Can You Use Laundry Detergent Pods in a Dishwasher?

"They look similar enough," says Joe Pacella, a test technician manager at CR. "But laundry pods don't have the enzymes found in dishwasher pacs that actively target crusted food." What's more, laundry detergents may also contain brighteners, fragrances, stain removers, and other chemicals that can leave residue on your dishes.

Plus, laundry detergents create more suds than dish detergents, which can block water spray getting to your dishes and may even damage your dishwasher. So in short: Don't do it.

The best dishwasher detergents we test earn Excellent ratings in getting dishes spotless, and do so while resisting water spots and white film.