Can You Use Automatic Dishwashing Detergent in a Laundry Washer?
Dear Readers,
I recently found myself pondering a rather intriguing question: Can automatic dishwashing machine detergent, specifically the powder variety, be used in a laundry washer? The internet is rife with conflicting opinions on this topic. Just to clarify, I’m referring to standard powder detergents and not the pods, gels, or any other forms. While I’m aware that hand dishwashing soap can safely be used in a laundry washer, I’m uncertain about the implications of using automatic dishwashing powder. My instinct tells me that if one were to use this type of detergent, it should be in limited amounts. However, I’m not entirely sure about the safety of this practice, especially considering some brands of automatic dishwashing detergent contain bleach. I would assume that if one were to experiment with automatic dishwashing detergent, it would be crucial to wait until the washing machine is filled with water to minimize the risk of bleach adversely affecting the colors of the clothes.
Perplexed in Pinopolis
Dear Perplexed,
You pose an excellent question, and I completely understand the confusion that stems from a simple online search. The term “dishwasher detergent” can refer to both the liquid soap used for handwashing dishes and the more potent, caustic powders, gels, and pods meant for automatic dishwashers. Let’s delve into some basic chemistry to shed light on this issue, focusing on two main factors.
First, let’s discuss pH levels. Water typically has a neutral pH around 7, though it can be slightly acidic. The pH scale indicates how acidic or basic a substance is, with higher numbers representing more basic or caustic compounds. For instance, handwashing soap usually has a pH around 8. To provide a concrete example, I looked up Cascade, a popular brand of dishwashing detergent that I often use. According to its Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), Cascade has a pH of 11.0. In contrast, Tide laundry detergent has a pH ranging from 8.1 to 8.5 when diluted to a 10% solution. This means Tide is much closer to the neutral pH of hand soap.
Now, let me share a personal anecdote. Not too long ago, I made a rather foolish mistake involving my dishwasher. My teenagers occasionally forget to scrape their plates thoroughly, which leads to food particles clogging the float that allows the dishwasher to drain properly. After a costly repair bill due to this issue, I learned how to dislodge those particles and reset the dishwasher. However, in my haste, I neglected to wear gloves when reaching into the wash water. Within a minute, I experienced the onset of a chemical burn. So, take it from me: always use gloves if you need to reach into your dishwasher’s wash water; that detergent is not to be taken lightly.
Now, what else has a pH of 11? That’s right, our old friend sodium hypochlorite, or chlorine bleach. We all know the consequences of soaking clothing in a strong bleach solution: it can quickly deteriorate the fabric or even create holes, depending on the material’s thickness.
This leads me to my second point about why using powdered dishwashing detergent in your clothes washer is not advisable. Most, if not all, automatic dishwashing detergents contain sodium hypochlorite. The issue here is not just the presence of bleach but the uncertainty surrounding the proportions used in these detergents, making it a gamble.
In an emergency, if you find yourself without laundry detergent and are unconcerned about the potential bleaching of your clothes, you might cautiously consider using automatic dishwashing detergent. However, this should only be done if you are extremely careful with the amount you use and if you dissolve the detergent before adding it to the wash water. But let’s be honest, that’s a lot of “if’s.” So, unless you’ve stumbled upon a lifetime supply of automatic dishwashing detergent while lacking any access to proper laundry detergent, let’s categorize this practice under bad idea.
If you have further questions, feel free to send them my way at helpme@home-ec101.com.
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