No, you should not use washing machine tablets in a dishwasher.
While both products are designed for cleaning, they are formulated very differently and using the wrong one can lead to poor results, potential damage, and safety issues.
Why Washing Machine Tablets Are Not Suitable for Dishwashers
The primary reason not to swap laundry detergent for dish detergent is the difference in their chemical composition. As highlighted by experts, laundry detergents create significantly more suds than dish detergents.
- Excessive Suds: This excessive lathering can cause major problems within a dishwasher. It can overflow the machine, create a huge mess, and is difficult to rinse away completely.
- Blockage: The abundance of suds can block the dishwasher's spray arms, preventing water from reaching and effectively cleaning your dishes.
- Potential Damage: Beyond just poor cleaning, the reference explicitly states that using laundry detergent may even damage your dishwasher. The high level of suds and different chemical agents aren't designed for the dishwasher's mechanics and water-efficient cycle.
- Residue: Laundry detergent can leave behind chemical residues on your dishes, which is not safe for food contact.
So in short: Don't do it.
Key Differences Between Laundry and Dishwasher Detergents
Here's a quick comparison of why these two types of detergents are not interchangeable:
| Feature | Laundry Detergent | Dishwasher Detergent |
|---|---|---|
| Suds Level | High | Low |
| Cleaning Focus | Fabrics (dirt, stains) | Food grime, grease (on hard surfaces) |
| Enzymes | Different types for fabric stains | Different types for food residue |
| Bleaching Agents | Often harsher for fabric whitening | Generally milder, safe for dishes |
| Safety | Formulated for fabric, rinse cycle | Formulated for food-contact surfaces |
| Risk in Dishwasher | Overflow, poor cleaning, damage, residue | Safe, effective cleaning |
What to Use Instead
Always use a product specifically designed for dishwashers. This includes:
- Dishwasher tablets or pods
- Dishwasher powder
- Dishwasher gel or liquid
These products contain the right balance of low-sudsing surfactants, enzymes tailored for food particles, and other agents to effectively clean dishes without harming your machine or leaving unsafe residues.
Using the correct detergent ensures your dishwasher runs efficiently, cleans your dishes properly, and lasts longer.
