Q: I washed a load in my dishwasher using a new box of Cascade powdered detergent, and my dishes didn't come out as clean as usual. The biggest problem was with my aluminum pressure cooker, which came out spotted and discolored. I called Procter & Gamble and was told all manufacturers are being required to make phosphate-free detergents now. Is there anything I can do to get better results?
A: On July 1, 16 states enacted a ban on high-phosphate dishwasher detergents. In response, manufacturers have reformulated dishwasher detergents sold across the country and in Canada, since they can't reasonably sell different types in different areas.
Phosphates break down grease, so you might see a difference in cleaning performance from detergents that contain little or no phosphates. Consumer Reports recommends three phosphate-free detergents: Biokleen With Natural Oxygen Bleach Powder, Method Smarty Dish and Ecover Tablets. Procter & Gamble also recommends its Cascade Complete All-in-One Action Packs.
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While the problem with your pressure cooker may have been related to the detergent, it's also possible it was caused by a reaction with something else in the dishwasher, said Ian Tholking of Procter & Gamble.
Aluminum is a highly reactive metal, he explained, meaning it can react with water, leaving the surface dark and chalky.
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