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Keeping your dishes sparkling clean is a top priority for any kitchen. The right dishwasher detergent can make a significant difference, tackling tough grease and food residues effectively while also protecting your dishwasher. Choosing a quality detergent ensures optimal performance and longevity for your appliance.
Cascade cleaning power allows you to skip pre-washing dishes, saving up to 15 gallons of water with each load
More tough food-cleaning ingredients (vs. regular Cascade Gel)
Also available in easy-to-use ActionPacs
#1 Recommended Brand in North America* *More dishwasher brands in North America recommend Cascade vs. any other automatic dishwashing detergent brand, recommendations as part of co-marketing agreements
Our best dishwasher detergent for up to 100% Food Residue Removal
Only Cascade Platinum Plus contains 2X* the Dawn grease fighting power and 2X* the scrubbing power to power through dried on food *Cleaning ingredients vs Cascade Complete ActionPacs
Removes visible and invisible residues for virtually spotfree and shiny dishes
40% larger liquid top for even more* cleaning power that still fits in your dishwasher detergent dispenser *vs Cascade Platinum ActionPacs
2X CLEANING POWER: Cascade Platinum Gel has 2X the Cleaning Power* of Cascade Complete gel and is formulated with the grease-fighting power of Dawn *on starch & protein soils vs. Cascade Complete Gel
REMOVES UP TO 99% OF STUCK ON FOOD: Cascade Platinum Gel removes up to 99% of stuck on food
ALL-IN-ONE CLEAN: Cascade Platinum Gel Gives you an all-in-one clean: it pre-treats, cleans and shines
FORMULATED WITH THE POWER OF DAWN: Cascade is the only dishwasher detergent formulated with the grease fighting power of Dawn dish soap.
DISHWASHING LIQUID: Deep cleaning power of gel dish soap gets dirty dishes sparkling clean; this dish detergent works fast to remove stains and caked-on dried food
DISHWASHER GEL: Easy to pour and mess-free for a better dishwashing experience**
NUMBER ONE: Finish is the #1 Auto Dishwashing Global Brand*
PLASTIC FREE: Finish Gel Liquid detergent made with a 100% plastic-free formula
REMOVES GREASE ON CONTACT: Dawn Ultra packs a powerful punch of grease-fighting power for a deep, sparkling clean
REFILL WITHOUT THE SPILL: Our new and improved jug features an easy-pour spout and comfortable handle to make refilling any Dawn dish soap bottle easier, faster, and less messy *vs. our previous jug.
SAME CLEAN, BETTER VALUE: Save money* and save plastic when refilling with our dish soap refill jug (*when comparing $/oz within same sub-brand). You can fill multiple standard or EZ-Squeeze bottles with just one jug of Dawn.
SAVES WILDLIFE: Dawn dish soap is the only brand trusted by rescue workers* to clean wildlife impacted by oil spills. (*International Bird Rescue uses Dawn Platinum)
1. GREASE FIGHTING POWER: Cascade dishwasher pods dissolve fast to release the grease fighting power of Dawn
2. SPOTFREE CLEAN DISHES: Get virtually spotfree sparkling clean dishes from even the toughest messes with these dishwasher detergent pods, a must-have among your cleaning supplies
3. WATER SAVING: Running the dishwasher daily saves water*. *ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers use less than 4 gallons per cycle. Running the tap for 11 minutes while handwashing uses up to 24 gallons of water
4. 1 RECOMMENDED BRAND: More dishwasher brands in North America recommend Cascade based on co-marketing agreements vs. other automatic dishwasher detergent brands
FRESH SCENT DISHWASHER PACS: Leaves dishes clean and smelling fresh after every cycle.
2-IN-1 GREASE-FIGHTING FORMULA: Combines powerful dishwasher detergent with built-in rinse aid to help break down grease and food residue for sparkling clean dishes.
NO PRE-RINSE NEEDED: Designed to tackle tough food messes without pre-rinsing, saving time and water.
POWERFUL CLEAN IN EVERY LOAD: Pacs dissolve during the wash cycle to help remove grease, stuck-on food, and everyday messes.
Last update on 2026-10-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Dishwasher Detergent
Environmental Impact and Scent
Many consumers prefer eco-friendly options. Look for detergents labeled as biodegradable, phosphate-free, or made with plant-derived ingredients. Scented detergents can leave a pleasant aroma, but fragrance-free options are ideal for those with sensitivities or allergies. Ensure the detergent is safe for your specific dishwasher model and doesn't contain harsh chemicals that could damage the interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular dish soap in my dishwasher?
No, you should never use regular dish soap in an automatic dishwasher. Regular dish soap creates excessive suds that can overflow the dishwasher and potentially damage the appliance. Dishwasher detergents are specifically formulated to be low-sudsing and safe for machine use.
How much detergent should I use?
The amount of detergent needed depends on the type of detergent and the load size. For powders and gels, follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage, often indicated on the packaging or inside the dishwasher's dispenser. Pods are pre-portioned, so one pod per cycle is typically sufficient.
What causes white spots on my dishes?
White spots are usually caused by hard water mineral deposits or inadequate rinsing. Using a detergent formulated for hard water, ensuring your dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser is full, and running a hot water cycle can help mitigate this issue.
Are pods more effective than powder or gel?
Pods often offer convenience and a potent cleaning combination, but their effectiveness can vary by brand and formulation. Powders and gels can be more economical and allow for dosage adjustment, which might be beneficial for lighter loads or specific cleaning needs.
How do I store dishwasher detergent?
Dishwasher detergent should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and humidity. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent clumping and maintain effectiveness. Storing it out of reach of children and pets is also important for safety.
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