Detergent and dish soap serve different purposes in dishwasher and manual washing due to their formulation and intended use.
Detergent for Dishwashers: Dishwasher detergent is specifically formulated for use in dishwashers. It is designed to work effectively with the dishwasher's water jets, high water temperatures, and wash cycles. Dishwasher detergent contains enzymes, surfactants, and other chemicals that help break down and remove food residues, grease, and stains from dishes. It also contains additives that prevent mineral deposits and spots on the dishes during the drying process. Additionally, dishwasher detergent produces less foam compared to dish soap, which is important for the dishwasher's efficient operation.
Dish Soap for Manual Washing: On the other hand, dish soap or dishwashing liquid is formulated for manual dishwashing. It is designed to create a rich lather and cut through grease and grime when used with water and a sponge or scrub brush. Dish soap is typically gentler on the skin and can be milder than dishwasher detergent, as it is intended for hand use. It is also formulated to be easily rinsed off without leaving behind residue that could affect the taste of the dishes. Since manual washing relies on physical agitation and scrubbing, dish soap's foaming action helps in lifting dirt and debris from the dishes.
It's worth noting that using dish soap in a dishwasher can lead to excessive sudsing and overflow, as dish soap tends to create more foam than dishwasher detergent. Dishwashers are specifically designed to work with detergent, which is optimized for their cleaning and rinsing mechanisms. Conversely, using dishwasher detergent for manual washing may be less effective in cutting through grease and might not produce sufficient lather.
In summary, the different formulations and purposes of dishwasher detergent and dish soap make them suitable for their respective applications: dishwasher detergent for automatic dishwashers and dish soap for manual dishwashing.