What Natural Remedy Can Get Film Off of Glasses in the Dishwasher?

Causes

• The white or cloudy film on glassware comes from either hard-water stains or detergent residue. Calcium, lime and other mineral deposits in the water remain on the dishes after washing. As the water dries, the deposits harden and leave behind the film residue. If your home has a water softener, servicing the softener may eradicate the residue problem. Detergent that doesn't dissolve completely or rinse off entirely can also leave a cloudy residue on glassware. These residues affect all the dishes in the dishwasher, but are most noticeable on clear glass items.

Removal

• A mild acid cleaner breaks down existing film on the glasses without etching or otherwise damaging the items. Combine equal parts white vinegar and water. Soak the glassware in the vinegar solution for five minutes to break down the deposits and then wipe them with a damp cloth. Heavy buildup may require light scrubbing or a second soak to remove thoroughly. After removing the film, rinse the glassware in clear water and dry completely. Vinegar removes both hard water and detergent residue.

Dishwasher Cleaning

• Detergent and mineral buildup inside the dishwasher can cause film to develop on glassware. If the problem is new and you have not changed detergent or washing methods, the simplest remedy is to clean the dishwasher. Place two cups of plain white vinegar in the bottom of the empty dishwasher. Run the dishwasher, still empty, through a complete wash and rinse cycle. The vinegar breaks down the deposits on the inside of the machine and on the sprayers so they will no longer coat your glassware. Cleaning once every two to four weeks is usually sufficient. If you have extremely hard water, weekly cleaning may be necessary.

Prevention

• Practicing prevention can stop the film from developing in the first place. Adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your dishwasher provides a natural remedy by breaking down the deposits before they have a chance to form a residue on the glasses. Place two to four tablespoons of vinegar in the rinse cup (sometimes labeled as the Jet-Dry cup). If your dishwasher doesn't have a rinse cycle cup, open the dishwasher when the rinse cycle begins and place the vinegar in the bottom of the machine before restarting it. Drying the dishes with a soft dishtowel after washing also removes the film before it hardens.