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9 Best Dishwasher Detergents for Hard Water (Reviews and Buying Guide 2021)

February 9, 2021 //  by Madeleine Gonzales Leave a Comment

The best dishwasher detergent for hard water not only cleans dishes efficiently but also helps to eliminate hard mineral deposits and white spots. Hard mineral deposits can manifest as white or dark stains (depending on the types of minerals in the water) on a variety of surfaces, including taps. Another way to determine if you have hard water is by the little hazy, white, chalky spots left on your dishes after washing.

If you have noticed these signs, switch to a good-quality dishwasher detergent. The transition will not only help keep your kitchen and dishes clean, but it can also help you save money. Hard water can lead to serious plumbing problems and other issues that can take a real toll on your budget. We have ranked and reviewed the 9 best dishwasher detergents for hard water to make your choice easier.

Contents

Best Dishwasher Detergent for Hard Water (Updated List)

Hard water is due to a high concentration of minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. These are absorbed by groundwater from the environment as it makes its way to your home. Hard water does not only leave marks, but it can also lead to serious problems. The deposits that build up over time can damage plumbing fixtures, appliances like dishwashers, and leave hard-to-clean spots on dishes and glass. Also, it renders regular dishwasher detergents less effective.

To get your dishes completely clean, you may have to switch to one of these best detergents for hard water. But before getting into the rankings, here are our top three choices:

Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Pods - All-in-One Powder & Gel...
Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fragrance...
Lemi Shine Dishwashing Detergent
Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs
Quantity
65 combo pacs
45 packs
Eco-friendly
Yes
Yes
Scent
Lemon
Lemon Mint, Pink Grapefruit, Fragrance-Free
Star rating
Where to buy
CHECK PRICE
CHECK PRICE
Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Pods - All-in-One Powder & Gel...
Lemi Shine Dishwashing Detergent
Quantity
65 combo pacs
Eco-friendly
Yes
Scent
Lemon
Star rating
Where to buy
CHECK PRICE
Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fragrance...
Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs
Quantity
45 packs
Eco-friendly
Yes
Scent
Lemon Mint, Pink Grapefruit, Fragrance-Free
Star rating
Where to buy
CHECK PRICE

9. Finish Quantum Infinity Shine

No products found.

  • Detergent form: Tabs
  • Package amount: 70 Loads; 2.5 lbs
  • Manufacturer: Finish
  • Eco-friendly: No
  • Scent: Unscented
Finish Quantum Infinity Shine

In short, we believe that the Finish Quantum Infinity Shine Tabs are a welcomed update on an already successful formula. More details are unnecessary, as Finish is already known as one of the top brands of dishwasher detergents. What you should note, however, is that the Quantum Infinity Shine Tabs also improve upon said formula’s hard water-fighting capabilities.

Pros
It has three separate fast-dissolving chambers. Each of these enacts a specific cleaning action.
The detergent has an impressive scrubbing power that breaks down and removes even the toughest stains. Food particles stuck to the surface of dishes disappear with a single wash.
Tub uses a special black dye that can be recycled. Just remember to remove the plastic sleeve beforehand.
It easily breaks down hardened foods stuck to the surface of plates. It efficiently acts even against multiple layers of hardened food.
The wrapper-free tab has a biodegradable film that dissipates in water.
Cons
Some clients found the scent left by the detergent overwhelming at times.
A few reports came in about tarnished copper bottom pots due to this detergent.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

If you want qualitative protection against hard water, then the Finish Quantum Infinity Shine tablets might be just what you need. The money spent on the product is well worth it, as long as you do not mind the fact that it does not contain the most eco-friendly ingredients.


8. Cascade Platinum Plus Dishwasher Pods

Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods, ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent...
75,011 Reviews
Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods, ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent...
  • Cascade cleaning power allows you to skip pre-washing dishes, saving up to 15 gallons of water with each load
  • ActionPacs are formulated with the grease-fighting power of Dawn dish soap. Formulated with POWER BOOSTER.
  • Cascade Platinum PLUS+ ActionPacs dishwashing detergent dissolve, lift, and rinse away food.
CHECK PRICE
  • Detergent form: Pods
  • Package amount: 70 Loads; 2.8 lbs
  • Manufacturer: Cascade
  • Eco-friendly: No
  • Scent: Lemon
Cascade Platinum Plus Dishwasher Pods

Although this is not the most eco-friendly, or the cheapest option on the market, the Cascade Platinum Pacs do present a set of appealing advantages. The most noteworthy is its strong cleaning power. You will particularly notice this on glass, as these will be shinier than ever. Also, due to its efficiency and three-chamber system, it will save you water on each load.

Overall, we think that the Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pacs has a good quality for money ratio. Also, it has a strong hard water-resisting action when compared to eco-friendly, rinse-aid-oriented alternatives. The product is truly impressive and it is worth giving it a spin.

Pros
It leaves glasses and glass dishes with an impeccable shine.
There are three separate chambers in each pod. These have a powerful scrubbing action. You will no longer have to pre-rinse, pre-scrub, or pre-soak when using this detergent.
Being one of the most recognizable dishwasher detergent brands, you can count on the product’s quality.
The convenient packaging makes it easy to load it up in the dishwasher.
It helps you save water on each load.
Cons
It is not the most environmentally friendly option available on the market.
The smell is not noticeable most of the time.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

Although it is not our top pick, the Cascade Platinum Plus Pacs handle hard water surprisingly well, considering that it was not specifically made for this type of action. We think that the product is well worth the money, given the results it delivers: amazing shine, tremendous cleaning power, and aid in saving water.


7. Grab Green Natural Automatic Dishwashing Detergent

No products found.

  • Detergent form: Powder
  • Package amount: 80 Loads; 3.17 lbs
  • Manufacturer: Grab Green
  • Eco-friendly: Yes
  • Scent: Fragrance-Free or Grapefruit with Cranberry
Grab Green Natural Automatic Dishwashing Detergent for hard water

Grab Green Organic Enzymed-Powdered Detergent is one of the best automatic dishwasher detergents available. This phosphate and chlorine-free solution delivers excellent results for washing dishes in hard water. The best thing about it is the scoop that accompanies the product. This allows you to measure how much powder you need depending on the load size. Therefore you can easily determine the ideal amount of detergent to use for each load.

Another thing that you might like about the Grab Green Detergent is that it comes in two different fragrance versions:

  • fragrance-free
  • grapefruit with cranberry
Pros
The product does not contain phosphates, phthalates, chlorine, animal by-products, toxins, dyes, or masking agents.
Since it’s a powder, you can choose the adequate quantity for each load size.
It is available both in a fragrance-free version, as well as a fragranced one.
There is a convenient scoop inside the package to make measuring easier.
It is affordable, considering the number of full loads you can wash for this price.
Cons
The seal on the bag is not waterproof, nor air-tight.
TThe fragranced version can be a little too strong for some people’s liking./div>
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The toxin-free Grab Green Natural Automatic Dishwashing Detergent offers a convenient way to clean dishes in hard water. However, what truly won us over was the practical scoop that comes in the packaging. This allows you to measure how much powder you need, depending on the size of each load. The product makes dishwashing as easy as it can be without becoming wasteful.


6. Puracy Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pods

No products found.

  • Detergent form: Pods
  • Package amount: 50 count
  • Manufacturer: Puracy
  • Eco-friendly: Yes
  • Scent: Fragrance-free
Puracy Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pods

One of the best detergents to look for when dealing with hard water is the Puracy Platinum Pods. The product is made from a completely natural formula based on plants and organic enzymes. One of the main benefits aside from its effectiveness against hard water is that it allows you to skip pre-soaking dishes.

As an all-in-one pod, just one dose of the Puracy Platinum Detergent is enough to wash a full load thoroughly, even on dishwashers with 16 place settings. Plus, its natural formula makes it completely safe for all types of dishes, from ceramic or glass to crystal and porcelain.

Pros
Advanced plant-derived enzymes quickly target and break down stubborn foods.
It contains no Cocamidopropyl betaine, sulfates, bleach, perfume, or other toxic chemicals.
If you are not pleased with the product, the company offers full refunds, no questions asked. Therefore, you have nothing to by trying the detergent.
It was developed by doctors and chemists who believe in the power of natural enzymes.
The detergent offers great value for a relatively low price.
Cons
Depending on water hardness levels, you might see soap suds build-up at the bottom of the dishwasher.
On occasion, it might fail to effectively fight against heavy grease.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The Puracy Platinum Dishwasher Detergent Pods are highly effective against hard water using only natural ingredients. We recommend it for anyone who is allergic to certain chemicals, such as phosphates. This is a product that anyone who is eco-friendly must try.


5. Amaze! Premium All-in-One Dishwasher Tablets

No products found.

  • Detergent form: Tablets
  • Package amount: 32 tabs
  • Manufacturer: Cleanfinity
  • Eco-friendly: Somewhat
  • Scent: Fresh scent
Amaze! Premium All-in-One Dishwasher Tablets

Coming from the Amaze! brand these hard water detergent tablets for dishwashers have a biodegradable enclosure that dissolves in water. The product was designed as an eco-friendly alternative to help deal with mineral deposits.

The Amaze! Premium All-in-One Dishwasher Tablets promise to eliminate the need for a rinse-aid agent, significantly reducing costs over time. The price tag is another incentive to try it out.

Furthermore, the manufacturer promises that the tablets reduce the need for detergent boosters, dishwashers salts, and even machine cleaners. Thus, you can reduce your spendings on cleaning products and simplify the process.

Pros
It has a built-in rinse aid.
The product contains powerful enzymes for a high washing efficiency.
It cleans limescale and prevents it from building up again in the future.
The wrapping easily dissolves in water.
The tablets are cost-effective and even reduce the need for other dishwasher products.
Cons
Depending on how hard the food stains are, sometimes the dishes will need a second wash.
It might cause more lather than expected in certain scenarios, such as at different rinse cycles.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The Amaze! Premium All-in-One Dishwasher Tablets are an amazing deal. They were designed for people who want to save as much money as possible. Although it comes at an affordable price, it does not compromise quality.

In the end, the pros far outweigh the cons. Even though they are not the most eco-friendly option, they are still more earth-friendly than other products we’ve seen on the market.


4. Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent With Phosphate

Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent with Phosphate. The Best...
291 Reviews
Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent with Phosphate. The Best...
  • Proudly Handcrafted in Small Batches in the USA
  • Now Free of Perfumes, Clear of Dyes
  • Eliminates limescale buildup, white film
CHECK PRICE
  • Detergent form: Powder
  • Package amount: 60 ounces
  • Manufacturer: Bandito Products, LLC
  • Eco-friendly: No
  • Scent: Fresh Scent
Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent with Phosphate

Bubble Bandit brings you one of the best dishwasher detergents for hard water that you can get right now. It has everything you might need and then more. The Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent with Phosphate has the strength of a commercial cleaner that includes the maximum amount of powerful natural phosphates allowed.

Also, bubble bandit has eliminated all of the fillers that traditional soaps use to increase weight. This gives you a very concentrated powder that is effective with using only 2 to 3 tablespoons. Therefore, the product is likely to last you for a very long time.

The formula will not only clean your dishes but your dishwasher as well and protect it from buildup. Due to its incredible cleaning power, we recommend that you run the washer a few times empty with only the soap to get your machine clean and to keep deposits from getting on your dishes during the first few cycles.

Pros
The product has the strength of commercial soap but under a formula that is safe to use at home.
It is a great option for older washers and homes with very hard water.
The detergent is made in the USA, so with each purchase you support the country’s economy.
The product is perfume and dye free.
It effectively gets rid of limescale buildup.
It eliminates haze and spots on dishes.
The detergent is septic safe.
You can get up to 60 loads from each bag.
Cons
Unfortunately, it is not environmentally friendly.
17 States do not allow soaps containing phosphates. Therefore, be sure to check your state regulations before your purchase.
It has a higher price than traditional soaps you can buy in the store.
It requires a break in period because the dishwasher soap will clean out deposits in your machine. Thus, for the first few cycles, your dishes may come out without being cleaned properly.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The Bubble Bandit Dishwasher Detergent, although powerful against hard water, contains a high amount of phosphate. This is one of the main cons that people have against the product.

However, we still recommend it for the simple fact that it is highly efficient against hard water. It is particularly useful if your water has a very high concentration of minerals. Still, if you only have a mild problem with hard water, you could try softer products at first. Also, if you are hesitant due to the high phosphate level, you might be more interested in some of the best non-toxic dishwasher detergents.


3. Finish Quantum Max Powerball

No products found.

  • Detergent form: Liquid detergent pods
  • Package amount: 64 Tabs
  • Manufacturer: Finish
  • Eco-friendly: No
  • Scent: None
finish quantum best dishwasher detergent for hard water

Finish has been a leading name in cleaners for many years now. Many people have come to trust them as the best dishwasher detergent for hard water. Even if their customer base has been continually expanding, there is no sign of it slowing down.

The Finish Quantum Max Detergent Tablet has three compartments that can handle even the greasiest jobs. These tabs give your dishwasher more oomph to get plates and utensils clean the first time around. Therefore, there will be no need for a second or third wash to get spotless dishes. It is no wonder this product is highly recommended.

Furthermore, the Finish Quantum Max Powerball removes film, tough spots, and gives dishes a nice, clean shine. The manufacturer promises that these capsules can even dissolve food spots that have stayed on the dishes for 24 hours. However, if you doubt such claims, feel free to try it out. You will not be disappointed by the result.

Pros
The solution is fast dissolving.
The glass protect additive helps eliminate corrosion.
It effectively cleans food stuck to plates and grease. The detergent washes your dishes clean the first time around, there is no need to pre-rinse or to wash again.
The soap mixed with bleach takes care of even the toughest stains.
It reaches an economical price point.
It has a machine cleaning counterpart that you can purchase to keep limescale buildup from clogging your washer.
Cons
The product is not environmentally friendly.
The tabs are not individually wrapped. Thus, any moisture within the container can cause the pods to break and leak.
If you use the detergent with very hard water, you may still need to use a rinsing additive.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The Finish Quantum Max Powerball is a highly reliable dishwasher detergent for hard water. The advanced cleaning formula will take on any stain regardless of how stubborn it is. Because of its concentrated formula, its effectiveness shines through even when used on cheap dishwashers. Therefore, this goes to show just how effective this relatively affordable dishwasher detergent is.

Still, if you are dealing with very hard water, you might need additional products for optimal results. Also, bear in mind that this is not an eco-friendly detergent. If protecting the environment is an important topic for you, consider the eco-friendly detergents from our list.


2. Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs

Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fragrance...
153 Reviews
Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fragrance...
  • Contains (1) resealable pouch with 45 individual packs of dishwasher soap inside
  • Naturally derived dishwasher detergent packs
  • Each detergent power pack dissolves fast, unleashing triple action cleaning power
CHECK PRICE
  • Detergent form: Powder tabs
  • Package amount: 45 Packs
  • Manufacturer: Method
  • Eco-friendly: Yes
  • Scent: Lemon Mint, Pink Grapefruit, Fragrance-Free
method smarty dish plus best dishwasher detergent for hard water

Method has dedicated its efforts to creating detergents based on natural products which are good for the environment. They did just that with the Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, which takes a spot as the best phosphate-free dishwasher detergent for hard water.

The Method dishwasher tabs for hard water bring triple cleaning power at a moderate price. They dissolve sticky foods, double as a rinse aid, and, of course, get rid of those fuzzy white spots from your dishes. Furthermore, this product incorporates top quality and sustainability at a budget-friendly price. Therefore, everyone can adopt more eco-friendly cleaning products and methods.

Pros
These are fast dissolving tabs.
The solution has mineral based composition.
It cleans stuck on food, grease, and washes clear without the need for additives or bleach.
The product is perfume and dye free.
It is environmentally friendly. The detergent is biodegradable and phosphate free.
The manufacturers do not test the product on animals.
It works very well in hard water.
There is a fragrance-free option available.
Cons
The product is more expensive than many other soaps.
Larger tabs may not fit into compact soap compartments.
It tends to leave a haze on plastic utensils. We advise you to avoid cleaning plastic items with it.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

Thanks to its mineral-based technology, the Method Smarty Dish Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs are great for hard water. Also, if you want an even better reason to use these packs, Method’s products have never been tested on animals. We love cruelty-free products that do their job as advertised.


1. Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Detergent Pods

Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Pods - All-in-One Powder & Gel...
925 Reviews
Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Pods - All-in-One Powder & Gel...
CHECK PRICE
  • Detergent form: Dual chamber powder/ gel combo packs
  • Package amount: 65 Packs
  • Manufacturer: Lemi Shine
  • Eco-friendly: Yes
  • Scent: Lemon
lemi shine best dishwasher detergent for hard water

Although Lemi Shine may not be as well-known as other brands such as Cascade, it works wonders. Those who have discovered this brand swear by it as the best dishwasher detergent for hard water and will not go back to regular soaps and products.

Though slightly more expensive, this product takes care of it all, stains, grease, stuck-on food, and a cleanser to get a high shine. Furthermore, the Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Detergent Pods are powered by natural citric acid, making them completely safe for the environment.

Pros
The formula is safe for the environment because the product uses natural citric extracts.
It is free of toxins and chemicals.
The detergent is extremely effective. It washes away even stuck on food, grease, and washes clear.
It is easy to use and has a clean crisp scent.
It removes all stains, no matter how stubborn these are.
The product works better than regular soap in hard water.
It eliminates the need for additives.
Cons
The detergent is more expensive than the run of the mill soaps.
Some people may not like the citrus smell, but this is a matter of personal taste.
Read User Reviews

Verdict

Lemi Shine’s dishwasher detergent pods for hard water are an excellent choice for anyone. It can even be considered one of the best natural dishwasher detergents. Unlike detergents that come in powder form, these packs are easy to use and cause absolutely no mess. However, the main advantage is that this detergent is also natural and leaves zero toxic residues.

In the end, we decided to top our list with this product also because it belongs to a lesser-known brand. We are excited to spread the word whenever we find a great product out there!


Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dishwasher detergent for hard water can help you get your dishes properly cleaned. You will most certainly find a product to your liking on this list. Be it eco-friendly, non-toxic, or not, all of the options mentioned above offer a straightforward and practical solution to dealing with mineral deposits and limescale buildup.

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