Best Commercial Dishwasher Detergents of 2025

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Commercial dishwasher detergents are specially formulated to effectively clean dishes and utensils in high volume commercial kitchens. These detergents are designed to remove tough stains and grease, leaving dishes sparkling clean and free of residue. They come in a variety of forms, including liquid, powder, and gel, and are specifically made for use in commercial dishwashers. Many commercial dishwasher detergents are also environmentally friendly, making them a great choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. Whether you run a restaurant, catering service, or any other type of commercial kitchen, using a high-quality dishwasher detergent is essential for maintaining a clean and sanitary workspace.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Commercial Dishwasher Detergents
Quality Chemical Heavy Duty Liquid Alkaline Commercial Dishwasher Detergent
Quality Chemical Dish Detergent is a heavy-duty liquid alkaline commercial dishwasher detergent that effortlessly cleans food residues from various surfaces. Its industrial-grade formula dissolves tough food stains, grease, grime, and residue, leaving your dishes sparkling clean without the need for pre-rinsing. This premium detergent is compatible with both low and high temp dishwashers, effectively tackling even the most stubborn deposits and stains. With a pH of 13.9, this alkaline-based detergent swiftly cuts through grease and grime while remaining gentle on surfaces, making it a reliable choice for commercial dishwashers.
Active Element Commercial Dishwasher Detergent - Makes One 5 Gallon Pail
The Active Element commercial dishwasher detergent is a cost-effective concentrated powder that can make 5 gallons of powerful liquid detergent. It dissolves food soils and emulsifies fats in no time, and can be used in both high and low temperature commercial dishwasher machines. This dishwasher detergent is shipped factory direct and is not for household use. Remember to read the Safety Data Sheets before use, and avoid using it on aluminum kitchen ware.
Cascade Platinum Plus ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent Pods
Cascade Platinum Plus Pods are the ultimate solution for your dishwashing needs. With 2X the grease fighting power and 2X the scrubbing power compared to Cascade Complete ActionPacs, these detergent pods can effortlessly tackle even the toughest dried-on food. Say goodbye to stubborn stains and hello to spot-free, sparkling clean dishes. The 40% larger liquid top provides even more cleaning power, while still fitting perfectly in your dishwasher detergent dispenser. Plus, running your dishwasher daily with Cascade Platinum Plus Pods can save up to 20 gallons of water per load compared to handwashing. Experience the convenience and superior cleaning performance of Cascade Platinum Plus Pods for cabinet ready dishes.
Quality Chemical Heavy Duty Dishwasher Detergent
The Quality Chemical Dishwasher Detergent is designed to give your dishes a spotless finish. It effectively removes tough grease and stains from various kitchen items, ensuring they come out clean and ready to use. As a rinse aid, it prevents hard water spots, making your dishes look pristine after washing. Additionally, it helps reduce drying time, allowing you to serve faster. This product is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a clean and efficient commercial kitchen.
Cascade Platinum Power Boost Pods
Cascade Platinum Pods are designed to deliver a powerful clean for your dishes. With a unique POWER BOOSTER formula, these pods quickly dissolve and unleash the grease-fighting power of Dawn. They effectively target and break down even the toughest food particles, including those stuck on for 24 hours. Enjoy the convenience of premeasured pods that eliminate the hassle of wrapping. Plus, by using these pods, you can save up to 15 gallons of water per load, making them an eco-friendly choice for your dishwashing needs.
Commercial Industrial Dishwashing Kit
This complete dishwashing kit is ideal for restaurants and comes with everything you need to keep your dishes and silverware sparkling clean. It includes premium machine dishwash detergent for commercial low and high temperature dishwashers that can handle the toughest baked on deposits and stains. The kit provides great convenience, as it comes with 2 gallons of machine dishwash, 1 gallon of rinse all, and 1 gallon of low-temp sanitizer.
Commercial-Grade Dishwasher Rinse (5-gallon pail)
This commercial-grade rinse is designed for both high and low temperature commercial machines. It effectively removes water spots and residue, leaving dishes and glasses with an even shine. The rinse contains wetting agents and surfactants that speed up the drying process. Sold as a concentrate that makes 5-gallons of powerful rinse, this product is both powerful and cost-effective. Plus, it comes with free nationwide shipping.
Active Element Dish Chlorine Concentrate
The Active Element Chlorine Solution is designed for food service environments, allowing you to easily clean a variety of surfaces including dishware, utensils, and countertops. Its no-rinse formula is particularly beneficial, saving you time and ensuring that your surfaces are safe for food contact. You can use this versatile solution for general cleaning, in three-sink setups, or with commercial dishwashers. Additionally, it is an economical choice, as one bottle can yield up to 1,280 gallons of cleaning solution, making it a smart investment for any kitchen.
Active Element's Rinse Aid (1-Gallon)
Active Element Rinse Aid is a commercial-grade dishwasher detergent that enhances the drying process and eliminates water spots, leaving your dishes with a streak-free even shine. Its extra strength formula performs well in all water conditions, ensuring spot-free flatware and glassware. Whether you're using a high or low temperature commercial dishwasher machine, this rinse aid is ready to use. With its anti-spotting builders, wetting agents, and surfactants, it guarantees excellent results. Perfect for food service kitchens, including restaurants, diners, hotels, schools, and more, Active Element Rinse Aid is a must-have for achieving spotless and sparkling clean dishes.
Puracy Dishwasher Pods, 50 Count
Effortlessly wash your dishes with Puracy Dishwasher Pods, 50 Count. With advanced, plant-derived enzymes, these biodegradable dishwasher tabs quickly remove grime and dried-on gunk without pre-rinsing. Tested by households nationwide, these dishwasher tabs are perfect for all dishwasher safe items, made with 99.5% natural ingredients, and leave zero residue behind. Plus, with Puracy's Pure Love Guarantee, you can trust these cruelty-free products and get a refund if you're not satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What detergent to use in commercial dishwasher?
For commercial dishwashers, Dalcam's SC-500 is recommended. It is a high-quality, non-chlorinated, alkaline detergent that effectively cleans food residue and tough grease from dishware. It is available in a 20-litre drum or a 4-litre jug.
2. Can you use regular dishwasher detergent in a commercial dishwasher?
No, it is important to use a dedicated dishwasher detergent designed for commercial dishwashers. Regular dish soap should only be used for hand-washing dishes.
3. Do commercial dishwashers need soap?
Yes, commercial dishwashers require soap. Some models have built-in detergent and rinse aid dispensers, while others require manual addition of detergent and rinse aid.
4. Does it matter what dishwasher detergent you use?
Yes, the choice of dishwasher detergent matters. Detergent packs tend to perform better than gels as they contain a wider range of ingredients, such as enzymes, degreasers, bleach, and rinse aids. The combination of these substances can significantly improve cleaning performance.
5. What is the difference between commercial and residential dishwashers?
Commercial dishwashers are designed to operate at higher temperatures and work faster than residential models. They may consume more energy but compensate for it with their speed and larger capacity. Additionally, commercial models often have energy-efficient hot water feeds.
6. Is liquid or pods better for dishwasher?
In tests, dishwasher pods have shown better cleaning performance compared to liquid detergents. Pods are also less likely to leave a film on dishes. They come in premeasured units for convenience.
7. Is gel or powder detergent better for dishwasher?
Powder detergent is often the better choice, especially in areas with hard water that causes limescale deposits and streaks. Powder detergent is more effective at removing these stains.
8. Is it better to use liquid dishwasher detergent or pods?
If cleaning performance and convenience are priorities, dishwasher pods are the better choice. However, if you want to have a lower environmental impact or prefer measuring out the detergent yourself, both liquid and powder options are good alternatives.
During our commercial dishwasher detergent research, we found 24 commercial dishwasher detergent products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 841,369 customer reviews through our big data system to write the commercial dishwasher detergents list. We found that most customers choose commercial dishwasher detergents with an average price of $51.50.
The commercial dishwasher detergents are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of commercial dishwasher detergents, including Quality Chemical, Active Element, Cascade, Puracy. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 313 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.
Commercial Dishwasher Detergents Comparison Table
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Brand | Quality Chemical | Active Element | Cascade | Quality Chemical | Cascade | Quality Chemical | Active Element | Active Element | Active Element | Puracy |
Item Form | Liquid | Powder | Pac | Liquid | Pac | Liquid | Liquid | Liquid | Liquid | Pac |
Scent | Citrus | Unscented | Mountain | other | Lemon | Lemon | Unscented | Unscented | Unscented | Free & Clear |
Material Feature | - | Concentrated | Gluten Free | Natural | Gluten Free | Mineral Based | Concentrated | Rinse Free | Streak Free | Biodegradable Warning |
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