White film may form on glassware and dishes when using phosphate-free dishwasher detergent.
Dishwashing detergents are phasing in a new phosphate-free formula to comply with various EPA regulations that became effective July 1, 2010. This switch to the new formula has been gradually happening since late 2009 and is continuing to the present.
Phosphates are added to dishwasher detergents to remove minerals from the water and thus improve dishwasher performance. Many detergents that do not include phosphates in their formula tend to leave mineral deposits on glassware, plastic items, pots and pans. It also causes poor wash performance and many complaints.
The deposits are in the form of a white film on glassware and other items, even the interior of the dishwasher itself. The white film is often mistaken to be a problem with the dishwasher instead of the detergent. All phosphate-free dishwasher detergent formulas appear to have this issue. Some appear to have this problem more than others.
Testing has shown that packs and tablets perform better than some powder or gel detergents.
If a white film develops on glassware, then we can safely assume that phosphate-free detergent is the problem.
The easiest way to remove the white mineral film or build-up is to run the glassware and dishware through a dishwasher cycle using citric acid additive. There is a citric acid kit made by GE. The part no. is WD35X151. Pour the mixture in the detergent cup and close the cover and let it disperse normally in the dishwasher cycle.
Place the glassware and dishware in the dishwasher. Remove silverware and other metal items out of the dishwasher and run the cycle with the additive. Turn the dishwasher on and let it run through a cycle with the citric acid and without detergent. The dishes and glassware should come out sparkling.
Dishwasher manufacturers are working to resolve the phosphate-free filming issue but the problems are likely to be with us for a long while. Dishwasher owners may want to repeat the citric acid rinse several times a year to reduce the mineral buildup on dishes.
