Can You Use Pine-Sol In The Dishwasher?

Pine-Sol is a popular all-purpose cleaner that has been used for decades to clean a variety of surfaces in the home.

It’s known for its signature pine scent and its ability to clean, and disinfect.

So, the question you may be asking is, can you use Pine-Sol in your dishwasher?

Well, before you try it out, it’s important to know whether it’s safe and effective.

In this helpful guide, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of using Pine-Sol in your dishwasher.

If you are looking for a short answer, here it is:

Don’t use Pine-Sol as a dishwasher detergent. However, it can be used to clean and disinfect the interior of your dishwasher, as long as you run a rinse cycle afterwards.

First off, what exactly is Pine-Sol?

Heads up: I sometimes use affiliate links. When you click these links and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. It won’t cost you anything but it helps me to run this site.

What is Pine-Sol?

Pine-Sol is a brand of cleaning product that is owned by Clorox Company.

It was first introduced in 1929 and has since become a household name.

Pine-Sol is available in several different formulations, including Original Pine, Lemon Fresh, Lavender Clean, and more.

It’s worth noting that Pine-Sol has undergone some changes in recent years. The active ingredient is now glycolic acid. It no longer contains pine oil due to cost and limited supply.

In the next section, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using Pine-Sol in your dishwasher.

The pros and cons of using Pine-Sol in your dishwasher

Using Pine-Sol in your dishwasher can have both advantages and disadvantages.

Here’s what you need to know:

Pros

Pine-Sol is a powerful cleaning agent that can effectively remove tough stains and buildup from your dishes and dishwasher.
Pine-Sol is an effective disinfectant that can remove the bacteria that cause odors in your dishwasher.
Using Pine-Sol may be more cost-effective than purchasing commercial dishwasher cleaners.

Cons

Pine-Sol contains strong chemicals that can potentially damage the interior of your dishwasher over time.
Pine-Sol may not be safe for use with all types of dishes and materials.
The scent of Pine-Sol may linger on your dishes, which can be unpleasant for some users.
Pine-Sol should not be ingested, any residue left on dishes could be dangerous.

If I’ve turned you off using Pine-Sol in your dishwasher, don’t worry because I have two fantastic recipes for you to try instead, that all my readers love.

Check out these two posts on how to make your own natural and eco-friendly dishwasher detergent, plus a recipe for making your own dishwasher cleaner.

How to clean the interior of your dishwasher using Pine-Sol

My advice would be to avoid using Pine-Sol as a substitute dishwasher detergent.

However, if does have a use for cleaning the interior of your machine.

Here’s how to clean the inside of your dishwasher with Pine-Sol:

Empty the dishwasher. Remove all dishes and utensils from the dishwasher before starting the cleaning process.
Dilute the Pine-Sol. Follow the instructions on the Pine-Sol label to dilute the solution with water.
Apply the solution. Using a clean sponge or cloth, apply the Pine-Sol solution to the inside of the dishwasher, focusing on areas with heavy buildup.
Let it sit. Allow the Pine-Sol solution to sit for several minutes to allow it to penetrate and break down any stains or buildup.
Scrub. Use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub away any remaining buildup.
Run a rinse cycle. Once you’ve finished cleaning the inside of the dishwasher, run a rinse cycle to remove any remaining Pine-Sol solution.

Frequently asked questions

Can you use Pine-Sol in a stainless-steel dishwasher?

Yes, Pine-sol is safe to use in a stainless-steel dishwasher.

What are some alternative cleaning methods for my dishwasher?

There are several alternative cleaning methods that you can try, including the vinegar and baking soda method, the citric acid method, and commercial dishwasher cleaners.

These methods can help remove stains and buildup, as well as eliminate odors, without the potential risks associated with using Pine-Sol.

How often should I clean my dishwasher?

It’s recommended to clean your dishwasher every one to three months, depending on how frequently you use it and how dirty your dishes are.

If you notice a buildup of food particles or debris, or if your dishwasher is not cleaning your dishes effectively, it may be time to clean it more frequently.

How do I properly maintain my dishwasher?

Regular maintenance of your dishwasher can help keep it in good condition and running smoothly.

This includes cleaning the filter, wiping down the interior, checking the spray arms, and running hot water before starting a cycle.