Certain automatic dishwasher detergents contain up to 8.7 percent of phosphates.
Sixteen states passed laws that took effect in 2010 to limit phosphates in dishwasher detergents. Oregon is one state that now requires homeowners to purchase low-phosphate formulated dishwasher detergents that contain no greater than 0.5 percent phosphates. Phosphates contaminate water resources and contribute to algae growth that depletes rivers and streams of oxygen aquatic life depend on. New advancements made in green cleaning supplies make detergents safer to use without diminishing their cleaning performance.
Finish Quantum
Consumer Reports (CR) recently tested 24 low-phosphate formulated dishwasher detergents and published their findings in their September 2010 report. Among those tested, it rates Finish Quantum as very good, the second highest of CR's five rating categories. Although the product contains chlorine bleach to remove food stains, product tests showed the ingredient provided little benefit in eliminating baked-on food soils. The detergent, however, scored excellent -- CR's highest rating -- for its overall ability to clean pots and pans. The product testing showed that Finish Quantum even surpassed more expensive detergents. It costs about 30 cents per load and is available at most grocery and household product retailers nationwide.
Finish Powerball Tabs
While all products manufactured under the same brand are not the same, Finish Powerball Tabs also made CR's best performing safe dishwasher detergent list. Its unusual technology includes a gel ball that works first to break up dried food while its cleaners eliminate food before a rinsing agent removes hard water spots and soap residue to leave dishes looking their best. It costs about 22 cents a load and is sold at most grocery stores and retailers that sell household cleaning products.
Cascade Complete All-in-1
Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs (gel packets) is a phosphate-free detergent safe for cleaning cookware and dishes. CR gave it a "very good" rating (second highest rating behind excellent) for its overall cleaning ability and value. The product requires no prerinsing and works well cleaning dishes, glassware and pots without leaving a residue, states Consumer Research. The only downsides are that it includes perfumes and dyes and is relatively pricey compared to other detergents, like Finish Powerball Tabs, costing about 28 cents per load. Find it at most grocery stores and retail stores that sell household cleaners.
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