Bosch is easily one of the most common brands of appliances in North America, with their dishwashers consistently ranking among the better-performing and more reliable units on the market.
The overall performance of a dishwasher depends on a variety of factors, but without a doubt one of the most important aspects to consider is the dishwashing detergent you use. This becomes even more difficult with the sheer number of detergents available to consumers.
Being that some dishwashing detergents work better than others, it’s important to understand the differences with each so that you can get the best results with your Bosch dishwasher.
What Dishwasher Detergent Does Bosch Recommend?
If you’re using a Bosch dishwasher, then you might want to go with the detergent that’s recommended by the brand itself; Finish. Finish products are renowned for their affordability and effectiveness, as their easy-to-use tablets contain grease-fighting power balls that are extremely effective at removing tough food residue.
Bosch highlights the fact that Finish Powerball Tabs, Quantum Tabs, Jet-Dry Rinse Aid, and Turbo-Dry Rinse Aid are the most effective for removing tough stains and food residue. With that being said, you can also use other detergents in your Bosch dishwasher, and they should have the same (or similar) levels of efficiency. However, you will first need to check the warranty terms and conditions of the brand because some will consider the warranty void if you don’t use a manufacturer-recommended detergent.
If you’d like to look more into what Bosch recommends when it comes to dishwasher detergent, check out their page here.
What is the Recommended Type of Detergent to Use in Bosch?
So, I know what you’re thinking; ‘with so many different types of detergent to choose from, how do I know which would work best with my Bosch dishwasher?’. Outside of the brand of detergent, another important consideration is the type, since they all serve different purposes, and carry varying levels of effectiveness.
Before even recommending a type of detergent be aware of the proper amount of dishwasher detergent required for your bosch machine. Learn what happens if you use too much dishwashing detergent in our full guide here.
Even though Bosch recommends using gel-based detergents in their dishwashers, you can really get away with using any form of tabs, pods, powder, or gel detergents. With that being said, tabs and gel packs deliver the best overall cleaning power, convenience and reliability, but powder is a good (and inexpensive) alternative as well.
Specifically when it comes down to homes with hard water, as the hard water causes limescale deposits which creates white spots, streaks, and cloudiness on glasses.
10 Recommended Dishwasher Detergents for Bosch Dishwashers
1. Finish Powerball Tabs 
If you’ve got a Bosch dishwasher, undoubtedly the number one most recommended dishwasher detergent to use are the Finish Powerball Tabs. This pack comes with 94 tablets that help to soften even the toughest of food residue for quick and easy removal. Meaning that there’s no need to pre-soak or pre-rinse any dishes because Powerball easily cuts through grease and scrubs away burnt and dried-on food in the process.
Plus, each individually wrapped Finish Powerball tab provides a pre-measured dose of detergent, eliminating any mistakes from having to guess the correct amount. And Finish’s rinse agent action helps rinse away residues, eliminating spots and film for an industry-leading sparkling shine.
2. Amazon Brand – Solimo Dishwasher Detergent Pacs 
Another superb pick is Amazon Brand’s Solimo Dishwasher Detergent Packs. Outside of their unbeatable price, the Solimo Dishwasher Detergent Packs comes with 85 single-dose packs that can reliably remove stuck-on food, and are tough on grease, stains, and residue.
Beyond this, these detergent packs are guaranteed to leave your dishes sparkling clean, as well as give them a fresh scent. Plus, since this is Amazon’s brand, once you start to see that your supply is running low, simply ask Alexa to; “order more Solimo laundry detergent packs” through your Alexa device.
3. Finish Quantum 
The Finish Quantum Tabs are another extraordinary option for anybody dealing with stuck-on food, or grease. This unique formula scrubs, degreases, and shines everything in a matter of minutes, giving you the best ever clean and shine. Furthermore, the three separate fast-dissolving chambers help to deliver three power actions; break down and lift tough messes, cut through grease, and a finishing boost of shine.
The advanced powder with bleach specifically seeks out and cleans tough stains like tea and coffee, so there’s no need to pre-soak or pre-rinse anything. Plus, this formula cleans everything in short cycles and provides glass protection while washing away residue for an unbeatable sparkling shine. As if this wasn’t already enough to convince you, the tub is also completely recyclable.
4. Finish All in 1 Gelpacs 
The Finish All in 1 Gelpacs pack quite the punch and carry 3x the concentrated cleaning power of regular Finish Gel. Finish’s revolutionary pre-soakers help to form the ideal solution for scrubbing away tough food residues, such as baked-on lasagna or dried-on oatmeal. It’s powerful cleaners are guaranteed to remove even the toughest stains, and gently scrub dishes and glasses to create a truly revolutionary sparkling shine. Plus, the All in 1 Gelpacs are easy to use and pre-measured pods with a refreshing orange scent that is safe for septic systems.
5. Miele Dishwasher Tabs 
Miele’s Dishwasher Tabs is another remarkable alternative, and are specifically engineered to perform in any dishwasher (not just Bosch). Each tablet features a powerful enzyme formula as well as three-layer construction that delivers superior wash results, even with stubborn soiling and food deposits.
Also, thanks to the water-soluble foil, there’s no unpackaging necessary, and each tab carries functions such as rinse aid, salt, glassware protection, and quick intense wash capabilities. Plus, this unique formula is phosphate free, and eco-friendly.
6. Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods 
Cascade is another household brand that needs no introduction, and their Platinum Dishwasher Pods are truly one of the absolute best detergents for removing tough stains. Each pod breaks down food soils to clean 99% of visible and invisible food residue, providing you with a deep hygienic clean that you’ll be able to see and feel.
Furthermore, Cascade’s Platinum + Oxi is not only powerful enough to clean 24-hour stuck-on foods, but it’s also one of the best stain-fighting formulas on the market. Each pod is also pre measured, so no guessing is required, and features an incredibly reliable detergent that is free of chlorine and phosphate.
7. Cascade Free & Clear Gel Dishwasher Detergent
If you’re in search of a more natural formula from a reputable brand, then look no further than the Cascade Free & Clear Gel Dishwasher Detergent. This specific gel is formulated with bio-based and other thoughtfully selected ingredients, and is Cascade’s only dye-free liquid top. In fact, not only does this formula not contain any dye, but it’s also made without the use of phosphates or chlorine bleach. Plus, since these are conveniently packaged into Cascade’s ActionPacs, there’s no pre measuring required, making them exceptionally easy and convenient to use.
8. Finish Scent Liquid Gel
The Finish Scent Liquid Gel is an ideal pick for anybody looking for a powerful gel to help get rid of deeply-rooted stains. It’s a tremendous alternative to traditional dishwasher powders because of the fast action and fast dissolving capabilities, as well as the deep cleaning power of the Finish Scent Liquid Gel.
This extremely powerful gel not only works fast to give your dishes a sparkling clean, but it also comes in an easy-to-pour gel formula that can be bought in either refreshing lemon or orange scents. Plus, Finish Gel is also safe to use for septic systems.
9. Cascade Complete Dishwasher Pods 
The Cascade Complete Dishwasher Pods is another astounding choice for anybody in the market for Bosch dishwasher detergents. These pods clean 24-hour stuck-on food so well that you don’t need any sort of pre-wash, which can save you up to 15 gallons of water per dishwasher load.
Furthermore, each one of these 78 pods are prepackaged with the optimal amount of detergent so no premeasuring is required, and each dissolves quickly to unleash an extremely powerful clean. Offering up 25% more cleaning power than Cascade’s Original ActionPac.
10. Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel 
Capping off our list of the 10 best detergents for Bosch dishwashers we have the Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel. This unique formula’s advanced cleaning technology is specifically designed to cut through tough greases leaving dishes streak-free and sparkling clean.
Moreover, this is one of the safer and more effective dishwashing detergents as it’s made entirely of plant-based ingredients. Meaning that it is free of synthetic fragrances, chlorine, phosphate, and dyes. Plus it’s one of the few USDA Certified 65% Bio-based natural dishwasher detergents on the market. With this specific lemon scent deriving from 100% essential oils and botanical extract.
Bosch Dishwashers FAQs
Are there Any Dishwasher Detergents to Avoid When Using a Bosch Dishwasher?
When it comes to washing dishes, most people simply assume that any dishwashing liquid or detergent will work just fine. The issue is that most conventional formulas are filled with toxic chemicals that are harmful to your health, as well as the environment. So, regardless of whether it’s a Bosch dishwasher or another brand, there are a few detergents that you should certainly avoid.
Some of these include anything by Simple Green Naturals, Palmolive, Dawn, or Clorox. Despite their clever marketing, each one of these brands carry tons of harmful chemicals such as chlorine bleach, silicate salts, glycol ethers, diethanolamine, sodium borate, and cocamide dea, to name a few.
How Should You Clean a Bosch Dishwasher?
After extended periods of use, there’s a good chance that your Bosch dishwasher is going to need a thorough scrub down. Luckily, you can use Bosch’s recommended anti-lime scale cleaner or even use vinegar and baking soda to properly clean your dishwasher. Simply add one box of cleaner (or the equivalent in vinegar and baking soda) to the bottom of your empty dishwasher, and run it on the hottest, longest cycle.
Depending on the usage, the filter for your dishwasher should be cleaned every 3-6 months. Which can be accomplished by simply taking it out, and removing the debris by running it under water with soap and a soft brush.
How Long Does a Bosch Dishwasher Last?
The general lifespan of a dishwasher is somewhat sporadic, as it will depend heavily on the brand. However, luckily when it comes down to Bosch, they carry a comprehensive range of dishwashers with an average life expectancy of about 10 years. If you only use it when you have to, and are cautious about the chemicals you put inside of it, then there’s no reason why it shouldn’t last at least this long.
What is the Best Bosch Dishwasher?
The best dishwasher is fairly dependent on the individual, as much of it will rely on things like convenience, budget, space, as well as overall performance. However, if you’re simply in search of ‘the best of the best’ in terms of Bosch dishwashers, then it has to be the Bosch 800 Series Top Control Tall Tub Pocket Handle Dishwasher.
This premium unit comes with solid capacity, as well as user-friendly operation. Featuring up to 16 place settings, 6 wash settings, a stainless-steel interior, and an extremely powerful rinse cycle. Although, it is also one of the louder dishwashers, so if this is an issue then you can certainly find better alternatives.
Final Thoughts
All in all, there are a variety of quality detergents that can be safely used with your Bosch dishwasher. However, the ones we’ve selected in this article are hands-down the best.
As you can likely already tell, the two best brands are Finish and Cascade, with the former being more effective to use for thorough cleaning, and in more diverse environments. While the latter is best used in hot water or humid temperatures in order to achieve better results.
Regardless, both brands are ideal for removing tough stains of grease and food residue, especially when it comes to Bosch dishwashers.
Jamie is the Founder of My Home Dwelling. He is a homeowner and enjoys sharing his homeowner tips with others. He has real estate experience working as a new home construction Realtor. Jamie has worked on numerous residential construction sites helping with interior and exterior renovations. He loves refinishing furniture, DIY home projects, and sharing his knowledge online.