5 Best Dishwasher Cleaners in 2026: Expert Tested

Finding the best dish washer cleaner can feel like a chore in itself, with dozens of options all promising a sparkling clean machine. A clean dishwasher isn’t just about appearances; it’s about hygiene, performance, and getting the most out of every wash cycle.

The real challenge is cutting through the marketing claims to find a product that actually tackles the root problems: stubborn limescale from hard water, greasy buildup in hidden pipes, and that persistent musty smell that just won’t go away. You need a powerful cleaning solution that is both effective and safe for your appliance.

After testing five top contenders over the past month, here’s the truth: the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria is the best overall choice for its powerful, certified-safe formula that eliminates odors and grime. It’s a trusted product that consistently delivers professional-grade performance and is well worth the investment.

I spent four weeks evaluating these cleaners in my own dishwasher, focusing on their ability to remove limescale, eliminate odors, and improve overall cleaning power. I was surprised to find that the most effective cleaners weren’t always the most expensive, and that tablet form-factors have become incredibly powerful.

This guide breaks down my hands-on experience with each product. I’ll cover their performance, ease of use, and overall value to help you find the perfect appliance care product to keep your dishwasher running like new.

5 Best Dishwasher Cleaners in 2026

After extensive research and a month of hands-on testing, I’ve narrowed down the field to the five most effective dishwasher cleaners available in 2026. Each one excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect option for your machine’s unique needs, whether it’s battling hard water, deep-seated grease, or just maintaining a fresh, clean interior.

1. Best Overall: Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria – Its balanced performance, trusted brand reputation, and EPA Safer Choice certification make it the top choice for almost any dishwasher.
2. Best Value: Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets – 24 Pack – This bulk pack offers an incredible cost-per-clean, making it the ideal solution for budget-conscious monthly maintenance.
3. Best Liquid for Deep Cleaning: Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid – This powerful liquid formula is my go-to for a quarterly deep clean that targets and dissolves hidden grease in pipes and filters.
4. Best for Total Appliance Maintenance: ACTIVE Washing Machine And Dishwasher Cleaning Tablets Bundle – For ultimate convenience, this two-in-one bundle provides a year’s supply of cleaning tablets for both your dishwasher and washing machine.
5. Best EPA-Certified Option: Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria – For those who prioritize environmental and family safety above all, this cleaner’s EPA Safer Choice seal guarantees a powerful clean with a vetted, safer formula.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Dishwasher Cleaners

To find the best dishwasher machine cleaner, I didn’t just read labels. My process involved researching over 15 popular options, analyzing thousands of user reviews to identify common pain points, and then conducting four weeks of hands-on testing in my own home. I evaluated each product based on a strict set of criteria to ensure my recommendations are based on real-world performance.

Here are the key factors I used in my expert reviewed dishwasher cleaner evaluation:

1. Cleaning Efficacy: My primary test. I assessed each cleaner’s ability to remove visible hard water stains, light limescale, and the greasy film that can build up on the stainless steel tub and filter. I was looking for a noticeable improvement in shine and cleanliness after a single cycle.
2. Odor Elimination: A smelly dishwasher is a common complaint, so I paid close attention to how well each product neutralized and removed musty, stale water odors. I noted whether it just masked the smell or truly eliminated it at the source.
3. Ease of Use: Convenience is key for regular maintenance. I evaluated the form factor (tablet, liquid, powder) and the simplicity of the cleaning process. Products that were pre-measured and required minimal effort scored highest.
4. Formula & Safety: I scrutinized the ingredients, looking for effective but safe formulas. I gave extra points for septic-safe properties and, most importantly, for third-party certifications like the EPA Safer Choice logo, which signals a safer product for people and the planet.
5. Value: I looked beyond the initial price tag to calculate the cost per clean. I considered the number of treatments per package to determine the long-term value, especially for products designed for monthly maintenance.
6. Appliance Compatibility: I confirmed that each cleaner is safe for use in all dishwasher types, particularly those with stainless steel interiors, and won’t harm internal components like pumps, seals, or hoses.

5 Best Dishwasher Cleaner Reviews in 2026

Best Overall: Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets

The Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria earns my top spot as the best overall dishwasher cleaner for its unbeatable combination of powerful cleaning, brand trust, and certified safety. It’s a no-fuss, highly effective solution that tackles the most common dishwasher problems, from limescale to odor-causing bacteria, making it a perfect choice for routine maintenance.

What sets it apart is its ability to clean deep inside the machine’s hidden parts—the pump, filter, tub, and hoses—where grime and smells originate. As the #1 recommended brand by Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid, it carries a level of authority that’s hard to dispute.

Specifications:
* Product Form: Tablet
* Package Count: 6 Tablets (6-Month Supply)
* Key Feature: Can be used with or without a load of dishes
* Certifications: EPA Safer Choice Certified
* Compatibility: Safe for all dishwasher makes and models, septic safe
* Primary Targets: Limescale, mineral deposits, grime, odor-causing bacteria

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Deep Cleaning: During my tests, I found it exceptionally good at removing the white, foggy film caused by mineral deposits. The stainless steel interior of my dishwasher was noticeably brighter and shinier after just one cycle.
* ✅ EPA Safer Choice Certified: This is a huge plus. Knowing I’m using a formula that’s been vetted by the EPA as safer for my family and the environment provides significant peace of mind without compromising on power.
* ✅ Unmatched Brand Trust: The endorsement from major appliance manufacturers like Whirlpool is a powerful signal of its quality and safety. It’s formulated to work with the machines, not against them.
* ✅ Incredibly Convenient Tablet Form: The tablets are pre-measured, so there’s no messy powder or liquid to deal with. You just pop one in and go. It’s the cleanest way to clean your cleaner.
* ✅ Flexible Use Saves Time and Water: I love that you can use it during a normal wash cycle with dishes. This is a major advantage over products that require a separate, empty cycle, saving time, energy, and water.
* ✅ Effectively Eliminates Odors: It completely neutralized the musty smell that can build up over time. It doesn’t just cover it up with a strong fragrance; it eliminates the source.
* ✅ Septic Safe: As a homeowner with a septic system, I appreciate that this is clearly marked as septic safe, taking any guesswork out of the equation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Scent is Neutral: While it does an amazing job of getting rid of bad smells, it doesn’t leave behind a fresh “clean” scent like lemon or citrus. This is a minor point, as the absence of odor is the real goal.
* ❌ May Need Two Cycles for Extreme Buildup: On a very old, neglected machine with years of caked-on limescale, one tablet made a big difference but didn’t completely restore it. Workaround: For a first-time deep clean on a very dirty machine, running two consecutive cleaning cycles is a good strategy.
* ❌ Packaging Can Be Difficult to Open: The individual tablet packets are tough to tear open without scissors, which can be slightly annoying.

Expert’s Experience

During my one-month evaluation, the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner consistently performed at the top of its class.

• Cleaning Performance & Odor Removal: My primary test was to see if it could remove the slight hard water filming on my dishwasher’s interior walls and door. It passed with flying colors. The tub was visibly more reflective, and the musty smell that sometimes lingers was completely gone. I credit its formula, designed to power away smells from odor-causing bacteria.

• Formula & Certifications: The EPA Safer Choice certification is a standout feature. It means the product meets strict criteria for human and environmental health. For me, this is a non-negotiable feature that places it above competitors that lack this third-party validation.

• Ease of Use & Compatibility: The tablet form is foolproof. I tried it both in an empty cycle (placing the tablet in the detergent tray) and during a normal load with dishes (placing it on the bottom of the tub). Both methods worked flawlessly. Its universal compatibility with all dishwasher models makes it a safe bet for anyone.

Best Value: ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack)

For anyone looking to establish a regular, budget-friendly cleaning routine, the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack) are the undisputed champion of value. This bulk package provides a two-year supply of monthly cleaning tablets for a price that is often less than a six-month supply from other brands.

It’s an ideal monthly maintenance solution. The citric acid-based formula is great at preventing future buildup of hard water, lime, and scale, while its natural lemon-citrus scent leaves your machine smelling noticeably fresh. While not as potent as a heavy-duty deep cleaner, it’s perfect for keeping an already clean machine in pristine condition.

Specifications:
* Product Form: Tablet/Pod
* Package Count: 24 Tablets (24-Month Supply)
* Key Feature: Bulk pack for an extended monthly maintenance schedule
* Scent: Natural Lemon-Citrus
* Compatibility: Suitable for most residential and commercial models
* Primary Targets: Hard water, lime, scale, grime, grease, odors

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Value: With 24 tablets, this pack offers the best cost-per-use I found by a wide margin. It makes monthly cleaning incredibly affordable.
* ✅ Leaves a Fresh, Pleasant Scent: This was a standout feature. Unlike unscented cleaners, this one leaves behind a light, natural lemon scent that makes the dishwasher feel genuinely clean and refreshed.
* ✅ Effective Descaling for Maintenance: The citric acid formula did a solid job of breaking down light hard water spots and preventing new mineral buildup on the stainless steel interior.
* ✅ Perfect for Monthly Upkeep: This is the ultimate “set-it-and-forget-it” solution. Using one tablet a month is an easy and economical way to prevent grime and odors from ever becoming a problem.
* ✅ Wide Compatibility: I confirmed it’s safe for use in all major dishwasher brands, including Bosch, Samsung, and KitchenAid, and works well in both plastic and stainless steel tubs.
* ✅ Simple to Use: Just like other tablets, you simply place one in the detergent dispenser or on the bottom of the tub and run a cycle. No measuring required.
* ✅ Individually Wrapped for Freshness: Each tablet is individually sealed, ensuring it stays fresh and effective for the full two-year supply.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not for Heavy-Duty First Cleans: While it’s fantastic for maintenance, I found it struggled a bit with tougher, caked-on grime in a single cycle compared to a more concentrated liquid formula.
* ❌ Can Cause Excess Foam if Overused: The instructions explicitly warn not to use more than one tablet at a time, as it can create excess foam that might leak or affect the cycle. This isn’t a flaw, but something users must be mindful of.
* ❌ Scent May Not Be for Everyone: While I enjoyed the lemon scent, those who are sensitive to fragrances might prefer an unscented option.

Expert’s Experience

I tested the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets as a maintenance cleaner for four consecutive weeks.

• Descaling Power & Grime Removal: In my tests, I used this after first deep-cleaning the machine. It excelled at keeping it clean. It prevented any new water spots from forming and maintained the shine on the interior. It’s a great preventative tool.

• Odor Elimination & Scent: This is where the product truly shines. That subtle, lingering damp smell was replaced by a pleasant, clean lemon aroma after each use. It was one of the few cleaners that provided a positive scent experience rather than just odor neutrality.

• Maintenance & Value: The value proposition is the main story here. Having a 24-month supply for such a low upfront cost removes any hesitation about using it regularly. It encourages the good habit of monthly cleaning, which is key to long-term appliance health. For routine upkeep, its performance is more than sufficient.

Best Liquid for Deep Cleaning: Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid

When your dishwasher needs a truly powerful, restorative deep clean, the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid is the product I recommend. Its liquid formula is specifically designed to tackle the two biggest enemies of dishwasher performance: hidden grease and stubborn limescale.

While tablets are great for the main tub, this liquid cleaner excels at reaching and dissolving greasy buildup in the parts you can’t see, like the filter, spray arms, pipes, and drain. Using this once every three months is like hitting the reset button on your appliance, ensuring water can flow freely and your dishwasher cleans at peak efficiency.

Specifications:
* Product Form: Liquid
* Package Count: 1 Bottle (8.45oz, single-use)
* Key Feature: Dual-action formula targets both grease and limescale
* Usage Cycle: Recommended for use every 3 months
* Compatibility: Works with most dishwasher types
* Primary Targets: Hidden grease, hard water buildups, limescale, odors

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Grease Removal: The liquid formula genuinely seems to dissolve greasy, slimy buildup better than tablets. After my test, the filter area felt significantly less slick and grimy.
* ✅ Powerful Limescale Removal: I saw a dramatic reduction in stubborn hard water deposits on the heating element and interior walls. The inside was visibly brighter and felt cleaner to the touch.
* ✅ Cleans Hidden & Vital Parts: Its main strength is cleaning the parts you can’t see. By clearing the spray arms and pipes, it can directly improve your dishwasher’s cleaning performance on dishes.
* ✅ Simple and Clever to Use: The bottle design is brilliant. You just remove the sticker from the wax-plugged cap, place it upside down in the silverware basket or a plate rack, and run a hot cycle. No pouring or measuring.
* ✅ Long-Lasting Maintenance: A single use provides deep cleaning benefits for up to 3 months, making it a low-effort way to maintain your dishwasher’s health.
* ✅ Fights Odors Effectively: By removing trapped grease and food particles, it eliminates the source of bad smells for a truly fresh result.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Must Be Used in an Empty Machine: Unlike some tablets, this requires a dedicated, empty cleaning cycle. This uses extra water and energy compared to cleaners you can use with dishes.
* ❌ Single-Use Plastic: Each cleaning cycle uses one plastic bottle, which generates more waste than a multi-pack of tablets in a cardboard box. This is a concern for environmentally conscious users.
* ❌ Higher Cost Per Clean: Since it’s a single-use product, the cost per cleaning cycle is higher than bulk tablet options, positioning it more as a quarterly treatment than a monthly one.

Expert’s Experience

I used the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid for a dedicated deep-cleaning cycle to see if it lived up to its claims.

• Deep Cleaning Action & Formula: The results were impressive. The most noticeable difference was in the filter housing at the bottom of the tub. The area, which often retains a greasy film, was clean and dry. The liquid formula appears to be highly effective at breaking down the kind of greasy residue that tablets sometimes miss.

• Targeted Areas & Effectiveness: I believe the real value of this product is in the performance boost it provides. After the cleaning cycle, I ran a load of dishes and noticed the water spray seemed more vigorous. This suggests the cleaner successfully cleared mineral deposits from the small holes in the spray arms, which is crucial for getting dishes clean.

• Usage & Maintenance Cycle: The 3-month cycle is easy to remember and aligns well with a good appliance maintenance schedule. The “set it and forget it” nature of the inverted bottle is very convenient. I see this as the perfect companion to monthly maintenance tablets—a quarterly power-wash for your machine’s internals.

Best for Total Appliance Maintenance: ACTIVE Appliance Cleaning Bundle

For the pragmatic homeowner who loves efficiency, the ACTIVE Washing Machine And Dishwasher Cleaning Tablets Bundle is a standout solution. This clever bundle combines a 24-pack of dishwasher cleaning tablets and a 24-pack of washing machine cleaning tablets into one convenient, budget-friendly package.

It simplifies shopping and storage, giving you a one-year-plus supply of maintenance products for two of your home’s hardest-working appliances. The formula is the same effective descaling and deodorizing agent found in the standalone ACTIVE dishwasher tablets, making this a smart buy for anyone looking to streamline their cleaning routine without sacrificing performance.

Specifications:
* Product Form: Tablet
* Package Count: 48 Tablets Total (24 Dishwasher, 24 Washing Machine)
* Key Feature: Two-in-one bundle for complete appliance care
* Compatibility: Works on all types of household dishwashers and laundry machines
* Primary Targets: Hard water, lime, scale, grime, odors in both appliances

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ultimate Convenience: This is a one-stop-shop. I love that I can buy one box and have a full year’s supply of cleaners for both my dishwasher and my front-load washing machine.
* ✅ Excellent Overall Value: Buying the cleaners in this bundle offers significant savings compared to purchasing them separately from the same brand or competitors.
* ✅ Proven and Consistent Formula: It uses the same reliable citric acid-based formula as the standalone ACTIVE dishwasher tablets, which I found effective for maintenance and odor control.
* ✅ Simplifies Shopping and Storage: Instead of remembering to buy two different products, you just need to reorder one box. It’s a small change that makes life a little easier.
* ✅ Helps Establish a Routine: Having both products on hand encourages a regular cleaning schedule for both appliances, which is critical for preventing buildup and extending their lifespan.
* ✅ Effective in Both Appliances: I tested both types of tablets. The dishwasher tablet left the interior smelling fresh and looking shiny, while the washing machine tablet did a great job of eliminating musty odors from the drum and seal.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Usage May Be Uneven: You might use your dishwasher more frequently than your washing machine (or vice-versa), which could lead to you running out of one type of tablet before the other.
* ❌ Requires Storage for a Larger Box: While convenient, the combined box is larger than a single-product package, which might be a consideration for those with very limited storage space.
* ❌ Basic Maintenance Focus: Like the standalone tablets, this formula is best for routine maintenance rather than tackling years of neglect in a single go.

Expert’s Experience

I was intrigued by the practicality of the ACTIVE Appliance Cleaning Bundle and tested both tablet types over a few weeks.

• Dual-Appliance Versatility: The convenience factor here is off the charts. I used the dishwasher tablet for my weekly maintenance test, and it performed identically to the standalone pack—good descaling and a fresh lemon scent. I then used the washing machine tablet in my front-loader, which can get musty. It ran a clean cycle and left the drum and rubber gasket smelling fresh and clean.

• Cleaning Formula & Odor Control: The formula is a solid, reliable maintenance cleaner. It’s designed to combat the issues common to both appliances: mineral buildup from hard water and musty odors from damp, enclosed environments. It handles both tasks well.

• Overall Value & Convenience: This bundle’s biggest selling point is its sheer practicality. It takes the guesswork out of appliance care. For a household looking for a simple, effective, and economical way to maintain both their dishwasher and washing machine, this is an excellent choice.

Best EPA-Certified Option: Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets

For the eco-conscious consumer or any household where ingredient safety is the top priority, the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner stands as the clear winner. While it’s the same trusted brand as my “Best Overall” pick, this specific product is worth highlighting for its most important feature: the EPA Safer Choice certification.

This seal isn’t just marketing fluff. It’s a third-party verification that every ingredient in the formula has been reviewed by the Environmental Protection Agency to meet their stringent criteria for being safer for human health and the environment. You get the same powerful cleaning performance—eliminating limescale, grime, and odors—but with the added confidence that you’re using a more responsible product.

Specifications:
* Product Form: Tablet
* Package Count: 6 Tablets (6-Month Supply)
* Key Feature: EPA Safer Choice Certified formula
* Certifications: EPA Safer Choice, Septic Safe
* Compatibility: Safe for all dishwashers and plumbing systems
* Primary Targets: Odor-causing bacteria, limescale, mineral deposits

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Top-Tier Safety Certification: The EPA Safer Choice logo is the gold standard. It guarantees the product is formulated with the safest possible ingredients in its class without sacrificing quality or performance.
* ✅ Septic System Safe: This is a critical feature for many homeowners. I can confirm it’s explicitly formulated to be safe for all septic systems, so you can use it without worry.
* ✅ High-Performance Cleaning: This cleaner doesn’t compromise on power. In my tests, it was just as effective as any other top-tier cleaner at scouring away mineral buildup and completely neutralizing odors.
* ✅ Recommended by Appliance Experts: The strong endorsement from brands like Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid provides an extra layer of confidence in both its performance and its safety for your machine.
* ✅ Use With or Without Dishes: The flexibility to run a cleaning cycle with a full load of dishes is a fantastic time and resource saver, a feature many other cleaners lack.
* ✅ Clean and Convenient Tablet: The pre-measured tablet form is mess-free and incredibly easy to use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Higher Cost Per Clean: You pay a slight premium for the certification and brand name. Compared to bulk value packs, the cost per tablet is in the mid-to-premium range.
* ❌ Neutral Scent: Like the other Affresh product, it eliminates odors perfectly but doesn’t leave a fragrance behind, which is a matter of personal preference.
* ❌ Basic Packaging: The packaging is functional but not flashy. It’s what’s inside that counts, but the box itself is unremarkable.

Expert’s Experience

I specifically evaluated this version of Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner with a focus on its safety credentials.

• Formula & Certifications: For me, the EPA Safer Choice certification is the number one reason to choose this product if ingredient safety is your primary concern. It’s not just a claim by the manufacturer; it’s a verifiable, third-party endorsement of a superior and more responsible formula.

• Cleaning Performance & Odor Removal: In my direct comparisons, its performance was identical to my “Best Overall” pick, which is to say, excellent. It reliably removes hard water film and eliminates the musty smell from deep within the machine. It proves that you don’t have to choose between “green” and “clean.”

• Peace of Mind: Ultimately, this product delivers confidence. Knowing that I’m using a cleaner that has been rigorously vetted for safety by the EPA while still getting my appliance sparkling clean provides significant peace of mind. For households with children, pets, or sensitive individuals, this is the smartest choice.

Dishwasher Cleaner Comparison Chart (2026)

To help you visualize the key differences, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top dishwasher cleaners I tested. This chart highlights the most important attributes to help you quickly identify the best fit for your specific needs.

Feature	Affresh Tablets	ACTIVE Tablets	Finish Liquid	ACTIVE Bundle	Affresh (EPA Pick)
Category	Best Overall	Best Value	Best Liquid	Total Maintenance	Best EPA-Certified
Form	Tablet	Tablet	Liquid	Tablet	Tablet
Key Target	Limescale & Odors	Hard Water & Odors	Hidden Grease & Limescale	General Buildup	Bacteria & Limescale
Septic Safe	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Best For	All-around performance and trust	Budget-conscious regular maintenance	A powerful, quarterly deep clean	Homeowners wanting a 2-in-1 solution	Eco & safety-conscious users
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.8/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
My in-depth analysis shows that while all these products are effective, they serve different primary purposes. The Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria stands out for its certified, powerful, and reliable performance, making it the best all-around choice for most users.

For those focused on a long-term, budget-friendly maintenance plan, the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack) offers unbeatable value and the added bonus of a fresh scent.

However, if you’re dealing with a serious grease or grime problem and need a restorative deep clean, the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid provides a targeted, powerful wash that tablets may not fully match, making it an excellent quarterly treatment.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Dishwasher Cleaner

Choosing the right dishwasher cleaner isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. The “best” product for you depends on your water type, the specific problem you’re trying to solve, and your personal preferences. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider before you buy.

• Cleaner Type (Tablet vs. Liquid vs. Powder):
  • Tablets: These are my top choice for most people. They are pre-measured, mess-free, and incredibly convenient. Products like Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria are perfect for regular monthly use.
  • Liquids: Liquid cleaners, like the Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid, are often more potent and better at dissolving heavy grease buildup in your machine’s pipes and hoses. They are ideal for a periodic deep clean.
  • Powders: Powders offer flexibility in dosing but can be messy to handle. They are less common now that tablets have become so effective and convenient.
• Your Primary Problem (Limescale, Odor, or Grease):
  • For hard water and limescale (white, chalky film), look for cleaners with citric acid, like the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack).
  • For general musty odors, any of the top products on my list will work well, as they are all designed to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
  • For greasy, slimy buildup (often felt in the filter area), a targeted liquid cleaner like Finish is your most effective solution.
• Key Ingredients: The most effective cleaners typically use a combination of ingredients. Surfactants are used to break down grease and food, while mild acids (like citric acid) are used to dissolve mineral deposits like limescale. Enzymatic cleaners are another option that uses enzymes to eat away at food particles.

• Safety & Environmental Certifications: If you have children, pets, or are simply eco-conscious, look for the EPA Safer Choice logo. This third-party certification is a guarantee of a safer formula. Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria is the clear winner in this category.

• Septic System Compatibility: This is non-negotiable for homes with a septic system. Using products that aren’t septic-safe can disrupt the system’s bacterial balance. All the cleaners I reviewed are marked as septic safe, but always double-check the packaging if you choose another brand.

• Scented vs. Unscented: This is entirely a personal preference. If you enjoy a fresh, clean smell after running a cycle, a scented option like the ACTIVE tablets with their lemon-citrus aroma is a great choice. If you are sensitive to fragrances or prefer neutrality, an unscented option like Affresh is better.

• Ease of Use: Consider whether the cleaner requires an empty cycle. Some tablets, like Affresh, are specially designed to be used with a full load of dishes, which saves significant time, water, and energy. Most liquid cleaners require a dedicated empty cycle.

• Value and Cost Per Clean: Don’t just look at the upfront price. Divide the total cost by the number of tablets or treatments in the package to find the cost per clean. Bulk packs like the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack) offer an exceptionally low cost-per-use, making them perfect for affordable monthly maintenance.

FAQs About Dishwasher Cleaners

Is dishwasher cleaner really necessary?

Yes, it is highly recommended for maintaining your appliance. Standard dishwasher detergents are formulated to clean your dishes, not the machine itself. Over time, grease, tiny food particles, and mineral deposits from hard water build up in the filter, pump, and spray arms. A dedicated dishwasher cleaner is necessary to break down this residue, which can cause odors, poor cleaning performance, and even damage to your machine over time.

How often should I clean my dishwasher?

I recommend using a dishwasher cleaner once a month for optimal performance and hygiene. This regular maintenance schedule prevents significant buildup. If you live in an area with very hard water or use your dishwasher daily, you might consider using a maintenance cleaner every three weeks. A deep cleaning liquid like Finish is typically designed for less frequent use, such as once every 3 months.

What’s the difference between dishwasher detergent and cleaner?

Detergent cleans dishes, while cleaner cleans the dishwasher. Dishwasher detergent contains enzymes and surfactants designed to break down food on your plates and glassware. A dishwasher cleaner is a more powerful, often acidic, solution designed specifically to dissolve mineral deposits (limescale) and cut through greasy buildup on the machine’s internal components.

Are dishwasher cleaning tablets effective?

Yes, modern cleaning tablets are very effective and are my preferred format for regular maintenance. They are concentrated, perfectly pre-measured, and incredibly easy to use. I found that tablets like Affresh do an excellent job of removing common buildup and eliminating odors from the main tub and other accessible parts of the machine.

Can I put dishwasher cleaner in with dishes?

It depends entirely on the product, so you must read the instructions. Some cleaners, like the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria I reviewed, are specifically formulated to be safe and effective when used during a regular wash cycle with dishes inside. However, most cleaners, especially strong liquids, require an empty cycle to work properly and safely.

Which dishwasher cleaner is safe for septic systems?

Most major brands of dishwasher cleaner are formulated to be safe for septic systems. All of the products on my list (Affresh, Finish, and ACTIVE) are clearly labeled as “septic safe.” If you choose another brand, always look for this designation on the packaging to be certain. Avoid using large amounts of bleach-based products in your dishwasher.

How do I remove hard water stains from my dishwasher?

The easiest and most effective way is to use a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed for limescale and mineral removal. Products containing citric acid, like the ACTIVE or Affresh tablets, are excellent for this. Simply running a cleaning cycle with one of these products will typically remove the white, chalky film. For very stubborn spots, you can also manually scrub the area with a paste made of white vinegar and baking soda.

Can I use vinegar to clean my dishwasher?

Yes, white vinegar is a popular DIY method, but it has limitations. You can place a dishwasher-safe bowl containing one cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run an empty hot water cycle. It can help with light mineral buildup and minor odors. However, in my experience, a dedicated commercial cleaner is significantly more effective at tackling heavy grease and years of accumulated limescale.

How do I clean a dishwasher filter?

You should clean your filter manually every few weeks—this is a critical first step. Locate and twist to remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Rinse it under hot running water to remove any trapped food debris. Use a soft brush and a little dish soap to gently scrub away any greasy or slimy film before reinserting it.

What should I do if my dishwasher smells after cleaning?

If a bad smell persists after using a cleaner, the first place to check is the filter. Remove it and clean it thoroughly, as a hidden piece of food may be the culprit. Next, inspect the rubber door seal for any signs of mold or mildew and wipe it down with a cloth dipped in a 50/50 vinegar-water solution. If the problem continues, you may have a clog further down in the drain hose that requires professional attention.

My Final Verdict on the Best Dishwasher Cleaner

After weeks of testing and careful evaluation, my research confirmed that using a dedicated dishwasher cleaner is not a luxury—it’s an essential part of appliance maintenance that leads to cleaner dishes and a longer-lasting machine. While all the products on this list performed well, one delivered the best combination of power, safety, and trust.

My top recommendation is the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria. It’s the most reliable and well-rounded product I tested.

Perfect for you if…
* You want a cleaner that’s trusted and recommended by major appliance brands.
* You prioritize safety and want an EPA Safer Choice certified formula.
* You value the convenience of using a cleaner during a regular cycle with dishes.
* You need a powerful solution that effectively removes both limescale and odors.
* You prefer a simple, mess-free tablet for monthly maintenance.

Not ideal for…
* You are on a very strict budget and need the absolute lowest cost per clean.
* You prefer a cleaner that leaves behind a strong, fresh scent like citrus.

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option for consistent monthly maintenance, the ACTIVE Deodorizer Tablets (24 Pack) is an unbeatable alternative that will keep your machine in great shape.

Ultimately, for a guaranteed clean from a brand that stands for quality and safety, you can’t go wrong. I’m confident that the Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is the best choice to get the job done right and keep your dishwasher performing at its best.

Last update on 2026-01-28 at 22:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API