Dishwasher - Detergent and Rinse Agent Tips

Using the correct detergent and a rinse agent will help your dishwasher provide a better wash.

Obtaining the Best Wash Performance From a Dishwasher

Dishwasher Detergent

Use only powder, liquid, tablet, or pod (packet) detergent designed specifically for automatic dishwashers. Any other types of soap may cause sudsing inside the dishwasher, resulting in poor wash performance and possibly suds and water on your kitchen floor.

• Use high quality detergents such Cascade® Platinum™ ActionPacs™ or Finish® Quantum® Automatic Dishwashing Detergent.

Keep your detergent fresh and dry.

• Store the detergent container away from moisture to prevent lumps.
• Do not put detergent in the cup until you are ready to run a cycle.
• If powder detergent gets old or lumpy, throw it out; it will not clean effectively. Liquid, tablet, and pod detergents do not age.

Use the right amount of detergent for the job.

• For more information, please check out our Dishwasher - Detergent Use and Water Hardness article.

Rinse Agent

Add a high quality rinse agent such as Cascade® Platinum™ Power Dry™ Rinse Aid or Finish® Jet-Dry® Rinse Aid to the rinse agent dispenser.

Benefits of a Rinse Agent

• Improved dry performance.

• Prevents film from forming on dishes.

Adding Rinse Agent to the Dispenser

1. Make sure the dishwasher door is fully open.

2. Open the rinse agent dispenser cover.

3. Slowly add rinse agent until full. You may need to pause several times to allow the rinse agent to settle.

4. Clean up any spilled rinse agent with a damp towel to prevent foam from forming inside the dishwasher.

5. Close the rinse agent cover.

6. Adjust the rinse agent setting to the desired amount using the adjuster (clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease).

7. See the Owner's Manual for more information on detergent amount recommendations.

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