Cloudy glasses, pans still greasy, and foam leaking through the door — all of these may be signs that you are using the wrong dishwasher product.
Many people still rely on sink soap or any type of detergent — but this compromises washing efficiency, damages the machine, and reduces its lifespan.
In this guide, learn the difference between detergent and dishwasher soap, which one to choose, and why this product needs to be high-quality and specifically designed for dishwasher cleaning.
We also explain when rinse aid is essential — and why homemade solutions are not a good idea and can even damage the appliance.
What are dishwasher products — and how do they work?
Products for dishwashers are specific formulas created to work at high temperatures and with the automated cycle of the machines.
They act without the need for scrubbing, ensuring efficient removal of grease, starch, and food residues — and without generating excess foam.
They include four main categories:
1. Dishwasher detergent:
Responsible for loosening and dissolving dirt. It can be in gel, tablet, or powder form.
2. Rinse aid (or drying liquid):
Speeds up drying and prevents spots, especially on glasses and stainless-steel cutlery.
3. Dishwasher machine cleaner:
Removes accumulated grease and invisible residues, keeping the equipment working properly.
4. Dishwasher deodorizers
Designed to further enhance cleaning, specialized products such as JIMO Essence Limão eliminate bad odors and can last up to 60 washes.
What is the difference between dishwasher detergent and dishwasher soap? Are they the same?
Although many people use the terms as synonyms, dishwasher soap and dishwasher detergent have important differences — and more than that, they must be specifically made for machine use.
- Regular (sink) soap: not suitable. It produces too much foam, does not work well with hot water, and can cause clogs and damage to the machine. Even traditional powdered soap should be avoided.
- Dishwasher detergent: this is the correct product. It contains alkaline agents, enzymes, and sequestrants that break down grease and food residues, working at high temperatures without producing excess foam.
Leonardo Linck explains:
Traditional sink soap is not suitable for dishwashers. It is made to create foam, and that disrupts the machine’s operation. Specific detergent, however, is more alkaline, does not foam, and works with high temperature and water pressure. They are completely different products.
Using sink soap is not recommended. The ideal choice is always proper dishwasher detergents, such as concentrated gel or multi-layer tablets, which deliver superior performance without harming the appliance.
What happens if you use regular soap in the dishwasher?
Although it may seem like a simple alternative, regular soap or sink detergent should never be used in a dishwasher.
These products generate excess foam that can overflow and damage the appliance, as pointed out by Leonardo Linck:
If you put sink soap in the dishwasher, there will be too much foam, and the machine is not designed for that. It can cause overflow, cycle errors, and even damage internal parts. And the dishes won’t be properly cleaned.
Additionally, they do not have the proper formulation to remove grease and residues under high temperature and pressure.
Problems caused by regular soap in the dishwasher:
- Foam buildup and clogging of spray arms;
- Residues on utensils and the machine walls;
- Internal damage caused by corrosion and excessive moisture;
- Bad odor due to undissolved soap buildup.
Can you use regular powdered soap in the dishwasher?
No. This type of product is made for laundry — and is not compatible with the dishwasher’s operation.
Using powdered soap can cause the same damage as regular soap, with an increased risk of clogging filters and internal ducts due to its higher concentration.
What is the best dishwasher product and how to choose?
Choosing the ideal dishwasher detergent depends on factors such as dirt level, machine usage frequency, and the desired level of convenience.
Each format has its advantages, and understanding these differences is essential to ensure maximum efficiency and avoid problems like spots, excess foam, or residue buildup.
To help you choose, we explain the main types of products and their formulations.
We also present the solutions from the JIMO Dishwasher line, which take care of every step of the washing process. Leonardo Linck, chemist and JIMO’s Technical R&D Director, comments:
The JIMO Dishwasher line was designed to deliver practicality without sacrificing performance. It was one of the brand’s first categories of household products, and since then, we have evolved significantly in formulation and formats. Today, we offer solutions ranging from concentrated gel, which makes dosing easier, to multi-layer tablets that combine detergent, rinse aid, and enzymes in a single product. This practicality attracts consumers who want professional results without effort.
Check it out and optimize your household routine!
Gel detergent
One of the most practical versions for everyday use. With a fluid texture and high solubility, dishwasher gel detergent is easy to dose and works well for light to moderate dirt.
Because it dissolves quickly, it avoids residue buildup and works well even in short cycles. It is ideal for those seeking efficiency, yield, and dosing control.
JIMO Lava-Louça Gel:
JIMO’s gel detergent is ideal for daily use. Its concentrated formula lasts longer, dissolves quickly, and works even in short cycles.
It is the right choice for those seeking efficiency and savings without compromising performance. Great for light to moderate dirt.
Multi-layer tablet
The multi-layer dishwasher tablet combines different functions in one product: detergent, degreasing enzymes, and rinse aid.
Each layer acts at a different stage of the wash cycle — promoting deep cleaning, grease removal, and shine on utensils.
It is the best choice for larger loads or heavily soiled dishes, offering total convenience (no need for manual dosing).
JIMO Lava-Louça Pastilha Multicamadas
Perfect for more intensive washes. The multi-layer technology delivers combined action: detergent and degreasing in a single product. Ensures complete residue removal, visible shine, and maximum convenience — with no manual dosing needed.
Powder detergent
Although less used today, it can still be effective — as long as used carefully. It requires attention to dosing, since excess may leave residual foam and particles on utensils.
It can perform well in long or intensive cycles, but is not recommended for quick washes.
Rinse aid (liquid)
An essential complementary product, especially when washing glasses, stemware, and stainless-steel items. Dishwasher rinse aid speeds up drying, prevents water marks, and enhances the final shine of various materials.
It must be placed in the machine’s specific compartment and used regularly for best results.
JIMO Secante Abrilhantador
Prevents drying stains and water marks, especially on glasses, stemware, and stainless-steel utensils.
It should be used regularly, especially in glass-heavy cycles or when the machine uses natural or vented drying. It significantly improves the final finish of the dishes.
Dishwasher cleaning tablet
Even if the machine looks clean, grease and soap residues accumulate over time in internal parts such as filters, spray arms, and piping.
The dishwasher cleaning tablet was developed to eliminate these residues in a practical and effective way, without damaging the appliance.
Regular use helps maintain machine performance, prevents unpleasant odors, and extends the appliance’s lifespan.
It is recommended to use the tablet with the machine empty, following the package instructions, once a month or every 30 wash cycles.
JIMO Limpa Máquina Lava-Louça
Essential product to maintain long-term machine performance. Removes invisible dirt, accumulated grease, soap residues, and neutralizes odors.
Monthly application helps preserve internal parts and ensures that cycles remain effective.
Clean and fresh-smelling machine
To leave your dishwasher even more pleasant after each cycle, JIMO Essence Limão is the ideal solution.
With exclusive technology for humid and enclosed environments, the product neutralizes odors and gently scents the interior of the machine, providing long-lasting cleanliness and citrus freshness without transferring fragrance to the dishes.
Learn more: JIMO Essence Limão – made for your machine and for you.
Benefits of correctly using the dishwasher with the right products
Using the right product makes a difference in cost, time, and even equipment longevity. Here are the main benefits:
Water and energy savings
A study by the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) revealed that using a dishwasher with appropriate detergent drastically reduces water consumption.
A family of 8 people may use between 120 liters (washing by hand with the tap running for 15 minutes) and 8 to 20 liters per cycle (using a dishwasher), depending on the model and selected cycle.
Additionally, the appliance is more energy-efficient, especially in automatic and programmed cycles.
Reduced residues and rework
Specific products prevent excess foam, soap residue, and stains on utensils. This means less need for extra rinsing or re-washing — saving time, water, and energy.
Equipment preservation
Detergents and tablets developed for dishwashers protect internal components, preventing grease buildup and incrustations in pipes and filters. This prolongs the machine’s lifespan and reduces the need for maintenance.
More convenience in daily life
With the right products, the dishwasher delivers superior cleaning and shine with no extra effort. This optimizes household routines and frees up time for other tasks.
Proper product use is essential for good dishwasher performance. As reinforced by Leonardo Linck, chemist and Technical R&D Director at JIMO:
Many people still associate dishwashers with luxury, but in reality, they are a practical and economical solution. Using the right products and loading the machine correctly saves water, time, and ensures more hygienic washing. The machine’s hot water reaches temperatures we cannot achieve at the sink, which greatly improves grease and microorganism removal.
In most common models, there are two compartments on the appliance door: one for detergent (tablet, powder, or gel) and another for rinse aid, which helps drying and prevents spotting.
Remember: it is important to consult the manual and follow your machine’s specific instructions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right products for your dishwasher is essential to maintain the appliance’s performance and ensure dishes that are always clean, shiny, and residue-free.
Avoid homemade solutions and rely on the JIMO line for true cleaning — with practicality, safety, and high performance.
Practical solutions for your home
JIMO offers products developed to make your daily routine easier, with options for different applications, insects/pests, surfaces, and environments.
Find the ideal products to make your daily life easier.
