Dishwasher tablets They're packed with substances that soften hard water, enzymes that eat up starch and protein faster than you can eat a Sunday pizza, and bleaches that won't stop at even the most stubborn stains. And let's not forget the surfactants - they make everything shine like the guy in the commercial rubbed it on.

7 alternative ways to use dishwasher tablets

1. Removing color stains from white clothes

Dishwasher tablets contain sodium percarbonate – a form of oxygen bleach – which is released into water upon contact with water hydrogen peroxideThis active ingredient is great for breaking down organic stains such as dyes from fruit, wine, coffee, and even colored clothes that have accidentally gotten into the white wash.

How to use:
Simply throw one tablet into the washing machine drum (in addition to or instead of your regular detergent). For more stubborn stains or a larger load, use two. Wash at at least 60°C – oxygen bleach is most effective at higher temperatures. Be careful with delicate fabrics, as this method is best suited for cotton and other durable materials.

2. Cleaning of garden and balcony furniture

Outdoor furniture is exposed to moisture, dust, pollen, bird droppings and other natural beauties. Dishwasher tablets contain enzymes and degreasers, which break down fats and protein deposits, and inorganic salts, which soften the water and improve the cleaning effect.

How to use:
Dissolve one to two tablets in approximately 3 litres of hot water. Pour the resulting solution into a bucket or spray bottle. Wipe the surfaces with a cloth or soft brush. For particularly stubborn dirt (e.g. on wood or plastic), leave the solution to work for 5-10 minutes, then rub. Rinse with clean water.

3. Deep cleaning of the oven

Dried-on grease, baking residue, and carbonized crumbs can ruin the look and smell of your oven. Tablets contain alkalizing ingredients, such as sodium carbonate, and enzymes, which break down proteins and carbohydrates.

How to use:
First, spray the inside of the oven with hot water or use a damp cloth to soften the dirt. Then, using gloves, take a tablet and rub it over the dirty surfaces – like a cleaning sponge. If the surface is very dirty, dissolve 1-2 tablets in a bowl of hot water and soak a sponge in this mixture. After cleaning, wipe thoroughly with a clean damp cloth.

4. Removing crayons and markers from walls and upholstered furniture

Dishwasher tablets are not only aggressive against grease and food residue, but also against waxes and pigments – making them great for cleaning children's artwork where you didn't want it.

How to use:
One tablet is sufficient for about a liter of hot water. Apply the resulting solution to the stain using a soft sponge or cloth. For painted walls, test in an inconspicuous area first - some paints are not resistant to strong cleaners. For textiles, use as little liquid as possible and blot the stain with a dry cloth after cleaning.

5. Metal polishing – from sinks to utensils

The tablets contain shine products, which ensure that dishes shine in the dishwasher. These substances also act as mild abrasives, which mechanically remove oxidation and limescale without damaging the surface.

How to use:
Dissolve half to a whole tablet in a bowl of hot water. Dip a microfiber cloth in it and rub the surface – be it a stainless steel sink, old cutlery or even decorative metal elements. Rinse if necessary and wipe dry. The effect is almost mirror-like – hence the possible “wow” effects among visitors.

6. Washing machine drum refresh

Over time, fabric softener, detergent and even mold build up in your washing machine drum – especially if you frequently wash at lower temperatures. Dishwasher tablets contain antibacterial substances and ingredients that dissolve fats and deposits.

How to use:
Every month or two, throw two tablets into the empty drum, select the highest temperature program (90-95°C) and let the machine do its thing. After the cycle, wipe the rubber and door with a damp cloth - you will be amazed at the difference. We also recommend cleaning the filter!

7. Cleaning the toilet bowl – fast, easy, effective

With the cleaning power of bleach, enzymes and scale-breakers, dishwasher tablets are a serious competitor to dedicated toilet cleaner. And yes, they work without the chemical smell that reminds you of a 90s hospital.

How to use:
Drop one tablet into the shell and let it dissolve (15-30 minutes, depending on the hardness of the water). Then scrub the shell with a brush and rinse. For an extra effect, leave the tablet to work overnight. For even more freshness, you can use an essential oil or natural air freshener after the process is complete.

Conclusion: One pill, seven areas, one less bunch of cleaners

With these seven methods, you can not only reduce the number of different cleaning products in your cupboard, but also save money and space – and feel like a household innovator in the process. Just remember: do not mix pills with medications, even if you keep them in the same cabinet.