Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs

Reviewers are impressed by the cleaning ability of Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs dishwasher detergent, which handles dishes, glassware and pots and pans equally well, without leaving behind any spots or residue. The Cascade Complete line of dishwasher detergent is a favorite of consumers and receives top marks in comparison testing. The makers of Cascade say consumers won't need to pre-rinse dishes, although experts say that pre-rinsing is unnecessary with most modern dishwashers anyhow.

The Cascade Complete ActionPacs line comes in two other formulations: Cascade ActionPacs with Dawn (*Est. 39 cents per load) and Cascade ActionPacs with Extra Bleach Action (*Est. 39 cents per load). Although the makers of Cascade stopped phosphates as of July 1, 2010, these products may contain other additives such as chlorine bleach, dyes and perfumes (the company does not disclose ingredients). If you prefer a more eco-friendly brand of dishwasher detergent, reviewers recommend Biokleen Automatic Dish Powder (*Est. 21 cents per load), which contains no phosphates, dyes or chlorine. Reviewers say it's a good value and does a good job on dishes, though Cascade is said to be better on heavily soiled pots and pans.

Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs dishwasher detergent receives the most reviews of any brand and it is one of the detergents included in ConsumerReports.org's testing. This detergent is a consumer favorite, and reviews on Bestcovery.com, Buzzle.com and CascadeClean.com praise its powerful cleaning ability.