The Best Dishwasher Detergents of 2025

Having the right dishwasher detergent can make the difference between sparkling clean dishes and a frustrating re-wash. While convenient pods dominate the market, liquid and powder detergents offer flexible dosing, cost savings, and eco-friendly advantages.

If you're interested in this cleaning conundrum, keep reading. We focus on the best dishwasher detergents (liquid gels and powders) that you can buy right now, highlighting top performers released in the past few years alongside trusted bestsellers.

We’ve combed through lab tests by experts, including our own, and hundreds of real-world reviews to find formulas that truly shine. Our picks cover a range of needs, from a powerful best overall performer Cascade Complete Gel & Oxi (available at Amazon for $6.44) to an eco-friendly plant-based standout.

Whether you’re looking for intense cleaning power for baked-on grime or a gentler biodegradable formula for a septic system, our list has you covered. Let’s dive into the top picks for liquid and powder dishwasher detergents!

What to Consider When Choosing a Dishwasher Detergent

Selecting a dishwasher detergent involves more than just grabbing a familiar brand name or a sale item off a supermarket shelf. Keep these key factors in mind to find the best fit for your preferences and household.

Detergent format: Liquid vs. Powder vs. Packs

Liquid and powder detergents each have unique pros. Liquids, or gels, dissolve quickly, making them ideal for short cycles and gentle on delicate glassware because there are no abrasive granules. They are easy to pour, and you can dose as precisely as needed.

Powders, however, are often the most economical option, and they typically contain potent cleaning agents like chlorine bleach for stain removal. You can also adjust the amount of powder to use. But powders can clump if exposed to moisture and can be messy to handle.

Pods and tablets (though not covered in this article) are super convenient and often combine the best of both styles—they are pre-measured and contain both liquid and powder elements—but they cost more and lock you into one dose size.

If you prioritize cost or adjustable dosing, liquids or powders are the way to go. If you prioritize ultimate convenience (and don’t mind paying more), pods might appeal, but note that pods generally have slightly better cleaning performance in lab tests due to their multi-component formulas.

Cleaning power: Enzymes and bleach

Modern dishwasher detergents achieve cleaning through a combination of chemicals.

Enzymes are biological proteins or catalysts (examples like protease and amylase) that break down food soils. They work exceptionally well on protein deposits such as eggs and dairy, and starches like pasta and oatmeal. Enzyme-based detergents (e.g., Cascade Complete, Seventh Generation) excel at cleaning loads with mixed organic residues. If you aren't in the habit of pre-rinsing dishes, you'll do best with a detergent that has enzymes on its label.

Many detergents include a form of bleach for stain removal. Chlorine bleach, often noted as sodium hypochlorite, is fast-acting on coffee, tea, and tomato stains, but it can be harsh on your dishes. It’s found in many powders and some gels like Finish. Oxygen bleach, also known as sodium percarbonate, releases hydrogen peroxide, making it gentler. It is found in some formulas, such as Cascade with Oxi and Seventh Generation powder.

Bleach-free formulas rely solely on enzymes and surfactants to clean, which is fine for most day-to-day cleaning, but might not entirely remove stubborn tannin stains on mugs.

If you drink a lot of tea and coffee, consider using a detergent with a bleaching agent to keep your cups brighter. However, if you have colored cookware or patterns, opt for oxygen bleach—it's a safer choice because chlorine can fade patterns over time.

Water hardness compatibility

Water hardness can significantly affect dishwasher results, which is unfortunate, but good to know. According to the USGS, hard water—water that’s high in dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium—affects more than 85% of U.S. households. It often causes spotting or a white film on dishes. Some detergents are formulated with water softening salts or additives to tackle this. For example, detergents containing sodium carbonate, citrates, or phosphonates (like Finish’s ingredients) will bind minerals and reduce spotting.

If you have hard water:

• Consider using a detergent marketed for hard water or with built-in boosters.
• Powder detergents let you dose a bit extra or add a booster (like Lemi-Shine) for very hard water, whereas pods are one-size-fits-all. Many people with hard water find that powders are more effective when used with a rinse aid.
• Always use a rinse aid in hard water areas, regardless of detergent, to help prevent spotting and filming. Some detergents (like certain Finish pods) include rinse aid functions, but with liquids and powders, you’ll likely add it separately.
• If you notice a chalky residue on your dishes or the machine itself, check your dishwasher’s internal water softener (if it has one) or slightly increase the amount of detergent you use. And select a cycle with a hotter final rinse.

Ingredients and environmental impact

Dishwasher detergents have become much more eco-friendly in recent years. Phosphates, common for water softening in the 1970s through the early 2000s, are now widely banned in household detergents in the U.S.

If you’re still concerned about chemicals, look for biodegradable and/or plant-based formulas, like Seventh Generation, Method, ECOS, and Dirty Labs. These products forgo chlorine bleach, using oxygen bleach and enzymes instead, and avoid synthetic fragrances and dyes. They are generally septic-safe and better for aquatic environments. Note that “natural” detergents have improved—older ones struggled in cleaning tests, but newer formulations (like Method’s packs or Dirty Labs) have closed the performance gap.

Also, check out safety grades from resources like the EWG (Environmental Working Group). For instance, EWG assigns hazard score ratings of B, C, D, and F to many popular Cascade and Finish products (due to ingredients like chlorine and preservatives), whereas some (not all) products from Seventh Generation or ECOS have earned As for fewer health hazards. According to EWG, there is only one EWG Verified (the best score a product can get—better than an A) dishwashing detergent, and that’s Norwex UltraZyme Dishwasher Powder.

Lastly, look to eliminate fragrance and dyes. These don’t affect cleaning, but they do matter for personal preferences. Some detergents have strong scents (Cascade’s typical “fresh” scent, Finish’s signature orange, etc.). If you dislike residual scent on plasticware or are sensitive to chemicals, opt for formulas that list as free and clear. Our guide includes both scented and unscented picks. Any good dishwasher should rinse enough that dishes come out scent-neutral. If you still smell detergent on dishes, you might be using too much or your water temperature is too low.

Dishwasher and cycle compatibility

All modern dishwashers are designed to work with either format (gel or powder), but there are a couple of considerations.

If you have an older dishwasher or vintage machine without a built-in rinse aid dispenser or with shorter wash cycles, a powder or gel can actually be beneficial, as you can add a bit more detergent or a booster to compensate for a weaker spray. Pods might not fully dissolve in machines that don’t heat water adequately. Liquids dissolve the fastest, so they’re a safe bet for any machine.

Gels are great for quick wash and other shorter cycles because they dissolve and start working almost instantly. Powders might not dissolve completely in a 1-hour quick cycle, especially if you have hard water or use a tablet pod (some users report undissolved particles with short washes). If you frequently use short cycles, consider a quality gel (Finish or Cascade) or a fast-dissolving powder used sparingly.

Enzyme-based detergents actually work better at lower temps (120°F to 130°F) than bleach-based ones, because chlorine bleach needs higher temps to be effective and can deactivate enzymes at too high a heat. So for “eco” wash settings, an enzyme formula (Cascade Complete, Seventh Generation) is a good match. Conversely, high-temp “sanitize” cycles will activate oxygen bleach but could burn off enzyme activity; pair those cycles with a detergent that has oxygen bleach and not rely solely on enzymes.

Safety and storage

Dishwasher detergents are potent, and some forms come with safety perks. For example, if you have young children at home, you may want to stick with liquids and powders because those colorful detergent pods can look like candy to a little one. Also, many gels now come with child-resistant caps, but you should always tighten caps and store detergents out of reach.

When storing, make sure to keep detergents dry and sealed. Powders can absorb humidity and clump or lose effectiveness over time. It’s actually better not to stockpile huge boxes for too long (ahem, Costco); just buy what you’ll use in a couple of months. Gels can separate, too, so give the bottle a shake occasionally, and never keep a bottle for years. Fresh detergent equals better cleaning results.

Never, ever mix different detergents or additives unless directed. And, for the love of Santa Claus, don’t pour liquid dish soap (for hand washing) into your dishwasher—it will create a sudsy flood! Only use detergents labeled for automatic dishwashers.

Other features and tips

Some detergents advertise extras like “glass shine,” “rinse aid action,” or “machine cleaner” in their formulas. But what does that really mean? If you already use a separate rinse aid, these features are less critical. But if you prefer fewer products, you might like a detergent that doubles as a rinse aid, as some gels claim.

If you are using a good detergent and your dishes still aren’t coming out clean, the detergent might not be the issue. You may need to clean your dishwasher filter or spray arms, learn to load the dishwasher correctly, or check if your water is hot enough.

Machine-cleaning agents in detergents are relatively new. Most people just run a monthly cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar. If you don't or haven't yet, your dishwasher may be gross, so look into changing that. A top-notch detergent can’t compensate for a malfunctioning machine or poor loading, so make sure those bases are covered, too.

Know your water, your dishwasher, and your preferences, and you'll be grand. For most people, Cascade or Finish will give spotless results. However, if you have specific needs to consider, like budget, green ingredients, or hard water, the market offers excellent alternatives. Don’t be afraid to experiment—change one variable at a time and see how your dishes respond.

Dishwasher Detergents—They’re Not for Everyone

The liquid gel and powder detergents we’ve highlighted are among the best, but no product is one-size-fits-all.

They’re not as convenient as pods

If you prioritize convenience and absolutely hate measuring or dealing with any mess, then pre-measured pods or tablets might suit you better. The detergents in this article require you to pour or scoop them into the dispenser. While it only takes a few seconds, some busy users or those with limited dexterity might prefer the simplicity of pods.

However, convenience comes at a cost. Pods are pricier per load, and you lose the flexibility of using a half-dose for a small load. If you’re willing to pay for ease, opt for pods. For more frugal consumers, a little measuring can save a lot of money.

Gels and powders don’t do as well with stuck-on, burnt-on everything

If every other load you run looks like a casserole disaster, and you refuse to pre-soak or scrape, you might find even the best liquid and powder detergents aren’t magic bullets. The most powerful pod packs (which often contain multiple cleaning phases and higher concentrations) can have an edge on truly baked-on grime. If you regularly face extremely tough loads (think broiler pans with char, lasagna pans with burnt cheese), you may either need to do a quick pre-rinse/soak or consider keeping a stash of heavy-duty pods for those occasions. In regular daily use, powder and gel detergents can handle 95% of messes with no issue, but not for everyone who treats their dishwasher like a garbage disposal.

They’re not super eco-friendly

If you’re extremely eco-conscious, you might find even our eco-friendly picks not extreme enough. For instance, a powder box may have a thin plastic liner to keep the detergent dry or be manufactured with some non-organic components.

Instead, consider making your own DIY dishwasher powder (common ingredients: washing soda, borax, citric acid, salt), or stick with plain baking soda and vinegar—though cleaning performance will definitely suffer.

A machine with specific requirements

A minority of dishwashers, especially some European models or commercial ones, might recommend against certain detergent types. For example, Miele suggests its own tablets for optimal results, especially if you own a Miele dishwasher. Lucky you!

If your dishwasher’s manual or your appliance technician has advised using a particular type of detergent (say, only powder), then sticking with that rec probably trumps our own.

Also, if your dishwasher has a built-in water softener, you may achieve the best cleaning results with a powder formula.

FAQ: Dishwasher Detergents

Is liquid or powder dishwasher detergent better?

Neither is universally “better,” it depends on your priorities. Powder detergents are usually cheapest per load and let you easily adjust the dosage. They often contain traditional ingredients like chlorine bleach that can be great for stain removal, and they store well in a dry form. However, powders can clump if not stored properly, and handling can be messy.

Liquid/ and gel detergents are convenient to pour, dissolve quickly (ideal for short cycles or quick release of cleaning agents), and are gentler on fine china and glass since there’s no grit. Gels often include enzymes and sometimes oxygen bleach, but some people feel they’re a tad less potent on really baked-on grime compared to the strongest powders and pacs.

It may be that the most significant performance differences are between brands rather than between forms.

Can I use less detergent than the recommended amount?

Yes. Using a little less can be wise in some instances. The “fill line” in detergent dispensers or instructions on the box are general guidelines for a full, normally soiled load. If you have a lightly soiled load (say, glasses and lightly used plates) or a half load, you can use less detergent. Many users find that overdosing detergent can leave residue or film, especially with soft water.

It’s actually a common misconception that more detergent equals cleaner dishes; too much can lead to leftover suds or etching of glass. Start with the recommended amount, and if you notice streaks or a rainbow film on glasses, try cutting back a bit. With high-quality detergents, even 3/4 of a scoop can often clean a normal load just fine.

However, don’t severely underdose either. If you use too little, especially with hard water, dishes may come out dirty or with deposits because there wasn’t enough cleaning agent to bind all the minerals and grease. It’s a balance.

One nice thing about liquids and powders is this flexibility, and you don’t have that with pre-made pods. Pro tip: If you have soft water, you definitely should use less than a full dose—your glassware will thank you.

My dishes smell like wet dog after running the dishwasher—is it the detergent?

That “wet dog” smell (or other unpleasant odors on dishes) is a fairly common complaint, but it’s not usually the detergent’s fault. In fact, a good detergent should leave dishes completely odorless.

The wet dog smell is often caused by trapped food residue or a dirty dishwasher filter. First, check and clean your dishwasher’s filter (located at the tub's bottom); a clogged filter can recirculate smelly grime. Also, check for any gunk around the door gasket or spray arms.

Another culprit can be plastic items. Cheap plastics sometimes emit a weird smell when heated and wet (some say “wet dog” or “fishy”). Detergents can sometimes interact with certain plastics, too. To troubleshoot, run a cycle with an empty load and just a bowl of white vinegar on the top rack to give it a good deodorizing clean.

Make sure you’re not leaving dishes sitting dirty in the machine for too many days, because this can also breed smells. If you still notice the odor, try switching detergents to see if it persists.

Are dishwasher detergents safe for my septic system?

Yes. All modern dishwasher detergents, including every product in our roundup, are septic-safe. The key concern with septic systems used to be phosphates, which could upset the balance of the septic tank microbes and also cause environmental issues downstream. Phosphates have been removed from household detergents in the U.S.

Additionally, the biodegradable surfactants and enzymes in many formulas break down and shouldn’t harm septic bacteria. Chlorine bleach will dilute out in the wash water and is in a low enough concentration per load that it won’t kill off a healthy septic colony. If you want to be extra cautious, choose a plant-based detergent, which has no chlorine or formaldehyde donors.

Do I still need a rinse aid with these detergents?

In many cases, yes, a rinse aid is recommended. This surfactant solution helps water sheet off dishes in the final rinse, preventing droplets that cause spots or poor drying. Some of the detergents we listed claim to have “built-in rinse aid” or shine agents. These do help, but they are not as effective as using a dedicated rinse aid dispenser in your machine.

All modern dishwashers have a rinse aid dispenser; fill it, and it will automatically dispense a small amount in the final hot rinse. It’s a cheap step to boost performance.

How do I store dishwasher detergent properly?

Store it in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets. For powders, keep the box or tub tightly sealed to prevent moisture ingress—moisture will clump the powder and reduce its effectiveness. If your powder came in a cardboard box that doesn’t reseal well, you can transfer it to an airtight plastic container. For liquids and gels, ensure the cap is closed tightly; some gels have a child-safe squeeze-and-turn cap.

Avoid storing any detergent in extreme heat or freezing temperatures. A garage in sub-zero winter could potentially freeze and destabilize a liquid detergent; excessive heat (over 95°F) might break down enzymes. Normal room temperature is ideal.

Lastly, to prevent any accidental mix-ups or contamination, keep detergents far away from food storage areas.

Read More About Dishwashers on Reviewed

• Powder, gel, or tabs: Which dishwasher detergent cleans best?: Reviewed’s experts dive deep into how different forms of detergents compare, and why pods often outperform.
• You’re using your dishwasher wrong—7 common mistakes: Follow these tips on loading, pre-rinsing, using rinse aid, and more.
• How to load a dishwasher, according to the pros: Great strategies for optimally loading dishes, glassware, pots, and utensils to maximize water coverage and avoid “shadowing.”
• Your dishwasher is gross—here’s how to clean it: A handy how-to for deep cleaning your dishwasher to keep odors and grime at bay. A must-read if you’ve never cleaned your dishwasher before.
• Best Dishwashers of 2025, Tested by Experts: If you’re also in the market for a new dishwasher, Reviewed’s roundup highlights the top models (and pairing a great machine with a great detergent equals dishwashing bliss).