Quick answer: For more environmentally friendly dishwasher operation, use correctly dosed detergent, choose an energy-saving program according to the level of soiling, and maintain the dishwasher regularly. Certified Ecoflacer tablets with EU Ecolabel are effective at 50–55 °C, contain one pre-portioned dose, and are phosphate and chlorine-free. Rinse aid and dishwasher cleaner serve different purposes and should not be substituted for each other.
Updated: August 2026
What belongs in complete dishwasher care
Dishwashing detergent, rinse aid, salt, and dishwasher cleaner are not four names for the same product. Each addresses a different part of the washing process:
- Tablets or capsules release cleaning agents during the program, which help remove grease and food residue.
- Rinse aid helps water run off dish surfaces and promotes drying without dried water spots.
- Dishwasher salt serves the water softening system. Its need and setting depend on water hardness and appliance design.
- Dishwasher cleaner removes dirt, grease, odor, and deposits from the internal parts of the appliance.
If one part is missing, the result may be worse even when using high-quality tablets. Therefore, it pays to view the dishwasher as a complete system.
What are the benefits of ecological dishwasher tablets?
Precise dosing reduces waste
One tablet represents one pre-portioned dose. You don't have to guess the amount of powder or gel, and there's no risk of pouring in too much detergent. However, do not divide the tablet unless explicitly permitted by the manufacturer.
Certification simplifies choice
The "eco" label on the packaging itself does not indicate by what rules the product was assessed. The EU Ecolabel is a voluntary European certification verified by an independent party. It monitors multiple environmental criteria throughout the product's life cycle while requiring adequate functionality.
Ecoflacer Tabs Lavastoviglie, 22 tablets are listed in the official EU Ecolabel catalog under license IT/015/001. They contain plant-based surfactants, are phosphate and chlorine-free, and their paper packaging is made from 100% recycled paper.
Efficiency at lower temperatures can reduce energy consumption
Ecoflacer tablets are also designed for programs at 50–55 °C. However, only choose a lower temperature if it corresponds to the level of soiling and the dishwasher manufacturer's recommendation. Heavily soiled dishes or hygienically demanding situations may require a more intensive program.
How to use ecological tablets correctly
- Remove larger food scraps from the dishes, but do not pre-rinse them excessively under running water.
- Check that the dishes are dishwasher safe. Wooden items, aluminum, copper, silver, crystal, or delicately decorated dishes may require hand washing.
- Insert one tablet according to the instructions on the packaging, usually into the dry detergent dispenser.
- Select the program according to the soiling, not automatically the longest or hottest one.
- After the program finishes, allow steam to safely escape and remove dishes only after they have dried.
Keep tablets dry, in a closed container, and out of reach of children. Even an ecological cleaning product is a chemical product and can, for example, irritate eyes.
Why use rinse aid
Rinse aid reduces the surface tension of water, allowing water to drain better from dishes. It helps reduce water spots and dull marks on glass and promotes the drying process. You can find, for example, rinse aid with a fresh scent or a lemon-scented variant.
Rinse aids can have different compositions, and not all automatically hold the EU Ecolabel. Adjust the dosage according to the dishwasher's instructions and the result:
- if drops remain on the glass, the dose may be too low,
- if bluish streaks appear, the dose may be too high,
- recheck the settings when water hardness or detergent changes.
Why clean the dishwasher itself
Grease, food residue, and mineral deposits can accumulate in the filter, spray arms, seals, and other internal parts. A dirty dishwasher then cleans less effectively and may smell.
Regularly:
- clean the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions,
- check the patency of the spray arms,
- wipe the seals and door edges,
- replenish salt and rinse aid according to the indicator lights,
- use a specialized appliance maintenance product.
Scala Cura Lavastoviglie, 3 single doses helps remove grease, odor, and limescale. One dose is placed in the interior of the dishwasher according to the instructions and used during a regular wash cycle together with the usual detergent. The manufacturer recommends monthly use. Do not puncture or open the capsule. The complete maintenance procedure, including the filter and spray arms, can be found in the article how to clean a dishwasher.
Most common mistakes when washing dishes ecologically
- Two tablets instead of one: more detergent usually doesn't mean cleaner dishes.
- Long pre-rinsing under the tap: increases water consumption and is often unnecessary.
- Overloaded dishwasher: water won't reach all surfaces and arms can get blocked.
- Unsuitable program: a short program may not handle dried-on residue, while too intensive a program needlessly consumes more energy.
- Neglected filter: dirt can return to the dishes and cause odor.
- Assumption that every "green" product is certified: verify the specific brand and license number.
Frequently asked questions
Are ecological dishwasher tablets effective?
Yes, if they are suitable for the selected program, stored correctly, and used according to instructions. EU Ecolabel certification also includes requirements for the product's functional suitability. The result is also affected by how full the dishwasher is, water hardness, filter condition, and the chosen program.
Do I need to use rinse aid if I have tablets?
It depends on the tablet composition, water hardness, and drying results. If drops or marks remain on the glass, separate rinse aid and its proper setting can help.
Do I need dishwasher salt when using "all-in-one" tablets?
Follow your dishwasher's instructions and water hardness. In areas with hard water, separate regenerating salt may be necessary even when using combined tablets.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Check the filter continuously. Use a specialized cleaner according to the product's instructions and intensity of use; for Scala, monthly use is recommended.
Does Ecolabel mean the product is completely natural?
No. EU Ecolabel does not mean "100% natural" or "chemical-free." It means meeting a set of verifiable environmental and functional criteria for a specific product category.
Smarter washing starts with the right combination
More environmentally friendly dishwasher operation is not just about one capsule. The best results are achieved by combining precise dosing, a suitable program, correctly set rinse aid, and regular maintenance. For everyday washing, you can choose Ecoflacer with EU Ecolabel certification, support drying with a suitable rinse aid, and regularly maintain your dishwasher using Scala Cura Lavastoviglie.
Other products can be found in the dishwashing detergents category on Vygruntujeme.cz.
