Four Emergency Substitutes to Dishwasher detergent

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural, gentle abrasive that softens water. “In a pinch, you can use baking soda in your dishwasher to clean dishes,” Polich says. “Simply fill the detergent cup with baking soda as you would usually with detergent, and run a cycle.”

Baking soda absorbs odors. And the abrasive action, combined with the really hot water, loosens grime without harming your dishes or your appliance.

Even if you’re not out of dishwasher detergent, running an occasional empty cycle with baking soda freshens the interior, drain and hoses.