How to Use Dish Soap in The Dishwasher

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Things You'll Need

  • Dish soap

  • Baking Soda

  • Salt

Everyone should have these products in their home.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

It is possible to use dishwashing soap in an automatic dishwasher; however, just using plain dish soap won't do! If you have been unfortunate enough to try this, you will agree that the giant mess of bubbles overflowing the kitchen is not worth the experiment. The next time you are out of dishwashing detergent, you can make your own using a few items that you will have around the house.

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Dishwashing Detergent Alternative

Step 1

Load the dishwasher the way you normally would.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

Place your dirty dishes, cups and glasses, into the dishwasher in the normal loading pattern.

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Step 2

Be careful -- only a couple of drops.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

Place two to three drops of regular dish soap in your dishwasher's detergent cup. You really only need a couple drops.

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Step 3

It's easier to use a measuring spoon.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of baking soda, filling the cup about 2/3 of the way to full.

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Step 4

Add the salt last.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

Fill the remaining space with regular table salt, about 1/2 tablespoon. Close the soap compartment.

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Step 5

Run a normal load of dishes, nothing special.
Image Credit: Debbie Williams

Run a regular cycle on the dishwasher and enjoy the clean dishes -- no hand-washing needed.

Tip

If you plan on using this recipe on a regular basis, mix 2/3 cup of baking soda and 1/3 cup of salt and store in an airtight container. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and 2 to 3 drops of liquid dish soap for each load of dishes.

You can also use white vinegar in place of a drying agent in the dishwasher.

Warning

Using homemade products may void the manufacturer's warranty.

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