permanently?

You’re wondering if dishwasher cleaners eliminate odors permanently. Well, they can remove tough grease and food residue, but it’s unlikely they’ll completely eliminate odors forever, as new grime and food particles will accumulate over time.