How can I avoid glass etching in dishwashers, and how can it be repaired?
Question:We've tried various detergents, but our glassware seems to be permanently damaged.
Answers:
To avoid etching I have heard that you should not use the citrus type dishwashing detergents. I haven't tested this because I use regular Cascade Complete (not the orange kind). I do not have etching problems and my glasses go thru the normal cycle at least three times each week for several years now. I use Jet Dry also.
They sell a glass filler for eyeglasses that works great (liquid lens). It fills in any scratches, much like clear nail polish can. I would be sure to use liquid dishwash detergent and the "china" cycle from now on. If you don't have this option on your dishwasher, maybe you'll need to handwash with mild detergent (Ivory) Good luck! :)
Have you tried Cascade? We only use our dishwasher to was our glasses and none of them are etched. Not even the cheapie Ikea wine glasses.
The etching has more to do with the high content of minerals in your water than it does your detergent. And yes, your glassware is permanently damaged.
Etching is normally caused by powdered or gel detergent that does not get dissolved. Sometimes this is caused by the water not being hot enough. Temps around 130 degrees are recommended.
I had used cascade for years with an etching problem.
After reading a consumer reports that said the Walmart dish washing detergent worked well and was much cheaper, I tried it. After a month all of our glasses were etched.
I have learned my lesson and have gone back to Cascade. Some of the etched glasses look better but I have replaced others because they were very bad.
Sometimes the dishwasher deturgent is at fault and sometimes it means that the glasses are defective. It's not fixable. If you have good expensive glassware don't wash it in the dishwasher.
You may need a rinse agent and a water softener.
All citrus type detergents (whether lemon or orange) along with the extremely hot water used in your dishwasher will not only etch your glassware, but it will take the finish off your flatware.
Sometimes even if your flatware is 18/10 stainless steel, which is the best, it can start to get blotches or small rust pitting. If your flatware is 18/0, and many times 18/8 stainless steel and you use citrus dishwasher detergent you can expect the "finish to diminish" after a couple of months.
Give it up and replace the glasses. Next time, wash by hand.
More Related Questions & Answers...