It is generally safe to run a load of dishes in the dishwasher without detergent, although it may not effectively clean your dishes. The main purpose of dishwasher detergent is to remove food particles, grease, and stains from your dishes, as well as to prevent the buildup of residue and leave your dishes sparkling clean.
Without detergent, the dishwasher's main functions, such as water spraying, rinsing, and drying, will still operate. This can help to remove loose debris and provide some level of sanitization through the high-temperature wash. However, it's important to note that the lack of detergent may result in less effective cleaning, and your dishes may not come out as clean as they would with the use of detergent.
If you find yourself without dishwasher detergent, you can try using alternative cleaning methods such as baking soda or vinegar, which may help to remove some stains and odors. However, these alternatives are not as effective as dedicated dishwasher detergent.
It's worth mentioning that using regular dish soap or liquid detergent meant for handwashing dishes in a dishwasher is not recommended. These products can create excessive suds and potentially cause leaks or malfunctions in your dishwasher.
To ensure the best cleaning results and proper maintenance of your dishwasher, it's recommended to use a suitable dishwasher detergent specifically designed for automatic dishwashers.