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Best Dishwasher Detergents for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: January 6th, 2024

Last Updated: June 11th, 2024

🍽️Picking the right dishwasher detergent can make a night-and-day difference in how clean your dishes come out. After a ton of research and testing, we’ve got a list of standout detergents that cater to every need, whether you’re after powerful cleaning, eco-friendly ingredients, or a budget-friendly option. Here are our top picks to help your dishes shine every wash.

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Overall Best: Cascade Platinum ActionPac Pods

Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent Pods, Mountain, 62 Count

The Cascade Platinum ActionPac Pods come out on top for their unbeatable cleaning performance and convenience. These pods tackle tough stains and baked-on food like a pro, ensuring your dishes come out spotless even in hard water. We found that its powerful formula requires no pre-rinsing and leaves no residue behind. While it's on the pricier side per wash, the effectiveness you get justifies the cost. Plus, the fresh scent is a pleasant bonus, making these pods a hassle-free solution for anyone looking to streamline their dishwashing routine.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$21.40 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Cascade Platinum Plus Dishwasher Pods, Mountain, 62 Count? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How effective is Cascade Platinum Plus at removing tough stains?

Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs are pretty well-known for handling tough stains in the dishwasher department. From what we've found, these pods have a strong cleaning edge—they're especially good at dealing with stubborn food bits. Many folks mention they leave dishes looking really clean and shiny, free from those annoying spots and clinging grime, which is great for food that's really stuck on. One thing people seem to love is their ability to deal with grease. The manufacturer mentions these pods pack double the punch of the usual [Cascade Complete](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcascade%2Bcomplete%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) formula when it comes to cutting through greasy stuff and food debris. So, you can skip that whole pre-washing and soaking hassle and still get clean results. On the flip side, there are mixed thoughts about the Mountain scent. While some enjoy its fresh smell, others find it a bit too strong, especially on plastics and things that absorb scents. This strong fragrance might even affect how food and drinks taste, which has led some people to switch to the Fresh scent or try out the [Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcascade%2Bfree%2B%26%2Bclear%2Bactionpacs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for a milder smell. As for cost, these ActionPacs may cost a bit more than some other brands, but many feel it's worth it given how well they clean. If strong scents aren't your thing or you like something more neutral, you might want to try a few options within the Cascade line. Overall, if you need something powerful to tackle dish stains, Cascade Platinum Plus is a solid choice. Just keep your scent preferences in mind, and you might want to test a couple of varieties to find what suits you best. Generally speaking, the cleaning performance tends to live up to expectations, making it a go-to for folks wanting easy and effective dishwashing.

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Does Cascade Platinum Plus leave a strong scent on dishes?

Hey there! Based on what we've found, Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs don't seem to leave a heavy scent on dishes. The manufacturer describes them as providing a neutral, fresh scent, so you shouldn't have to worry about any strong or unpleasant fragrance lingering on your dishes. Additionally, our research shows that folks generally like that there's no strong residual odor. The ActionPacs do their job of cleaning really well, leaving dishes sparkling without any overpowering scents clinging onto them. According to the manufacturer, the ActionPacs have a pleasant fragrance, but it's designed to be mild enough that it doesn't stick around too long. They dissolve completely during the wash cycle, leaving behind just a faint fresh scent, so it doesn’t mess with the taste or smell of your food. Most people find that these ActionPacs do a great job in getting rid of leftover smells from food. They seem to appreciate the grease-fighting power too, which ensures all traces from your meals are gone without leaving any weird smells behind. So overall, Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs should leave your dishes nice and clean with just a subtle, fresh scent. But hey, scent is pretty personal, so it might be worth trying them out yourself to see if they meet your own expectations.

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How does Cascade Platinum Plus compare to other Cascade detergents?

When it comes to comparing Cascade Platinum Plus with other Cascade detergents, it's really about what you're looking for—performance-wise and fragrance-wise. The Platinum Plus is well-regarded for its top-notch cleaning, especially in the [Mountain Scent](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmountain%2Bscent%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) variety, and that's largely due to the extra grease-fighting power from the [2X Dawn](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2X%2BDawn%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) formula, as per the manufacturer's description. From what we've gathered, it's praised for tackling tough stains like sticky peanut butter and baked-on eggs without the need for pre-washing. It's kind of a cleaning superstar in that sense. The fragrance, though, is where opinions start to diverge. Some folks love the fresh, clean smell that the Mountain Scent brings, making their kitchens smell great. But others find it a bit too strong, which can be a downside if you're sensitive to strong fragrances or prefer something more subtle. Interestingly, a professional review mentioned the scent as being fresh but not overpowering, which is kind of the opposite of what some people think. If you're not sold on the [Mountain Scent](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmountain%2Bscent%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), it might be worth checking out other scents within the Cascade Platinum Plus line. There's probably one out there that'll match your taste while still giving you the cleaning performance you're after. For those trying to decide between different Cascade detergents, it often comes down to what's more important to you: cleaning power or the fragrance. Cascade Platinum Plus is great at cleaning without needing to pre-rinse, which means saving time and water—something a lot of people appreciate. Ultimately, experimenting with a few different options could help you land on the perfect fit for your needs. If you don't mind a strong scent, the Platinum Plus might just be your new favorite dishwasher detergent, offering cleaned dishes without the hassle.

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Runner-up: Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs

Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs, Dishwasher Detergent, Lemon Essence, 62 Count

If you're looking for a fragrance-free and dye-free option, the Cascade Free & Clear ActionPacs are an excellent runner-up. They deliver impressive cleaning power while being gentle on sensitive skin and suitable for those with allergies. These ActionPacs effectively combat tough stains and help resist film and discoloration, leaving minimal residue behind. Although they are a bit more expensive, they are worth considering for the additional peace of mind they offer to sensitive users.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$19.94 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Amazon Basics Dishwasher Detergent Pacs

Amazon Basics Dishwasher Detergent Pacs, Fresh Scent, 85 Count (Previously Solimo)

For budget-conscious households, the Amazon Basics Dishwasher Detergent Pacs provide a compelling blend of cost-efficiency and cleaning performance. These pacs effectively clean everyday grime and help prevent film and discoloration. While they may not rival the top-tier brands like Cascade in sheer cleaning power, they are significantly more affordable per wash. This makes them an ideal choice for families looking to maintain a clean kitchen without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$14.52 at Amazon

Best Eco-Friendly Option: Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets

Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero, 25 Count, 17.6 Ounce

Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets are the go-to choice for eco-friendly consumers. Made from plant-based ingredients and packaged in recyclable materials, these tablets are phosphate-free and environmentally friendly. Even though they may leave a slight residue on some cups, their decent cleaning ability and sustainable credentials make them a solid pick for those who prioritize green living without sacrificing too much on cleaning efficiency.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$7.00 at Amazon

Best Gel Option: Cascade Gel with Dawn

For those who prefer the ease of gel detergents, Cascade Gel with Dawn is a reliable option. This gel is particularly effective against greasy dishes and tough residues, thanks to its phosphate-free formula and user-friendly dispenser. While it may not be as strong as Cascade's Platinum ActionPac Pods, it still offers a solid cleaning performance, making it a widely available and effective choice for anyone preferring gel over pods or tablets.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$14.55 at Amazon

Best Plant-Based Option: Method Dishwasher Packs

Method Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Lemon Mint, Dishwashing Rinse Aid to Lift Tough Grease and Stains, 54 Dishwasher Tabs per Package, (Pack of 2)

Method Dishwasher Packs shine for their commitment to natural, plant-based ingredients. These packs are remarkably effective, even on dishes with dried-on food left for up to 48 hours. While they come at a higher price point, their excellent cleaning quality coupled with eco-friendly claims make them a fantastic choice for those looking for a sustainable alternative without compromising on performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$35.98 at Amazon

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🥇 ShopSavvy Best Picks

Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.

Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.