Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner Review: The Secret to Spotless Dishes

Tired of residue and odors in your machine? Our Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner review reveals if it’s the secret to getting truly spotless dishes.

Explained

Your Dishwasher Isn't Self-Cleaning

That funky smell and the white film on your glasses aren't your detergent's fault; it's your dishwasher crying for help.

Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner is a once-a-month tablet designed to scrub the parts of your dishwasher you can’t see, like the pump, tub, and hoses. It’s a simple, set-and-forget solution for anyone dealing with hard water buildup, lingering odors, or a general decline in cleaning performance.

Why it stands out
  • OEM Recommended Marketed as a ‘Genuine Replacement Part’ (W10282479), this cleaner is often recommended by dishwasher manufacturers like Whirlpool and Maytag, adding a layer of trust.
  • Targets Hidden Grime Unlike detergents, Affresh is specifically formulated to dissolve limescale and mineral deposits in the pump, spray arms, and hoses, which are the primary culprits of poor performance.
  • Simple Monthly Routine Just toss one of the six tablets into an empty dishwasher and run a normal cycle once a month. The 6-tablet pack provides a convenient 6-month supply.
  • Noticeable Odor Elimination It’s highly effective at destroying the odor-causing bacteria that thrives on trapped food particles, leaving the machine smelling neutral and fresh, not perfumed.
Product Name Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner
ASIN B002R0DXQE
Form Factor Tablet
Quantity 6 Tablets
Usage Frequency Monthly (6-Month Supply)
Manufacturer Model # W10282479
Replaces Part Number 18001059
Targeted Issues Limescale, Mineral Deposits, Grime, Odor
Application Area Pump, Tub, Hoses, Filter
Best for
Households with hard water causing mineral buildup. Owners of older dishwashers experiencing a decline in performance. Anyone noticing persistent musty or sour odors from their dishwasher.
Not for
Daily dishwashing (this is a machine cleaner, not a detergent). Users looking for a scented, 'fresh' smelling cleaning product.
Pros
  • Visibly improves cleaning performance, reducing spots on glassware.
  • Effectively removes musty odors from the machine interior.
  • Extremely easy to use: just one tablet in an empty cycle.
  • Recommended by major dishwasher manufacturers, ensuring compatibility.
  • Breaks down stubborn limescale and hard water buildup.
Cons
  • Requires running an empty cycle, which uses water and electricity.
  • Scent is neutral/chemical, not a fresh ‘lemon’ or ‘citrus’ fragrance some users prefer.
  • May require two tablets for the first cleaning of a heavily soiled machine.
What to look for

Choosing the right Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

  1. Form Factor
    High
    Cleaners come as tablets, powders, or liquids. Tablets are the most convenient and pre-measured.
    Look for
    Tablets for ease of use and no-mess application.
    Avoid
    Messy powders or liquids that require careful measuring.
  2. Active Ingredients
    High
    The cleaner's formula determines what it targets. Some are for grease, others for mineral buildup.
    Look for
    Formulas with citric acid or other agents designed to break down limescale and mineral deposits from hard water.
    Avoid
    Cleaners that are just repackaged bleach, which can damage some internal components.
  3. Scent
    Medium
    Some cleaners leave a strong fragrance, while others aim for a neutral, clean scent.
    Look for
    Products that focus on eliminating odor-causing residue rather than just masking it with perfumes.
    Avoid
    Overpowering scents that can linger on dishes in subsequent cycles.
  4. Manufacturer Approval
    Medium
    Using a cleaner recommended by your dishwasher's manufacturer can provide peace of mind.
    Look for
    Cleaners explicitly mentioned in your appliance manual or on the manufacturer's website.
    Avoid
    Harsh, uncertified chemicals that could potentially void your appliance's warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions

Can I use this with dishes in the dishwasher?

No. Affresh is designed to clean the dishwasher itself. You should place one tablet in the bottom of an empty dishwasher and run a normal cycle to clean the internal components like the pump, hoses, and tub.

How often should I use Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner?

For best results and to maintain performance, it’s recommended to use one tablet once a month. The package contains a 6-month supply, making it easy to stick to a regular maintenance schedule.

Will this fix the white film on my glasses?

Yes, it often helps significantly. The white film is typically caused by mineral deposits from hard water building up inside your machine’s pipes and spray arms. By cleaning out this buildup, Affresh allows your dishwasher to rinse more effectively, reducing film on your dishes.

Is Affresh safe for stainless steel tubs and septic systems?

Yes, Affresh is formulated to be safe for all dishwasher models, including those with stainless steel tubs. It is also safe for septic systems when used as directed.

Our Verdict

Affresh is a brilliantly effective and simple solution to a problem many dishwasher owners don’t realize they have. While it requires an empty cycle, the noticeable improvement in cleaning performance and odor elimination makes it a worthwhile monthly ritual. It’s the best set-and-forget way to keep your dishwasher running like new.

BUY NOW
Excellent 9.2 / 10
Essential Maintenance
Monthly Maintenance Hard Water Solution Odor Eliminator OEM Recommended
Conclusion
  • Deep cleans hidden parts like the pump, hoses, and filter.
  • Specifically formulated to dissolve limescale and mineral buildup.
  • Simple monthly tablet application for a 6-month supply per pack.

For anyone battling hard water spots, funky smells, or just a general decline in their dishwasher’s power, Affresh is a non-negotiable monthly purchase. It’s a simple, affordable, and highly effective way to maintain one of your kitchen’s most important appliances. Buy it to restore and maintain your machine’s performance.