You’re absolutely right—dishwasher tablets are far more versatile than just cleaning dishes! Packed with enzymes, degreasers, oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate), and citric acid, they’re powerful little cleaners that can tackle soap scum, hard water stains, grease, and grime on a variety of surfaces.
That said, they’re not a cure-all, and using them incorrectly can damage certain materials. Below are safe, effective ways to use dishwasher tablets around the house—plus important warnings to keep your home (and surfaces) safe.
✅ Smart & Safe Ways to Use Dishwasher Tablets for Cleaning
1. Revive Stained or Yellowed Tupperware & Plastic Containers
- How: Dissolve 1 tablet in warm water. Soak containers for 1–2 hours (or overnight for tough stains).
- Why it works: Oxygen bleach in the tablet breaks down food stains and odors without harsh scrubbing.
2. Clean the Garbage Can (Indoor or Outdoor)
- How: Fill the can with warm water, drop in a crushed tablet, and let sit 30–60 minutes. Scrub and rinse.
- Result: Eliminates odors, grease, and sticky residue.
3. Refresh the Washing Machine

