Liz's Laundry

Dishwasher Tablet Not Dissolving? Here's 4 Reasons Why

Apr 19, 2023

Dishwasher containing a Dishwashing Tablet Not Dissolving

Most of us (me included!) can't live without our dishwashers. 

They are just so convenient, easy to use, and make life easier so much easier - not to mention also keeping your dishes clean and hygienic.

However, sometimes, those fancy expensive dishwasher tablets may not be dissolving completely during the wash, leaving your dishes with residue, and making you wonder why you spent money on tablets that didn't work. It's one of the most common dishwasher questions.

Let's explore the reasons why dishwasher tablets may not dissolve, AND how you should be able to fix this issue.

The 4 reasons why your dishwashing tablets may not dissolve

There could be several different reasons why dishwasher tablets may not dissolve properly, but these are the four most common causes why.

1. Improper Dishwasher Loading

Loading the dishwasher incorrectly may cause the tablet to not dissolve properly. Placing dishes too close together or not leaving enough space for water circulation may prevent the tablet from dissolving and distributing evenly.

2. Low Water Temperature

Dishwasher tablets rely on nice hot water to dissolve properly. If the water temperature is too low, the tablet may not dissolve entirely, thus not working correctly and leaving residue on your dishes.

3. Defective Dispenser

Sometimes, your dispenser may not open correctly during the wash cycle, causing the tablet not to be released into the dishwasher. This issue can sometimes occur due to a faulty dispenser, a malfunctioning latch, or some kind of obstruction in the dispenser.

4. Hard Water

Hard water is high in minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can interfere with the effectiveness of dishwasher tablets. The minerals may bind with the tablet, preventing it from dissolving entirely.

How to fix the dishwasher tablets not dissolving issue

If you are experiencing issues with your dishwasher tablet not dissolving, here are some steps you can take to fix the problem:

Load the Dishwasher Correctly

Ensure that you are loading the dishwasher correctly, leaving enough space for the water to circulate around the dishes. Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher and ensure that the dishes are not blocking the dispenser.

Clean the Dispenser

If the dispenser is obstructed, remove any debris or residue that may be preventing it from opening correctly. If the dispenser is faulty, consider replacing it or seeking professional assistance.

Use a Rinse Aid

Using a rinse aid can help improve the effectiveness of your dishwasher tablets, particularly if you have hard water. The rinse aid will prevent the minerals from binding with the tablet, allowing it to dissolve correctly.

Check the Water Temperature

Ensure that your dishwasher is heating the water to the recommended temperature, which is usually between 120-150 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water temperature is too low, adjust the settings on your dishwasher or consult a professional.

Our recommendation: Switch to Hudstone Dishwashing Powder

If you're still having issues with your dishwasher tablets not dissolving properly, it might be time to switch up your methods.

Hudstone's top rated Dishwashing Powder is specially designed to dissolve quickly in hot water, leaving your dishes spotlessly clean and residue-free! 

Our powder is formulated with all natural ingredients that will keep your dishes safe and free from all toxins. We tested it against Australia's best selling brands, and it outperformed them ALL! And the best part is, it won't leave any harsh chemical smell lingering on your dishes either.