Yes, you do need special dishwasher detergent or dishwasher soap to use in a dishwasher. Regular dish soap or handwashing soap should not be used in dishwashers because they create excessive suds that can lead to a mess and potentially damage the dishwasher.
Dishwasher detergents are specifically designed to work effectively in the high-temperature and high-pressure environment of a dishwasher. They are formulated to remove food residue, grease, and stains from dishes while preventing excessive sudsing. Dishwasher detergents also often contain ingredients that help to soften water, preventing the buildup of limescale and improving the overall cleaning performance.
When using a dishwasher, always make sure to use the appropriate dishwasher detergent or pods as recommended by the dishwasher manufacturer. Additionally, it's essential to load the dishwasher properly, not overloading it, and pre-rinsing heavily soiled dishes can help achieve the best cleaning results.