How to use dishwasher detergent and rinse aid in your Samsung dishwasher

A dishwasher's detergent and rinse aid dispenser

To get the best performance out of your dishwasher, it’s important to use the correct detergent and rinse aid. With the proper care, your dishes will come out sparkling after every wash.

How to use dishwasher detergent

All cycles (except for Rinse Only) require detergent in the detergent compartment. Add the detergent manufacturer's recommended amount for the selected cycle to ensure the best performance. Make sure to use detergent intended for a dishwasher, and not for hand dishwashing.

Should you use Enzyme or Chlorine detergent? It depends on what you're washing. Enzyme-based detergent, like Cascade, aims for caked-on food particles, whereas Chlorine-based detergent targets stains and odors.

Note: If you're using detergent pods or tablets, make sure the tablet is placed properly in the dispenser and the dispenser door is closed properly. If the pod does not fit, use a different brand of pod or liquid dishwasher detergent instead. Detergent pods require hot water to dissolve properly, so the water supply must be at least 120°F. If the manufacturer of the pod or tablet says that a higher temperature is required, then use that.

  1. After loading your dishwasher, open the detergent dispenser flap by pushing the release and the cover will slide open.

  2. Add the recommended amount of detergent, liquid or powder, into the detergent compartment. Be careful not to over fill the dispenser.

  3. Close the flap by sliding it to the left until it clicks.

Hand filling the dishwasher with detergent

If the dishwasher is not dispensing detergent, please see our guide on Detergent does not dispense.

How to use rinse aid

Note: Your dishwasher is designed to use liquid rinse aid only. Using a powdered rinse aid will clog the reservoir opening.

To improve the drying performance, use rinse aid. It is designed to accelerate the drying process by reducing the surface tension of water on the dishes. As a result, water spots are quickly evaporated, leaving your dishes shiny and spotless.

  1. Remove the rinse aid reservoir cap by turning it counterclockwise and fill the rinse aid reservoir with rinse aid.

  2. To control the amount of rinse aid released, turn the rinse aid indicator dial. The dial goes from 1 to 6. The higher the number, the more rinse aid the dishwasher uses.

    A dishwasher rinse aid dispenser
  3. Close the rinse aid reservoir cap by turning it clockwise.

    Note: You will see the Rinse Refill indicator on the control panel when it is time to replace the rinse aid.

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