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Etching on glassware caused by dishwasher

trekker
11 years ago

I know this is an old problem for which the only solution appears to be wash glassware by hand. But I keep hoping.

I have a water softener and use vinegar in my rinse dispenser.

Recently I found some ideas that I'm willing to try but I'm wondering if anybody out there has any information about them.

- use a so-called "natural" dishwasher detergent. The two brands suggested are Ecover and BioKleen.
- add baking soda (amount unclear) to the dishwasher. I haven't a clue as to why this would help.

Comments, anybody?

Comments (2)

  • emma
    11 years ago

    As far as I know there is no way to stop etching except hand washing them. I buy break resistant dishes and my glasses lasted at least 15 years and they were etched. When I found more break resistant glasses I replaced them.

  • popeda
    11 years ago

    I would look into your water softner. Did they test the water for you and recommend what it would take to really soften it? I had an etching problem and read up all I could about it. Once they are etched, it's over for that glass. I got new glasses and started using Cascade complete and plenty of rinse stuff. I try to avoid the lemon versions. I cut down on the amount of detergent I was using. I ran vinegar through the dishwasher every month. Seemed to help.

    We could not afford a water softner, but after replacing the dishwasher in less than five years, and the hot water heater, we know we should have done it. Done correctly and maintained correctly, a softner should not leave water etching your glasses.

    We are moving to a new home in a rural area; we will have whole-house rainwater collection for our water. They say it is naturally soft and won't harm your appliances...or glasses. If it rains.