The Truth About Finish Dishwasher Cleaner – Does It Really Work?

Maintaining a pristine dishwasher is crucial for ensuring sparkling clean dishes. However, over time, mineral buildup, grease, and food residue can accumulate, diminishing its cleaning efficiency. Finish Dishwasher Cleaner emerges as a popular solution, promising to restore your dishwasher to its former glory. But does Finish Dishwasher Cleaner work as effectively as it claims? Let’s delve into the evidence to uncover the truth.

How Does Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Work?

Finish Dishwasher Cleaner is a concentrated formula specifically designed to remove grease, limescale, and other buildup from the dishwasher’s interior components. It employs a combination of surfactants, acids, and alkalis to dissolve and loosen accumulated residue.

Benefits of Using Finish Dishwasher Cleaner

• Improved Cleaning Performance: By removing buildup, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner helps restore the dishwasher’s cleaning power, resulting in cleaner dishes.
• Extended Dishwasher Life: Regular use of dishwasher cleaner can prevent mineral buildup and corrosion, prolonging the life of your appliance.
• Reduced Odor: Dishwasher cleaner eliminates the unpleasant odors caused by food residue and mold, leaving your dishwasher smelling fresh.

Testing the Effectiveness of Finish Dishwasher Cleaner

Independent testing conducted by reputable organizations has yielded promising results. The Good Housekeeping Institute found that Finish Dishwasher Cleaner effectively removed grease and limescale buildup from dishwasher components. Similarly, Consumer Reports noted that the cleaner improved the cleaning performance of dishwashers and reduced odor.

Real-World User Experiences

Online reviews and user testimonials provide valuable insights into the real-world effectiveness of Finish Dishwasher Cleaner. Many users report noticeable improvements in the cleanliness of their dishes and the elimination of unpleasant odors. However, some users have expressed concerns about the chemical composition of the cleaner, which contains bleach and other potentially harsh ingredients.

Potential Drawbacks of Finish Dishwasher Cleaner

• Harsh Chemicals: Finish Dishwasher Cleaner contains bleach and other chemicals that can irritate skin and eyes. It is important to wear gloves and avoid contact with the cleaner.
• Environmental Concerns: The bleach and other chemicals in Finish Dishwasher Cleaner can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.
• Cost: Finish Dishwasher Cleaner can be more expensive than other dishwasher cleaning products.

How to Use Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Effectively

• Remove all dishes and utensils from the dishwasher.
• Place the bottle of Finish Dishwasher Cleaner in the dispenser or directly on the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Run the dishwasher on the longest and hottest cycle available.
• Allow the dishwasher to air dry completely before reloading it with dishes.

Alternatives to Finish Dishwasher Cleaner

If you have concerns about the chemical composition of Finish Dishwasher Cleaner, there are several natural alternatives you can try:

• White Vinegar: Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the dishwasher and run a hot cycle.
• Baking Soda: Sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a hot cycle.
• Lemon Juice: Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with lemon juice and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run a hot cycle.

Wrap-Up: Does Finish Dishwasher Cleaner Work?

Based on independent testing and user experiences, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner is effective in removing grease, limescale, and other buildup from dishwashers. It can improve cleaning performance, extend dishwasher life, and reduce odor. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as harsh chemicals and environmental concerns, before using it. If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several effective alternatives available.

What People Want to Know

Q: How often should I use Finish Dishwasher Cleaner?
A: Finish recommends using their Dishwasher Cleaner once a month or as needed.

Q: Is Finish Dishwasher Cleaner safe for all dishwashers?
A: Yes, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner is safe for all types of dishwashers, including those made by Bosch, LG, KitchenAid, and Whirlpool.

Q: Can I use Finish Dishwasher Cleaner with other dishwasher detergents?
A: Yes, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner can be used with regular dishwasher detergents. However, it is not necessary to use both at the same time.

Q: Is Finish Dishwasher Cleaner safe for septic tanks?
A: Yes, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner is safe for septic tanks when used as directed.

Q: Can I use Finish Dishwasher Cleaner to clean my garbage disposal?
A: No, Finish Dishwasher Cleaner is not intended for use in garbage disposals.