Knowing the needs of our dishwasher is essential to get the most out of it. The washes effectiveness washes depend fundamentally on the combination of three essential “ingredients”: as if it were a pizza, the detergent would be the dough, and the salt and the rinse aid the tomato and the mozzarella; key elements to get a good result.
In the market, we find different formats of detergent, such as powder, solid tablets, or gel (liquid or in capsules). Although a priori may seem that the solid format is more economical and more effective, why is the demand for these products increasingly declining?
The maximum performance of solid dishwasher detergents is achieved through lengthy and high-temperature washing programs (which leads to higher energy and economic costs). However, this is the only way to ensure a correct dissolution of the detergent and to avoid finding undissolved product residues in the box. Besides, although solid dishwashers carry almost twice as many active ingredients as dishwashers in gel capsules, they incorporate oxidizing and alkaline ingredients in their composition, which are more aggressive against the dishes and lead, over time, to discoloration and premature deterioration.
On the other hand, gel dishwashing detergents offer maximum efficiency at low temperatures, are suitable for short washing programs and medium loads, and provide an excellent glossy finish for dishes, especially glassware and cutlery. At the same time, they are less aggressive with tableware, prolonging their shelf life. Also, with its practical format concentrated in capsules, it gains in comfort and ease of use, as they are placed directly in the dishwasher box, with the right dose and avoiding possible spills and direct contact with the product.
I’ve already chosen my detergent. Should I use salt and rinse aid during washing?
The answer to the question is: It depends. It depends on the hardness of the water in the area where you live.
The hardness of water can be measured by the concentration of minerals dissolved in the water, in particular, magnesium and calcium salts. This value can vary depending on the terrain through which the water circulates and, apart from modifying the taste of the water, it also influences the performance and maintenance of the different household appliances.
You can consult here the map of the hardness of the water in Spain:
Hard water contains a higher concentration of lime than soft water. The consequences of the accumulation of lime in the pipes of the dishwasher can be the origin of the appearance of white spots in the dishes, lower pressure of the water during the washes, or a direct failure of the appliance. To combat these negative effects of hard water in our dishwasher, use salt and polish.
Dishwasher salt works by counteracting the lime levels in the water, softening it. Thus, it helps to extend the life of the appliance because it prevents lime from becoming embedded inside and white spots from appearing on the crockery, cutlery, or glassware.
On the other hand, the rinse aid, in addition to giving a brighter finish, helps prevent residues from rinsing both detergent and food, speeds up the drying process, and prevents the appearance of watermarks.
For all this, we have designed the product FLOPP ECO ecological dishwashing in gel capsules, an ecological multifunctional concentrated detergent, suitable for short washing cycles and low temperatures, which besides caring for and protecting the dishes protects the environment.
It is a product certified with the European Ecolabel ECOLABEL (ES-CAT / 015/002), with a 100% biodegradable and compostable packaging, from renewable sources and that complies with the UNE-EN 14806 Standard. It is a product with a vegan certificate, issued by The Vegan Society.
Dishwasher maintenance, every two months
Apart from choosing the detergent well and accompanying it with salt and rinse aid, it should be kept in mind that the dishwasher requires regular maintenance every two months to prevent dirt and accumulated lime from damaging the appliance.
In this post, you will find our tips for taking care of your dishwasher and extending its useful life.
