Technically, you can run the dishwasher without detergent or rinse aid, but it is not recommended and may not be very effective at cleaning your dishes.
Here's what you can expect if you run the dishwasher without detergent or rinse aid:
Ineffectiveness: Without detergent, the dishwasher won't be able to remove grease, food particles, and stains from your dishes effectively. As a result, your dishes might come out still dirty and not properly sanitized.
Odors: Since there's no detergent to break down and remove food residues, your dishwasher might develop unpleasant odors over time.
Residue: Without rinse aid, there is a higher chance of water spots and mineral residues remaining on your dishes, especially if you have hard water.
Potential damage: Running the dishwasher without detergent or rinse aid might not harm the machine itself, but it can lead to unnecessary wear on the components, as it's not performing its intended function.
If you find yourself out of dishwasher detergent or rinse aid and urgently need to clean your dishes, here are some alternatives you can use in a pinch:
Baking soda: Baking soda can help to remove odors and some mild stains. Place a small amount (about 1-2 tablespoons) in the detergent compartment.
Vinegar: White vinegar can be used as a rinse aid substitute. Pour a small amount into the rinse aid compartment, and it can help reduce water spots and improve drying.
However, keep in mind that these alternatives are not as effective as proper dishwasher detergent and rinse aid, so they should only be temporary solutions until you can get the appropriate products. It's best to use the dishwasher as intended with proper detergent and rinse aid to achieve the best cleaning results and maintain the longevity of your dishwasher.