#10 Best Dishwasher Cleaners for Hard Water 2023

Hard water can make the dishes have spots, chalky, and cloudy effects. Below you can find the best dishwasher cleaners for hard water that can clean the residue and leave the dishes spotless!

👤 Written by: P.N. Hidayah
⏳ Updated on:
📋 List: 10 items
👀 Reader: 39 views

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Have you found your glasses are cloudy and your plates are chalky? The hard water can cause this with a  high mineral content that leaves residues on the surface and appliances. To resolve this problem, you need certain dishwasher detergents that work well for hard water. In addition, hard water dishwasher cleaners can break down the deposits and soften the water.

Thus to narrow down your choices, we have uncovered the best dishwasher cleaners for hard water. You can check our list below and find products that suit your preference and budget!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Why does hard water needs a certain dishwasher cleaner?

The hard water build-up can affect the dishwasher result. A detergent designed specifically for hard water can help break down the hard water so the plates and glass can leave shiny and clean. In addition, it can prevent a cloudy and chalky finish. Moreover, not all detergent has the same ingredient that can reduce the hard water effect. Thus, it’s essential to consider a dishwasher cleaner with hard water ingredients.

How much hard water dishwasher cleaner should I use to get the best result?

To get the best result, you need to consider finding the best dishwasher cleaners for hard water with many ingredients to reduce the hard water effect. Moreover, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. But if you think it’s not clean enough, you can adjust the amount. Furthermore, you should note that soft water may need less detergent than hard water.

Is it reasonable to put too much detergent?

Indeed hard water needs more detergent than soft water, but if you put it too much, it will not be suitable for your dishwasher. It can cause residue on dishes, excess suds, and buildup in the dishwasher. And this can lower the performance, so it’s essential to find the right amount of detergent.

What factor should I consider in hard water dishwasher cleaner?

  • Type
    Hard water dishwasher cleaner is available in various types, including gel, powders, and tablets. A gel is the most eco-friendly type, but sometimes it lacks effectiveness. The second one is powder, and this type is the most effective and powerful cleaning effect since it combines bleaching and enzymatic ingredients. Last, the tablets offer a convenient and powerful impact since they have a premeasured design.
  • Ingredients
    Hard water can leave residue in the dishes that make them chalky and cloudy, so you need to find a detergent that contains citric acid, sodium-based ingredients, and a variety of enzymes. These ingredients can soften the hard water and break down the water residue.
  • Scent
    Dishwasher detergent offers scents derived from chemical and natural scents like any other cleaning product. Some detergents can leave a fresh fragrance, and some provide an unscented option.
*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
Dishwasher Cleaner Affresh
Affresh
Dishwasher Cleaner
#1 Amazon Affresh.com eBay
Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner Finish
Finish
Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner
#2 Amazon Finishdishwashing.com eBay
Hard Water Booster Powder Finish
Finish
Hard Water Booster Powder
#3 Amazon Finishdishwashing.com eBay
Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero Ecover
Ecover
Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero
#4 Amazon Ecoverdirect.com eBay
Quantum 68ct Dishwasher Detergent Finish
Finish
Quantum 68ct Dishwasher Detergent
#5 Amazon Walmart.com eBay
Natural Dishwasher Cleaner Lemi Shine
Lemi Shine
Natural Dishwasher Cleaner
#6 Amazon Lemishine.com eBay
High Efficiency Natural Dishwasher Cleaner XROM
XROM
High Efficiency Natural Dishwasher Cleaner
#7 Amazon Walmart.com eBay
Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder Grab Green
Grab Green
Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder
#8 Amazon Grabgreenhome.com eBay
Ready Clean Probiotic Dishwasher Cleaner Frigidaire
Frigidaire
Ready Clean Probiotic Dishwasher Cleaner
#9 Amazon Frigidaire.com eBay
Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets ACTIVE
ACTIVE
Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets
#10 Amazon Activedetergent.com eBay

10 List of Best Dishwasher Cleaners for Hard Water

  • Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
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    with this product?
    #1

    Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner

    The best-selling dishwasher cleaner for hard water

    1  readers vote
    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you have struggled with the build-up of mineral, detergent, and lime scale, this Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is perfect for you. It’s easy to use, and you can use as monthly to maintain the dishwasher performance. Moreover, this Septic Tank Safe and certified by the EPA Safer Choice program. Furthermore, it can clean any spots in a dishwasher, whether it is film or streaks. However, this one of the best dishwasher cleaners for hard water needs to be used repeatedly for maximal results if the dishwasher build-up is severe the first time.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Best for mineral build-up
    Monthly usage
    Easy to use
    Septic Tank Safe

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Need to be used repeatedly

    What other experts liked

    The Affresh is definitely more effective, especially if it’s been a while since your dishwasher was last cleaned.
    The Kitchn

    What other experts didn't like

    Have to use it again after several cycles.
    Andrea
  • Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner
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    with this product?
    #2

    Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner

    The best gel dishwasher cleaner with a fresh scent

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Finish Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner is a gel dishwasher cleaner that you can purchase at an affordable price. You can use it monthly, and it works well with hard water. Moreover, it can get rid of mineral build-up, grime, and grease for better performance. It will leave a fresh scent that may be pretty strong if you prefer an unscented cleaner. However, you can run it twice to get rid of the smell.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Monthly
    Affordable
    Work well for mineral build-up
    Safe for septic tank

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Strong smell

    What other experts liked

    The inside of the dishwasher is still bright and shiny, with no grease or salt/mineral buildup.
    Matt J.

    What other experts didn't like

    The odor of the dishwasher is very strong. It requires running two or more cycles to remove the strong smell.
    Kitchen Geek
  • Finish Hard Water Booster Powder
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    with this product?
    #3

    Finish Hard Water Booster Powder

    The best dishwasher cleaner to boost the current detergent

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you like your current detergent but want to manage the hard water build-up, this Finish Hard Water Booster Powder can be your go-to. Since it is a booster, you can use your current detergent to make it work efficiently and effectively. It can remove the filmy deposit, limescale build-up, and water spots. Moreover, it can enhance the stain-removing power, such as stains because of tea or coffee. Overall, this hard water dishwasher cleaner is worth purchasing for you who love your current detergent.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Remove water spots and filmy residue
    Limescale buildup
    Boosts stain-removing power
    It can be used with the current cleaners

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Need to be used for a regular dishwashing

    What other experts liked

    Not only is the water used here in Florida HORRIBLE, but my dishwasher is so outdated I’m surprised it manages to clean at all.
    Tree Gallagher

    What other experts didn't like

    Works great on flatware. Not so much on glassware.
    Joe Ammons
  • Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero
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    with this product?
    #4

    Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero

    The best eco-friendly dishwasher cleaner for hard water

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero is an eco-friendly option that you can purchase at a reasonable price. Moreover, it can spotlessly clean all residue without using a harmless material for the earth. It uses sodium carbonate and enzymes to clean hard-to-clean food waste and hard water. The no fragrance, dyes, or chlorine ingredients is the perfect option for every environment conscious.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    No fragrance, dyes, or chlorines
    Easy to use
    Eco-friendly formula
    Biodegradable and phosphate-free

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Each tablet wrapped in plastic

    What other experts liked

    Ecover Zero Automatic Dishwasher Tablets offer an impressive balance between its many eco-friendly benefits and effective cleaning power.
    Today's Parent

    What other experts didn't like

    Each tablet is wrapped in plastic. What a waste of resources.
    Minerva
  • Finish Quantum 68ct Dishwasher Detergent
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    with this product?
    #5

    Finish Quantum 68ct Dishwasher Detergent

    The best dishwasher cleaner with triple action formula

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Finish Quantum 68ct Dishwasher Detergent is a dishwasher detergent where you can get triple action formulas of gel, powder, and liquid type in each pack. So, it will provide an overall cleaning performance that can ensure that it can clean the residue, cut through grease, and shine result. Moreover, this detergent’s sodium carbonate and sodium citrate can soften the hard water and provide a deep clean performance.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Triple-action formula
    Contain gel, a powder, and a liquid
    Can soften the hard water
    Deep clean performance

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Strong smell

    What other experts liked

    It really made a difference! Dishes came out cleaner and without any residue that I would sometimes get, especially on my plastic food storage containers.
    Shanna Banana

    What other experts didn't like

    The smell is horrible when you open the pouch.
  • Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #6

    Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner

    The best dishwasher cleaner for softening the hard water

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Lemi Shine Natural Dishwasher Cleaner is a cleaner that is biodegradable and safe to use. Moreover, it contains citric acid to soften the hard water naturally and can get rid of lime staining. Therefore, it is safe to use for the environment. In addition, you can use it once a month to enhance the dishwasher’s performance. Overall, this hard water dishwasher cleaner can be a good option if you want safe and clean performance.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Removes hard water stains and spots
    Citric acid formula
    Biodegradable and safe

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Left a deposition in their dishwasher

    What other experts liked

    Easy to use. Left my old dishwasher smelling clean and looking sparkly.
    JoKing one

    What other experts didn't like

    The inside of my dishwasher is stainless steel and this product did not leave it sparkling clean.
    Sharon L. Marks
  • XROM High Efficiency Natural Dishwasher Cleaner
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #7

    XROM High Efficiency Natural Dishwasher Cleaner

    The best dishwasher cleaner with odorless formula

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    XROM High-Efficiency Natural Dishwasher Cleaner uses natural ingredients to eliminate grease and grime. Moreover, remove removes the hard water and limescale buildup. This biodegradable dishwasher cleaner claim that it can freshen up the dishwasher smell. However, some people find it can help the odor but do not eliminate it.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Can remove the build-up
    Easy to use
    Using natural ingredients
    Odorless and biodegradable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Do not eliminate the odor

    What other experts liked

    Cleaned our dishwasher very nicely! No more cloudy residue after a wash.
    D. Lael

    What other experts didn't like

    It helped a little but did not eradicate the odors.
  • Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #8

    Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder

    The best dishwasher cleaner with a fragrance-free option

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Powder is an eco-friendly powder that uses plant- and mineral-based ingredients. This hard water dishwasher cleaner contains sodium carbonate and enzymes to eliminate grease and food waste. It is also free of harmful chemicals and has a pleasant smell of Grapefruit Cranberry, but it will leave fragrant on your dishes. However, if you prefer an odorless one, it offers a fragrance-free option.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Plant- and mineral-based ingredients
    Free of harmful chemicals
    Eco-friendly
    Grapefruit cranberry and fragrance-free option

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    The dishes take the smells

    What other experts liked

    It is so nice and natural, less fragranced than traditional dishwasher powders.

    What other experts didn't like

    Smells good in the package but the dishes and dishwasher also take on the smell.
  • Frigidaire Ready Clean Probiotic Dishwasher Cleaner
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #9

    Frigidaire Ready Clean Probiotic Dishwasher Cleaner

    The best dishwasher cleaner with odor eliminator function

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Frigidaire Ready Clean Probiotic Dishwasher Cleaner has a deep scaling formula to eliminate hard water, grime, lime scale, grease, stain, and many more. It’s easy to use, and you can use it for monthly maintenance. Unlike other dishwasher cleaners, you need to rest it overnight. However, it’s a good option if you are looking for a detergent that is compatible with any dishwasher and enhances the odor eliminator function.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Deep descaling formula
    Monthly usage
    Compatible with any dishwasher
    Odor eliminator

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Need to stay empty overnight

    What other experts liked

    Now glasses and other items come out sparkling!

    What other experts didn't like

    So you are supposed to pour it into the dishwasher and let it sit for hours.
  • ACTIVE Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #10

    ACTIVE Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets

    The best dishwasher cleaner with non-toxic ingredients

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    ACTIVE Dishwasher Cleaner And Deodorizer Tablets is a 12-month supply dishwasher cleaner that comes in 24 packs. It has natural and non-toxic ingredients that remove the residue and eliminate the odor. Moreover, it is safe for septic tanks that suit both hard and soft water. This hard water dishwasher cleaner will provide a clean, unclogged, and clear dishwasher.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    12-month supplies
    Odor eliminator formula
    Safe for all septic tanks
    Natural ingredients

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Less effective performance

    What other experts liked

    My dishwasher came out beautiful and smells amazing.
    Barbara Goff

    What other experts didn't like

    I didn’t find this product to be that great.

Conclusion: Best Dishwasher Cleaners for Hard Water

Above is our list of the best dishwasher cleaners for hard water that we especially choose to help you find the best one. It’s essential to compare each product’s ingredients and review them before purchasing to see which will work the best for you. We have picked the best one that works well for hard water build-up, so your dishwasher performs well.

In addition, if you are looking for an affordable dishwasher, check into the best portable dishwashers for the money for an affordable, sleek, and portable design dishwasher that is good for a small space house.

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