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Cascade Platinum ActionPacs with Dawn is the strongest overall option in Consumer Reports’ May 2026 tests of dishwasher packs and gels. That result is not a grease-only ranking: the published test measures baked-on food cleaning, film and discoloration, and water spots. For greasy dishes, it is a useful overall pick, but detergent format, dosing, water conditions and the dishwasher’s wash cycle also affect results.
What the detergent tests say about grease
Consumer Reports’ test engineers apply measured starchy soil to plates, bake it on, then wash the plates on a normal cycle. Imaging analysis assesses cleaning and water spots; repeated cycles in hard water check film and spotting. Those measures provide evidence about difficult food removal and residue, but the description does not report a separate score for grease removal. The May 8, 2026 report covers nearly 30 detergents, with tested prices ranging from 7 to 57 cents per load; that is the price spread for the tested set, not a measure of grease performance. Consumer Reports’ test results and methodology
Surfactants help remove and emulsify oil-based soils such as cooking fat, according to a technical report from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. But the full formula and conditions matter: the presence of one advertised ingredient alone does not establish that a detergent will outperform alternatives. European Commission Joint Research Centre report on dishwasher detergent ingredients
Dishwasher detergents to compare
These are Consumer Reports’ findings from its May 2026 evaluation of packs and gels. Its general cleaning and residue results should not be read as a direct comparison of grease-only removal.
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- No pre-wash needed, powers away stuck-on food
- Gel formulated with the grease-fighting power of Dawn
- Pure Rinse Formula rinses cleanly away
- Citrus Breeze Scent
- Also available in Powder and ActionPacs
| Detergent | What Consumer Reports found | Why consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Cascade Platinum ActionPacs with Dawn | Its most effective detergent among the packs and gels tested; praised for cleaning and resistance to film, discoloration and water spots. | Strongest overall choice in this test, though no separate grease score was reported. |
| Finish Powerball Ultimate | Above-average results, including cleaning and resistance to film and mineral deposits. | An alternative to compare against the top overall performer. |
| Presto! Triple Action Dishwasher Pacs | Performed well in cleaning, film resistance and water spots; described as less expensive. | A lower-cost pack option to check by price per load. |
| Great Value Dishwasher Gel | Consumer Reports’ top-rated gel, with good cleaning and film resistance. | A gel option for people who prefer that format. |
Consumer Reports says packs generally outperformed most gels in cleaning in its tests, while a good gel may be sufficient with a capable dishwasher and lighter soil loads. Its buying guide frames the choice around which detergent works best in your dishwasher. Consumer Reports’ dishwasher detergent buying guide
How to choose for greasy dishes
- Compare cleaning and residue results. Look for reported food-cleaning performance alongside film, discoloration and water-spot control; those indicators are relevant to the overall result, but not a grease-only guarantee.
- Choose a format that fits your load and machine. Packs are a sensible starting point based on the test’s general pattern. Gel can be a reasonable choice for lighter soil loads when the dishwasher performs well.
- Check cost per load, not just package price. The May 2026 test’s 7-to-57-cent range applies only to its tested products. Consumer Reports notes that less costly store brands can perform well, so the highest price is not automatically necessary.
- Follow the current product label. Verify directions and price per load when buying, since package details and prices can change.
If dishes still feel greasy
A persistent greasy film does not by itself prove that the detergent is the problem. The result depends on the detergent formula, dishwasher, water conditions and wash cycle. Check that you are following the product’s dosing instructions and consider whether the load or wash conditions differ from the test’s normal-cycle setup; the available test evidence does not diagnose a particular machine or establish a single cause.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- NUMBER ONE: Finish is the #1 Auto Dishwashing Global Brand1
- ADVANCED DISHWASHER PODS: Unleash the Quantum Leap with Finish Quantum dishwasher tabs that deliver 2X GREASE FIGHTING POWER*, making them powerful dishwasher detergent pods.
- POWERFUL DISHWASHER DETERGENT: Tackle 24 HOUR DRIED-ON STAINS and stuck-on-food with these Finish dishwasher pods.
- VIRTUALLY SPOT-FREE SHINE: Unlock the power of Finish Quantum’s 3 fast dissolving chambers to enjoy a virtually spot-free shine on your dishes —from delicate wine glasses to sturdy stainless-steel pans.
- SKIP THE RINSE: Save time and water with these dish pods, specially formulated to break down tough food residues without the need for pre-rinsing. Save up to 20 gallons of water per load by skipping the rinse step.
Rank #4
- Advanced dishwasher gel cuts through grease leaving dishes streak-free and sparkling clean
- Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Liquid Gel has a safe* and effective formula made with plant-based ingredients
- Our dishwasher soap gel is free of synthetic fragrances, dye, chlorine or phosphate
- This dishwasher detergent gel is a USDA Certified Biobased Product 65%
- Lemon scent in our dishwasher liquid gel is derived from 100% essential oils and botanical extract
Rank #3
- Formulated with biobased* and other thoughtfully selected ingredients. *45% biobased ingredients
- More tough food-cleaning ingredients (vs. Cascade Original Gel)
- No Chlorine Bleach. No Phosphates. No Heavy Perfumes.
- Powers Away 24 Hr. Stuck on Food
- Use with Cascade Power Dry Rinse Aid and Cascade Dishwasher Cleaner for our best clean
Rank #2
- 2X CLEANING POWER: Cascade Platinum Gel has 2X the Cleaning Power* of Cascade Complete gel and is formulated with the grease-fighting power of Dawn *on starch & protein soils vs. Cascade Complete Gel
- REMOVES UP TO 99% OF STUCK ON FOOD: Cascade Platinum Gel removes up to 99% of stuck on food
- ALL-IN-ONE CLEAN: Cascade Platinum Gel Gives you an all-in-one clean: it pre-treats, cleans and shines
- FORMULATED WITH THE POWER OF DAWN: Cascade is the only dishwasher detergent formulated with the grease fighting power of Dawn dish soap.
- EASY TO USE: Dispense into dishwasher with easy to pour spout and pre-treat directly onto stuck-on messes. For an advanced clean, Use with Cascade Clean & Dry Booster Rinse Aid for 5X drying and spot prevention and Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Cleaner.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
