Which is better: dishwasher tablets or capsules?

Today, stores offer a huge variety of detergents designed specifically for dishwashers. Many users are confused about which to choose: dishwasher tablets or capsules. What are the similarities and fundamental differences between these forms? What components do they contain? Let's explore the nuances.

Different forms of the same substances

Almost every housewife has probably wondered what to choose: dishwasher tablets or capsules? Which shape is better and why? In reality, it's a matter of personal preference.

The composition of capsules and tablets for PMM is similar, but in the first case they are in gel form, while in the second case they are in powder form.

So, which is better? In fact, dishwasher capsules have a number of advantages. Gel components dissolve faster and are more suitable for short and cold wash cycles. All capsules also have a self-dissolving polymer shell, so there's no need to remove the packaging before loading them into the dispenser. This is quite convenient.

The ingredients in both capsules and tablets can vary. Therefore, when choosing household cleaning products, read the packaging to determine the ingredients. It's best to choose eco-friendly cleaning products without harsh or aggressive ingredients.

How many components are in these products?

Both capsules and tablets can have either a "long" or "short" composition. This depends on the cost of the detergent and the manufacturer. Therefore, carefully read the information on the package or packet before purchasing.

Tablets and capsules are:

• single-component;
• two-component;
• three-component;
• multicomponent.

The cheapest options are single-component products. These are budget-friendly capsules and tablets that contain only surfactants. It's best to choose those with gentler and safer non-ionic surfactants.

Single-component detergents are the first generation of household dishwasher chemicals. They are very difficult to find commercially today. These capsules and tablets are ineffective against tough stains and burnt-on food. Also, when using single-component detergents, you have to add salt and rinse aid to your dishwasher.

Two-component capsules and tablets contain detergent and rinse aid. They don't protect your dishwasher from scale, mold, or corrosion, and they don't soften water. These household cleaning products will remove light stains and eliminate streaks on dishes. They're inexpensive.

Three-component tablets are the most common option. They contain:

• cleaning agents;
• regenerating salt;
• rinse aid.

3-in-1 capsules and tablets not only remove dirt from dishes and prevent streaks, but also soften hard water, preventing scale and limescale buildup. In addition to the main ingredients, the formula may contain colorings and fragrances.

Finally, when it comes to multi-component products, 4-in-1 and 5-in-1 tablets are available today. There are even 10-in-1 capsules, often labeled as "All in 1." They not only wash dishes and prevent streaks and scale buildup, but also protect the machine from corrosion, combat unpleasant odors, and clean filters.

Multi-component tablets and capsules are the best for PMM, according to most users.

Three- or more-component detergents have multiple layers, each of which dissolves and works at a specific time during the cycle. These tablets and capsules contain particles that remove the most stubborn stains, grease, and carbon deposits. They are also suitable for washing crystal, porcelain, and other delicate dishes.

In addition to cleaning ingredients, multi-component capsules may contain:

• oxidizing particles (chlorine or active oxygen) – to increase cleaning power;
• antimicrobial components;
• flavorings (fragrances can be either synthetic or natural);
• catalysts (they accelerate the action of active particles, eliminating the need to select long washing modes);
• additional substances that make cleaning the dishwasher easier.

Multi-component capsules are more expensive than simpler detergents. Despite this, they are popular due to their comprehensive action. These tablets are consistently ranked among the best.

The choice of product depends on the individual user's preferences. It's best to avoid the cheapest option and instead opt for multi-component solutions. This will not only ensure superior cleaning results but also make dishwasher maintenance easier.

The most popular tablet and capsule products

So, which is better, capsules or tablets? The truth is, if you choose multi-component formulas, either form will provide the most effective cleaning. So, it's worth trying both. This way, you'll understand which is best for you.

There's plenty to choose from in stores. There are a huge number of household chemical manufacturers on the market, each offering a whole line of products. We'll tell you about the most popular capsules and tablets, which are preferred by most dishwasher users.

BioMio Total 7-in-1 dishwasher tablets are appealing due to their natural ingredients. They contain eucalyptus essential oil. They effectively and gently remove stains even at low temperatures and on short wash cycles. They leave a pleasant scent on dishes.

The eco-friendly BioMio Total 7 in 1 contains:

• oxygen-containing bleach 15-30%;
• polycarboxylates;
• nonionic surfactants;
• limonene;
• eucalyptus oil;
• enzymes.

BioMio tablets are free of phosphates and other harsh ingredients. They contain no artificial flavors, only natural fragrances. They dissolve quickly in water, softening it and preventing limescale and scale buildup.

BioMio Total 7-in-1 has a self-dissolving shell, so you don't need to remove the individual packaging. The bag itself has a reusable zip lock. One tablet is enough for one wash cycle.The cost of a pack of 60 pieces is about $8.50.

Another popular brand is Synergetic. This Russian manufacturer offers natural and safe household chemicals. Synergetic biodegradable tablets:

• suitable for washing children's dishes;
• have no smell;
• do not contain phosphates, phosphonates, or aggressive surfactants;
• protect the dishwasher from scale formation;
• have an antibacterial effect;
• give cutlery a shine.

Synergetic biodegradable, phosphate-free dishwasher tablets effectively remove stains even at low-temperature washing settings.

The tablets contain sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, plant-based H-tensides, sodium metasilicate, enzymes, and food coloring. The product is hypoallergenic and has not been tested on animals. The capsule shell is water-soluble and does not need to be removed before loading into the machine. The cost is approximately $10 for 100 capsules.

Many customers rave about the Somat Excellence 4-in-1 dishwasher capsules. Reviews note that the product effectively tackles even the toughest stains, leaves dishes sparkling, cares for the dishwasher, and gently cleans delicate surfaces.

Each Somat Excellence capsule has a biodegradable, water-soluble shell. The capsule consists of several layers. The red gel fights grease and leaves dishes sparkling. The other layers remove complex protein and starch stains. It also contains active oxygen-based bleaching particles to remove plaque.

Somat Excellence 4in1 contains:

• oxygen-containing bleaching agent 5-15%;
• phosphonates;
• polycarboxylates;
• Nonionic surfactants less than 5%;
• fragrances.

The powerful Somat Excellence 4-in-1 formula provides deep cleaning of burnt-on stains. These capsules contain a complex of carefully selected active ingredients. A 60-capsule package costs approximately $13.

Users have highly praised the Fairy Platinum All-in-One dishwasher capsules. They remove stubborn stains from dishes in one go, leaving behind a pleasant citrus scent. Furthermore, the product maintains the dishwasher's condition, preventing limescale buildup, odors, and grease deposits.

The manufacturer highlights the following advantages of Fairy Platinum capsules:

• effective removal of dried-on, burnt-on food and grease the first time;
• protection of dishes from tarnishing;
• quick dissolution even in cold water;
• preventing fat deposits inside the dishwasher: in the filter, spray arms, and drain system.

One capsule is designed for one use and cannot be divided. Fairy Platinum All in One contains:

• 5-15% nonionic surfactants;
• oxygen-containing bleach;
• phosphonates less than 5%
• enzymes;
• flavoring agent;
• citronellol;
• linalool.

Remove the capsule from the package and place it in the dishwasher. Do not puncture or otherwise damage the individual packaging. If the active ingredients come into contact with the skin, an allergic reaction may occur. A pack of 70 capsules costs approximately $16.

All the capsule and tablet products described contain regenerating salt, so you don't need to add it. You also don't need to use a rinse aid—it's already included in the tablets and capsules. Which brand to choose is entirely up to you. We recommend trying different brands and then choosing the best one for you.

   

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