Cost of Dishwasher Detergent

[m8547]

I was trying to figure out how much dishwasher detergent costs in various forms. Between tablets and powder and liquid it's hard to compare, so I'll share what I found.

I measured the amount of powder for a load in my dishwasher, and it took 2.5oz of Finish powder to fill it not quite all the way. Sometimes I accidentally overfill it a bit, so it could use more, maybe 3oz. How much to use depends on how hard your water is. A box contains 75oz of detergent and sells for $4 on Walmart.com. Store brand powdered detergent seems to sell for a bit over $3, though I haven't looked at prices in stores yet.

Costco has 155oz of powdered detergent (can't remember the brand) for $9.40, so that's not a great deal depending on how much a box costs in stores. They have a container of 115 Kirkland tablets for about $10, which is a good deal if they work well. They have brand name tablets for around $0.15 a load which may be worth it if they work significantly better than generic.

[Larabeth]

If you're feeling really badass, there's always options like this:
http://livingonthecheap.com/diy-homemade-dishwasher-detergent/

[kimmarg]

If you're feeling really badass, there's always options like this:
http://livingonthecheap.com/diy-homemade-dishwasher-detergent/

I tried the recommended recipie when I was out one night - worked pretty well!

Also why are you filling the compartment all the way up? I use less than half the compartment and get fine results. voila, it's 50% cheaper per load! Try less and see how it works.

[RetiredAt63]

Also why are you filling the compartment all the way up? I use less than half the compartment and get fine results. voila, it's 50% cheaper per load! Try less and see how it works.

Yes, there is usually a fill line.  Mine has the recommended amount of powder when it is barely half full.

[justajane]

I buy the Finish tabs at Costco when they are on sale. They work out to be 12 cents a piece on sale. I break them in half and use only half per load, so 6 cents per load. I have no problem with my dishes not being clean. They go on sale at Costco very frequently.

[2buttons]

Just switched from pricey cascade tabs to kirkland brand.  Will report back on effectiveness.

[rantk81]

I usually run my dishwasher about twice a week.  I buy bulk packages of the "Cascade Complete" tablets, as they work fantastic and have never disappointed me.  They cost a little bit more, but I've had bad experiences with generics before.  It is worthwhile for me to pay up for the good stuff, in this case :)

[2buttons]

Done a few washes with Kirkland brand premium tabs. Seems to be pretty solid.  Cant really tell a difference between them and cascade. 

[acroy]

Kroger generic brand works great, fill the cup about 1/2
Dishwasher gets a lot of use (8 people in the house) and runs daily