The 9 best dishwasher tablets of 2026, tested for effectiveness, scent and value

Finding a dishwasher tablet that lives up to its promises is no mean feat. Single dose, all-in-one capsules that combine detergent, rinse aid and salt are now the market favourite, yet results are often disappointing.

If you’re pressed for time, pre-rinsing (or worse, post scrubbing) the dishes to ensure they return to the cupboard without dried-on food or smears isn’t an appealing prospect. That’s why choosing a reliable tablet that works with your machine and water hardness is essential.

While the best dishwashers have a plethora of programmes, it’s the tablet that does much of the hard work. Advances in formulation mean that many clean effectively at cooler temperatures and on shorter cycles, but testing remains the only true way to know which ones deliver genuinely spotless dishes. So, I tried 13 leading brands to find the most reliable performers. Here are the best in a quick list.

The best dishwasher tablets: At a glance

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How to choose the best dishwasher tablets

The main factor to consider is your water. In hard-water areas, mineral deposits can cause limescale build-up, cloudy glassware and water spots. “Knowing your water hardness means you can choose the right tablet strength,” says Lynsey Crombie, cleaning expert, TV presenter and author. “If your water is hard, you’ll need a more powerful tablet to break down limescale. If you have soft water, you can use a gentler tablet.” Most brands recommend adding extra dishwasher salt in hard water regions, but in medium to hard areas, all-in-one tablets are usually enough.

Consider the primary use of your dishwasher too. Smaller households running light loads may manage with milder tablets, while larger families filling heavy loads should prioritise tablets with strong cleaning power and a rinse aid for quicker drying.

Even your preferred cycle makes a difference to your needs. Some tablets are effective at lower temperatures or quick eco-cycles, while others need a standard or intensive wash to dissolve fully and clean thoroughly. If you have a slimline dishwasher, also look for tablets that can easily be halved, as smaller machines need less detergent than full-size ones.

Finally, while there are legal restrictions on the use of harmful chemicals in detergents, if you are concerned about their environmental impact, look for dishwasher tablets containing lower concentrations of bleaching agents and minimal fragrances. Reduced plastic and recyclable packaging are also an added bonus.

How we test dishwasher tablets