Adding regular dishwashing liquid to a dishwasher can create a significant mess and potentially damage the dishwasher. Dishwashers are not designed to handle the excessive suds and foaming action that regular dishwashing liquid produces. Here's what can happen if you add dishwashing liquid to a dishwasher:
Excessive suds: The regular dishwashing liquid will create an abundance of suds in the dishwasher. As the dishwasher operates, the suds will multiply and expand, filling the dishwasher's interior beyond its normal capacity.
Overflow: With the excessive suds, there is a high chance of the dishwasher overflowing, causing a mess on your kitchen floor and potentially damaging nearby appliances or cabinetry.
Malfunction: The dishwasher's pump and drainage system may struggle to handle the large volume of suds, leading to potential malfunctions or blockages.
Residue on dishes: Regular dishwashing liquid may not effectively clean and rinse off dishes in a dishwasher. It's not formulated to work in the high-temperature and rapid-cleaning cycles of a dishwasher, so your dishes may not come out clean or properly sanitized.
Damage to dishwasher components: The excessive suds and potential overflow can lead to damage to the dishwasher's internal components, including the pump, spray arms, and control panel.
To avoid these issues, it's crucial always to use dishwasher detergent specifically designed for use in dishwashers. Dishwasher detergents are formulated to work efficiently in the dishwasher's environment, producing minimal suds while effectively cleaning and sanitizing your dishes. If you run out of dishwasher detergent, it's best to handwash your dishes until you can get the appropriate detergent to use in the dishwasher.