DIY dishwasher powder: Cut costs and go eco‑friendly

The dishwasher is one of those essential appliances I can't imagine my kitchen without. It ends the age-old debate about who will wash the dishes and makes tidying up after dinner more pleasant. I reach for homemade dishwashing powder to make its use even more economical.

If you're aiming to cut down on your expenses for dishwasher detergents while also being environmentally conscious, homemade dishwashing powder is the ideal solution. Instead of spending extra on tablets labelled "eco," you can make them at home. You only need a few simple, inexpensive, and easily obtainable ingredients to enjoy sparkling, streak-free dishes.

Homemade powder is considerably cheaper than store-bought alternatives. Ingredients are natural and biodegradable, not harming the environment. Most importantly, they clean dishes effectively, removing even stubborn stains.

Create your own eco-friendly powder at home with accessible ingredients:

• A cup (about 240 ml) of bicarbonate of soda,
• A cup (about 240 ml) of borax,
• Half a cup (about 120 ml) of citric acid in powder form,
• A cup (about 240 ml) of salt.

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight container in a dry place. Before each wash, add two tablespoons of powder to the dishwasher's dispenser and start the preferred programme.

Bicarbonate of soda and salt act abrasively and neutralise unpleasant odours, borax effectively removes grease and stains while softening the water, and citric acid adds shine and a fresh scent.

Do not even consider using dish soap in your dishwasher. You could end up with a flood of foam in your kitchen, which often damages the dishwasher. It might look entertaining in films, but it's best not to try this at home.

Although a dishwasher is undeniably a very useful appliance in any home, not everything can be placed in it.

              
• Silver and silver-plated items: They may lose their shine and develop a dark patina.
• Non-stick coated dishes: High temperatures can damage the coating.
• Cast iron and aluminium dishes: They may rust and discolour.
• Enameled and copper dishes: They may lose colour and shine.
• Wooden dishes: They may crack, warp, or absorb water.
• Plastic dishes: Not all plastics withstand high temperatures. Check the markings on the dish.
• Hand-painted dishes: The decorations may wash off or become damaged.
• Crystal and delicate porcelain: They may crack.

Additionally, avoid washing in the dishwasher stainless steel cutlery with wooden handles, wooden dishes, copper, tin, aluminium, porcelain with hand-made decorations, pots with non-stick coatings, and plastic dishes that are not heat-resistant.