Dishwasher salt, also known as water softener salt or dishwasher granular salt, is specifically designed for use in dishwashers. It serves a different purpose than table salt and is not intended for consumption.
Here are some key differences between dishwasher salt and table salt:
Purpose: Dishwasher salt is used to regenerate the water softening system in dishwashers. It helps to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from the water, preventing the buildup of limescale and ensuring optimal performance of the dishwasher. Table salt, on the other hand, is primarily used as a seasoning in cooking and for adding flavor to food.
Composition: Dishwasher salt is usually coarse-grained and consists mainly of sodium chloride (NaCl), similar to table salt. However, dishwasher salt may have additional additives or anti-caking agents to improve its performance in the dishwasher. Table salt, on the other hand, is typically finely ground and may contain iodine or other additives for nutritional purposes.
Edibility: While table salt is safe for consumption in reasonable quantities, dishwasher salt is not intended for human consumption. It is not processed or refined to meet food-grade standards and may contain impurities or additives that could be harmful if ingested.
It's important to note that dishwasher salt should only be used in dishwashers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using table salt or other substitutes in place of dishwasher salt may lead to damage or malfunction of the dishwasher.
If you have concerns about the safety or usage of dishwasher salt, it's best to refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your dishwasher or consult the appliance's manual.