10 Best Dishwasher Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Glisten Dishwasher Cleaner is a liquid cleaner designed to tackle common dishwasher issues such as limescale, rust, grease, and general buildup. It also helps in deodorizing your appliance with a pleasant lemon scent. One of its strengths is the powerful cleaning formula that is EPA Safer Choice Approved, ensuring it's safe for your dishwasher, plumbing, and septic systems.

The cleaner is very easy to use: simply place the bottle upside down in the silverware basket and run a hot cycle. The recommended usage is monthly or as needed, which makes maintenance straightforward and not overly frequent. Additionally, the product comes with a performance guarantee, indicating confidence in its effectiveness.

However, being mineral-based and liquid, it may not be as suitable for those who prefer powder or tablet forms of cleaners. Furthermore, while it’s effective in cleaning and deodorizing, users with highly sensitive noses might find the lemon scent a bit strong. The packaging in a 3-pack is convenient for regular users but might be excessive for those who clean their dishwashers less frequently. Given its performance and ease of use, this product is well-suited for anyone looking to maintain a clean and odor-free dishwasher without a lot of effort.

The Affresh W10549851 Dishwasher Cleaner comes in tablet form and is specifically designed to clean the internal components of all dishwasher models. This includes the tub, racks, pump and valve, drain, and recirculation hoses. It is particularly effective at removing limescale and mineral buildup, which can improve the performance and lifespan of your machine.

A notable advantage is that it is recommended by well-known brands like Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, and Amana, indicating trustworthiness and compatibility with major dishwasher brands. It is also septic safe and has a fresh citrus scent, which can leave your dishwasher smelling pleasant after use.

However, it's important to note that heavily soiled machines might require multiple cleaning cycles, which could be a bit cumbersome. Additionally, it needs to be used monthly or as needed, so it requires regular upkeep. While the tablets are easy to use and effective, people looking for a one-time solution might find the recurring use a bit inconvenient. This product is well-suited for anyone looking to maintain their dishwasher's health with a regular cleaning routine.

The Lemi Shine Dish Detergent Booster is a versatile cleaner designed to tackle hard water stains and enhance the cleaning power of your dishwasher. This product comes in a powder form and is packaged in a convenient 24 oz size, with two items included in a pack. The cleaner is mineral-based and features a refreshing lemon scent, contributing to a fresh-smelling kitchen environment.

One of its key strengths lies in its multi-use functionality, leveraging citric acid to effectively break down tough stains and mineral deposits, making it particularly useful for households dealing with hard water issues. Its ease of use stands out since it can be simply added to your regular dishwasher detergent.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the lemon scent is pleasant for many, it might be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances. Additionally, the powder form means it requires careful handling to avoid spills and ensure proper dosing. The frequency of use will depend on the level of hard water in your area and the severity of stains, which might necessitate more frequent use, potentially increasing the cost over time. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Lemi Shine Dish Detergent Booster is a solid choice for those struggling with hard water stains and looking to boost their dishwasher's performance.