06.04.12
Consumer Reports has unveiled new test data on hard water performance of ADDs. |
In its latest tests, the non-profit group added hard-water performance to the ratings of models first reported on in October 2011.CR began this test last year in response to readers’ comments about a white film or cloudy buildup on dishware.The Laundress and Method Smarty Dish earned the lowest marks for film and discoloring.
Overall, Finish Powerball Tabs and Cascade Complete All In 1 ActionPacs earned the highest marks in CR’s Ratings of nonphosphate gels, liquids, packs, pods, powders and tablets.Finish Quantum, top-rated in the last round of tests, slipped to third place because of its performance in CR’s new hard-water tests.
In tests, CR said many dishwasher detergents left food stuck to plates or pots.Finish Powerball Tabs, the only CR Best Buy, and Cascade Complete All In 1 ActionPacs, a CR Recommended product, both cleaned dishes and pots well and dishware washed in these detergents didn’t have water spots, white film, or discolored aluminum.
Detergents from Great Value (Walmart), and Kirkland Signature (Costco) didn’t clean very well in either, according to Consumer Reports.
And, while no type of detergent was best overall, liquids and gels tended to fall toward the bottom of the ratings, said Consumer Reports.
More info: www.consumerreports.org