We hear you thinking: ‘the best detergent for my crockery? Is that a thing? The answer is yes, choosing the right detergent can significantly extend the life of your crockery. Whether plates, glasses, cutlery or pans, each type of crockery needs its own specific care. So your tableware will stay beautiful for longer! Read our tips and tricks on choosing the best dishwasher detergent below.
Best choice based on material
- Porcelain and ceramic
Porcelain and ceramic are very common in our crockery cupboard nowadays. However, these materials are prone to scratching and cracking. Use a mild detergent without harsh ingredients to protect the glaze.
- Glass
Glassware can quickly become dull if not cleaned properly. Choose a detergent specially designed for glass to avoid dull streaks and stains.
- Stainless steel
Stainless steel crockery is robust but can be damaged by abrasives. Therefore, use a gentle detergent to keep stainless steel shiny and scratch-free.
- Plastic
Plastic crockery is prone to scratching and can absorb odours (and colours!). A mild detergent without fragrances is ideal to extend the life of your plastic crockery.
- Wood
Wooden tableware and cutlery can warp or split if they get too wet. Use a very mild detergent and dry the wood immediately after washing.
Tips for choosing detergent
- Natural ingredients
Choose detergents with natural ingredients. These are less harmful to the environment and gentler on your skin. Win-win!
- Biodegradable
Biodegradable detergents break down faster and reduce environmental impact.
- Free of phosphates and parabens
Phosphates can contribute to water pollution, while parabens can cause skin irritations. Therefore, choose dishwashing detergents that are free of these ingredients.
- pH-neutral
A pH-neutral dishwashing detergent is gentle on your hands as well as your crockery. It prevents damage to the finish of your crockery and keeps your skin healthy.
- Concentrated formulas
Concentrated detergents last longer and are often more efficient. A small amount is enough to get your crockery clean, which can be cost-saving.
Marcel's Green Soap detergents meet all these points. Gentle on your dishes, your hands and the planet.
Dishwashing methods and practical tips
- Hand dishwashing
Use lukewarm water and add the detergent only after the water has filled to avoid foaming. Start with the least dirty dishes and then work towards the dirtier items. Rinse again with cold water to make the tableware shine.
- Pre-soak
For stubborn stains and caked-on residues, first soak your tableware for a while in soapy water with a mild detergent. This not only makes cleaning a lot easier, but also prevents you from scrubbing too hard (and ruining your crockery!).
- Environmentally friendly dishwashing
Choose cold or lukewarm water to save energy. Make suds and don't leave the tap running while washing up. Use sustainable detergents, washing-up brushes and sponges.
Frequently asked questions about dishwashing:
- How do I avoid scratching my crockery?
Do not use abrasive sponges or brushes. Choose soft cloths and sponges specially designed for delicate tableware.
- What is the best dishwasher detergent for grease stains?
For greasy tableware, choose a detergent with strong degreasers, preferably based on natural ingredients such as citric acid or vinegar. Always let greasy tableware soak in for a while so the product can do its job. Washing up afterwards will be a lot easier!
- How can I make my crockery shine?
After dishwashing, rinse your tableware with cold water and dry it immediately with a clean, dry cloth to avoid water spots.
- Is dishwashing detergent harmful to my skin?
Some detergents contain harsh ingredients that can cause skin irritations. Choose a product with mild and caring ingredients. For example, our dishwashing products contain extra glycerine for super-soft skin.
Do you prefer to put your dishwasher to work? Marcel has the right products for that too! Check out our sustainable dishwasher tablets and sustainable dishwasher capsules here. For gleaming clean dishes and a cleaner planet.
