Manufacturers of detergents and cleaning products are ready to offer users a wide variety of products. In each category of goods, you can distinguish both positive and negative reviews.
In order to choose the right powder for the dishwasher, it is necessary to take into account the environmental friendliness of the product, especially the chemical composition and properties of the active substances. Agree, at first glance the task seems to be difficult, especially when you consider the wide range of products on the shelves of the store.
We suggest narrowing your search for the best tool. We have prepared a review of the seven best powders from different manufacturers, outlined their pros and cons, and also provided practical recommendations for choosing household chemicals for dishwashers.
Product Selection Criteria
The choice of means for the dishwasher is one of the main and important steps in the process of preparing for the operation of equipment. Not only the result of cleaning plates, cups and small items, but also the duration of use of the equipment without any repair of its components and parts depends on the quality and effectiveness of the products.
Powdered products are classic, they are used by many consumers. Their popularity is directly related to the relative cheapness, practicality in use and excellent effect during washing. Their direct competitor is pills. A comparative review of two household products is provided in this article.
Such substances are intended specifically for cleaning pots, plates, cutlery, cups, baby accessories and toys, and not the device in which the process takes place
Experts recommend that you follow the following product selection rules:
- Select substances according to the class and type of washing machine.
- Take into account the material of kitchen utensils - painted, glass objects or with decorative elements.
- Carefully study the list of components indicated on the package.
To buy a quality product, you need to know the features of the composition of various brands and types of products, as well as the rules for their application. Depending on the type of cookware and the material from which it is made, you will need to choose products with different composition.
Environmental Priorities
Most users of dishwashers prefer detergents, which belong to the Eco group. The prevailing opinion about the safety of such substances has contributed to an increase in demand for these products and, accordingly, an increase in the price range.
This type of substance is regularly tested by authorized authorities, which evaluate them according to European standards and norms.
In the course of the experiments, it was proved that eco-products have a lower concentration of active substances. Therefore, the occurrence of allergic reactions when using environmentally friendly products is minimal.
The effectiveness of cleaning plates, pans, cups, cutlery using the above substances allows you to achieve similar results, as when using means with a chemical composition
Before choosing a product, you should determine the criteria that are most important in a particular product. In practice, eco-substances are notable for their high cost, low washing efficiency and high consumption.
Compared to competing brands, such products have a lower rating from consumers with regard to the quality of cleaning of ceramic, glass and porcelain.
Chemical Features
All chemistry for washing consists of several active ingredients that help to ideally clean the surface of products when exposed to high and low temperatures. The powder for the unit must be selected depending on the material of the dishes.
For a particular type of product, a special type of product is suitable, therefore, before choosing, you should familiarize yourself with the constituent components of the product.
Conditionally subdivide funds into the following types:
- environmentally friendly - without any phosphate and chlorine-containing inclusions;
- chlorine-containing;
- phosphate-chlorine-containing;
- phosphate-containing.
Eco-friendly products acts due to the presence of active oxygen and other natural components in the composition. They do not contain aggressive substances that can adversely affect the consumer if the recommended dosage is exceeded.
Chlorine-based products Suitable for cleaning cups, ceramic and clay products. However, this type of product is not recommended for washing fragile glass, crystal, silver and porcelain.
When cleaning plastic dishes using this product, the surface may undergo a color change.
Due to the high effectiveness of the agent, these items can be easily washed from stubborn stains, for example, from tea and other brightly colored drinks - compote, wine
Phosphate Products It is designed for efficient and quick cleaning of products, provided that water of high hardness is used. Its low concentration inside the chamber allows you to soften the water. This product is suitable for cleaning glass and porcelain.
Properties of active components
For effective cleaning of kitchen utensils, powdered products containing a large number of components are used.
Each substance has special properties that are unique to chemicals, due to which it is possible to obtain high washing results during operation of dishwashers
The main components, active substances and their properties:
- Chlorine. Disinfects, eliminates stubborn odors and resistant stains.
- Phosphates Substances that reduce the level of water hardness and enhance the action of the product.
- Alkaline salts. Silicate, sodium citrate, tripolyphosphates, trisodium phosphate - improve the colloidal structure of the product, contribute to a more effective and durable formation of films around the places of pollution, create a favorable environment for washing products, and prevent the occurrence of corrosion processes.
- Sodium sulfate. Increases the washing ability.
- Bleach. Destroys colored spots through exposure to oxygen particles.
- Polycarboxylate. Prevents re-sedimentation of residual contaminants on the surface of products.
- Glycerol. Maintains the necessary viscosity of the product.
- Polyaspartate. It has a natural origin, prevents the appearance of limescale on the surface of dishes and inside the appliance chamber, has a water softening effect, improves the washing result.
- Detergents. Facilitate the washing off of dirt from metal, ceramic or even plastic dishes.
- Surfactant. Superficially affects stains of dirt and grease, effectively removing them.
Most products contain enzymes (proteases, amylase, lipase).
Substances break down molecules of fat, proteins and polysaccharides, and also perfectly cope with dried food residues, for example, after porridge, potatoes, chocolate.
In addition to these substances, the composition may include other components of natural or synthetic origin, which have an amplifying effect of cleaning products
When using the recommended dosage of powder, such substances are completely washed out during rinsing and do not have a negative effect on the body, although only testing can show accurate data.
Recommendations for the selection and use of products
To extend the service life of the equipment, it is recommended to use chemicals only in accordance with the instructions for the device and powder. In order not to damage the filters, hoses and other elements of the unit, do not use products designed to clean dishes by hand.
Self-prepared mixtures can also harm, damage parts of the device. Therefore, the selection of chemistry should be in accordance with the clear rules for using the dishwasher, which are prescribed by the manufacturer in the instructions.
Product quality plays an important role in the efficiency of the equipment. Visually, products should be packed in airtight boxes or plastic bags. The flowability of the agent depends on this, since the ingress of moisture creates conditions for caking of the substance and the formation of lumps. In the future, such chemistry is undesirable.
The manufacturer must indicate on the packaging:
- details of the enterprise where the manufacture and packaging were carried out;
- Provider details
- date of manufacture;
- composition;
- shelf life;
- contact safety measures, etc.
You need to buy products depending on the type of dishes. Enzyme-containing substances are suitable for cleaning any product at minimum temperature conditions - 40-50 ° C.
Chlorine-containing products should be used carefully when washing fragile glasses, glasses, and cups. Crystal, cupronickel and silver products are not recommended to be washed with such an aggressive substance.
Substances with an alkaline composition and oxidizing components are suitable for almost all types of products. However, it should be borne in mind that the products have a whitening effect and can change the color of the dishes.
Use funds must be strictly for its intended purpose. Pour the chemical mixture into a special compartment in the volume specified in the instructions (usually 30-40 grams for one process).
In the case of a half load, the amount of powder will need to be halved. If the recommended dose is exceeded, increased foaming inside the chamber is possible, as well as a greater likelihood of product residue on the surface of the products.
It is recommended to pay special attention to the composition of the powders, so as not to spoil the plates, pans, cutlery, other products during cleaning in the dishwasher.
Popular brands of powdered products
Due to the large assortment in the market of household chemicals, it is not so simple to decide on the choice of a specific product. Cost, constituent components, cleaning efficiency, consumption are the main parameters that you should pay attention to when buying a product.
The presented rating is based on the results of testing by laboratory specialists for compliance with the declared quality, composition and washing efficiency indicated on the package.
I place - Somat (Henkel)
They release the product in an easy-to-use container with an ergonomic handle and dispenser. The volume of 2.5 kg is enough for 80 or more times. Ideal for washing at high and low temperatures.
Packaged products of 1.5, 2.5, 3 kg. The average price for 2.5 kg is 600-700 rubles, and the minimum for 1.5 kg packaging - from 549 rubles
Benefits:
- low consumption;
- the presence of a dispenser;
- high class cleansing;
- low price;
- neutral aroma;
- the presence of enzymes.
Powder is produced in two different versions - with the effect of soda and in the classic version. Soda effect eliminates the most complex and even dried over a long period of time stains from food.
Disadvantages:
- increased foaming in eco mode;
- insufficient washing of pots, baking trays and pans.
For best results, it is recommended to use the product with a dishwasher rinse aid and salt.
For not too dirty plates and cups, it is recommended to add 30 g to the device. washing mixture, and for more complex stains - 45 g.
II place - FINISH (Reckitt Benckiser)
They are produced in 1 and 2.5 kg containers. The cost is from 429 rubles per kg. The product is intended for cleaning metal, clay, ceramic, plastic and glass products.
In its composition, the main active ingredient is sodium tripolyphosphate (from 15 to 30%). Improved cleansing effect due to oxygen bleach
The StainSoaker component allows you to wash the most resistant stains from food without pre-rinsing or soaking the dishes. It copes with traces on the surface of products from lipstick, tea, compotes, providing an ideal result.
The powder has 2 variants of smell - the original (neutral) and with a citrus note of lemon. The product must be filled in a special compartment in the device in a volume of up to 40 grams. subject to full load.
Features of using FINISH in a dishwasher are shown in the video:
III place - CLARO (Austria)
An inexpensive and effective tool for cleaning various types and degrees of contamination of kitchen utensils. They produce products in cardboard boxes of 2.5-3 kg. The price per package is from 750 rubles.
The mixture consists of three types of granules, which are responsible for a specific function:
- the green - clean stubborn stains, remove food debris, greasy plaque;
- white - provide an excellent washing result due to oxygen-containing bleach;
- blue - contribute to the rapid drying of products and give shine to the surface.
The composition contains phosphates (up to 30%), phosphonates, enzymes and other active substances.
Among the advantages, significant savings are distinguished, since there is no need to use additional funds for the machine. Its components perform the function of protecting against scale and softening water.
An extra-class product that is suitable for all types of dishwasher units. To wash 10-12 sets of plates, cups, glasses, etc., you must use 40 gr. substances.
IV place - SODOSAN (Germany)
Environmentally friendly powder for any type of dishwasher from a German manufacturer. The product is positioned as an ideal product for use by people prone to allergic reactions. Also actively used to clean children's dishes.
The cost of production is from 655 rubles per kilogram package and from 1,500 rubles per 2.5 kg.
Hypoallergenic without any perfumes perfectly eliminates greasy, dried food residues, traces on glasses and cups of lipstick. In addition to high-quality cleansing, the active ingredients prevent the formation of scale on dishes, and also give it a shiny look.
The composition of the product includes soda, organic polyaspartate and alcohol sulfate, which do not have a negative impact on health
It is not recommended to use for washing silver, porcelain and crystal products. For 1 cycle, use 15 gr. products subject to moderate pollution of plates and pans. For more stable spots, the amount can be increased by no more than 20-30%. A volume of 1 kg is enough for 66 procedures.
V place - ECOVER (Belgium)
More expensive in comparison with the previous product, but no less effective organic powder. It is produced in the form of a concentrated substance in small packages of 1.36 kg and for a longer shelf life - 10 kg. The cost of economy packaging 1.36 kg is 1090 rubles.
The product is made on the basis of mineral and plant substances. The product does not include components such as phosphates, phosphanates, bio-accumulating materials.
The powder has a pleasant smell and good physical properties - it perfectly removes plaque from grease, old spots. Does not leave soapy stains and has a low consumption
Since the substance is highly concentrated, it is used in small doses - from 20 to 50 mg, depending on the number of objects and the degree of pollution. The substance is completely biodegradable without any negative impact on the environment.
The video presents how ECOVER is backfilled:
VI place - AMWAY (USA)
Powder of high concentration of the category "Eco". Perfectly cleans all types of stains. A 1.4 kg package is designed for 70 or more cycles. The cost of the product is from 1100 rubles per pack.
Has a pleasant citrus aroma. The product is not allergic, therefore it is suitable for washing children's toys, bottles, plates, cups and other products.
The substance perfectly removes fat, dried particles from porridge, fried eggs, vegetables, a film of starch and prevents the appearance of scale
The product contains oxygen bleach and active enzymes that easily eliminate strong contaminants. It is not recommended to use for cleaning aluminum and silver products. You can fill the substance at the bottom of the machine or in the dispenser compartment.
The amount of powder should be determined taking into account the degree of contamination of the products. For standard mode, provided that the device is fully loaded, 10 grams is enough, the maximum safe and recommended dosage is 20 grams. Under conditions of increased water hardness, special salt should be used.
VII place - AlmaWin (Germany)
German-made product based on organic detergents, designed for modern models of machines. Suitable for use in the mode of saving resource consumption during operation of the device.
Products have a high price - from 1089 rubles per package of 1.25 kg. For frequent use, family packaging is provided - 3 and 5 kg.
The phosphate-free composition did not deteriorate, and the combination of bicarbonate and sodium silicate together with soda provide softening of the water. The sodium citrate component prevents the formation of plaque on products during the inclusion of high temperature conditions.
Vegetable surfactants perfectly clean the surface of pots, plates and cutlery, and oxygen-based bleach can improve the properties of the product when washed in water from 50 degrees
The product has a light eucalyptus aroma.
A package of 1.25 kg is enough for 50 cycles, provided that the products are used in the recommended doses - 15-25 g.
A budget alternative to ready-to-use factory-made drugs will be a home-made product made from available components:
When choosing a dishwasher detergent, you should take into account its characteristics, recommendations regarding the use of products, the level of water hardness, the material of the dishes and the nature of the contamination of the products. Products of suitable composition and parameters will achieve the best results.
Share with readers the experience of using powder for dishwashers. Tell us about the specifics of the choice of the drug and how to use it. Leave feedback, comments and ask questions - the contact form is below.