If you have hard water, you’re not alone. It’s one of the leading causes of white, cloudy film on your clean dishes and glasses. In the past, detergents used phosphates to help counteract hard water, but because of the environmental impact, government regulations today require all companies to remove phosphates from their products.
What should I do if I have hard water?
All of our dish products are designed to work effectively in all kinds of water hardness. Our dishwasher pacs, like Cascade Platinum ActionPacs™, are formulated with water softeners to help prevent hard water deposits on your dishes—and as always—are the perfect dose.
What is the cloudy stuff on our glasses and dishes? Is it still safe to eat and drink from them?
The film that most often forms when detergent combines with water hardness is mainly made up of magnesium, calcium, and aluminum —elements commonly found in many of the foods that we eat. Nevertheless, we always recommend that consumers wash any residue left on dishes before using them again.
How can I prevent filming on glasses and dishes?
If you’re using Cascade® and notice that your dishes look filmy after they’ve been cleaned, consider the following: Make the shift to Cascade ActionPacs™. They’re complete unit doses, which means they have everything you need in one. If you prefer powders or gels, make sure you fill your detergent chamber(s) completely and properly. Double-check that your dishwasher is washing with water that is at least 120°F (check your water heater). Run hot water at your kitchen sink before starting the dishwasher to help reach this temperature. If you’re still experiencing filmy residue, you could have hard water. Use Cascade Rinse Aid™ to help minimize spotting and filming on dishes.
How can I remove hard water film that is already present?
For non-metal items, we recommend a vinegar wash. Put two cups of white vinegar in a bowl and place on bottom rack of the dishwasher. Run the glasses/dishes through a cycle with no detergent. Re-wash with Cascade® to remove residual vinegar.
For metal items, follow manufacturers suggestion for cleaning. We suggest cleaning by hand using a stainless steel cleaner for stainless steel items or silver cream for silver items.
Why Choose Cascade for Hard Water Marks and Films?
Cascade Platinum ActionPacs™ has 3X more film-fighting power* with built-in water-softening agents for sparkling-clean silverware, plates, and glasses. But if you’re still experiencing the negative effects of hard water on your dishes and glasses, consider installing a water softening system in your home.
* vs. the leading gel after 15 cycles in hard-water lab test