I messed up. You're using too much detergent.

The speaker starts by addressing the audience with a casual greeting and quickly dives into the topic of dishwashers. They admit to having provided incorrect information in a previous video about dishwasher detergent usage and apologize for the confusion. The speaker clarifies the function of dishwashers, explaining the process of water filling, pumping, and draining, and the role of detergent dispensers in the washing cycle. They express their pet peeve about pre-dosed detergent packs and hypothesize that these might be contributing to dissatisfaction with dishwashers. The speaker also acknowledges the feedback received from the previous video and sets the stage for further discussion on the topic.

The speaker discusses the importance of using the correct amount of dishwasher detergent and how too much can lead to rinsing issues. They dispel the notion that filling the detergent cup completely is necessary, especially with hard water, as it can result in a residue on dishes. The speaker also touches on the marketing strategies of detergent companies and the need for users to adjust detergent quantities based on water hardness and the soil level of the dishes. They share their regret for having previously recommended following the instructions on a detergent box without proper context and emphasize the importance of experimenting with detergent amounts to find the optimal usage for individual dishwashers.

The speaker conducts a test to see if detergent tabs dissolve in parts, mimicking the actions of pre-wash and main wash detergents. They test three different kinds of detergent packs and observe that the Cascade and Great Value packs disintegrate quickly, while the Finish tab dissolves more slowly. The speaker debunks the theory that the colors in detergent packs indicate a staged release of detergent. They also address the confusion between 'pre-wash detergent' and the marketing terms 'no pre-wash required,' explaining that these terms refer to skipping the pre-washing of dishes before loading the dishwasher, not the use of detergent during the wash cycle.

The speaker questions the performance claims of detergent packs based on independent lab testing, noting that such tests may not use the pre-wash function of dishwashers. They share their personal experience with various dishwashers and detergents, advocating for the use of powder detergent in both labeled places of the dishwasher dispenser. The speaker expresses skepticism about manufacturer recommendations, suggesting that these may be influenced by co-marketing agreements rather than objective performance metrics. They emphasize that detergent chemistry is more important than packaging and that the chemicals in different detergent products are largely similar.

The speaker compares the costs of different dishwasher detergent forms, including tabs, gels, and powders. They highlight that powder detergents offer more cost-effectiveness and a higher number of washes per container. The speaker also discusses environmental considerations, noting that powders typically come in paperboard boxes, which may be more sustainable than the plastic packaging of gels and tabs. They mention that gels might be the worst-performing option due to the inability to combine enzymes and bleach in the same product, which powders and tabs can achieve by keeping the components separate until mixed with water.

The speaker shares personal experiences with a dishwasher design flaw that led to the use of gel detergents instead of powders. They discuss the importance of maintaining dishwashers, including cleaning the gasket and running periodic cleaning cycles with products like citric acid. The speaker also mentions the use of dishwasher salt in European models to improve detergent effectiveness and the need for regular refilling of this salt. They advocate for following the manufacturer's instructions for optimal dishwasher performance.

The speaker addresses criticisms about their stance on dishwasher detergent, particularly the comparison of washing results after 15 minutes versus the end-results. They defend the importance of the pre-wash step in the dishwasher cycle and encourage viewers to observe their dishwasher's operation to understand the detergent dispenser's timing. The speaker suggests that using the cheapest available detergent, ideally a boxed powder, for both pre-wash and the main wash could lead to satisfactory results. They also suggest trying store-brand detergent packs if necessary, and emphasize the value of using less expensive detergents effectively over more expensive options.

The speaker concludes with a discussion on the messiness of powder detergents, downplaying concerns about spills inside the dishwasher. They reiterate the importance of using detergents effectively and observing the market trend towards less customizable detergent amounts. The speaker humorously reflects on the potential for a future discussion on laundry soap and ends on a note that encourages viewers to continue doing what works for them with their dishwashers, as long as they are happy with the results.