Dishwashing detergent that works without corroding

[USAmma]

We've had 2 dishwashers in 7 years. The first came with the house and was cheap but new. The second one was bought 2 years ago and was not so cheap. Both of them have broken and had water leaking out around the bottom. The repairman said its due to hard water, and also corrosion from dishwashing detergents. The corrosion is very obvious because the baskets are already rusty. I thought this dishwasher would last much longer.

So . . we are saving up for yet another dishwasher. I want to do it right this time. I need to find a dishwashing detergent that won't destroy the dishwasher over time. I have tried the Trader Joe's brand and it just does not work well at all. It leaves spots and residue all over everything. My detergent of choice was Cascade but I have learned that it is also one of the worst as far as corrosion.

Can you recommend a detergent that I can buy locally that works but is not corrosive? What about Palmolive or one of those brands? Thanks!

[Amydoula]

Seventh Generation powder, Citrasol powder or Sun and Earth Tabs. SG and
C I can only get at the co-op (rural livin' here) but S &E they sell right in the local groccery store in the regular detergent section.

Amy

[midwestmom]

I just got the Sun and Earth tabs and I love 'em!!!!

[USAmma]

Thank you!

[marasmum]

Hmmm... If the corrosion is due to hard water, have you considered getting a water softener? Just a thought.
Also, I have been reading a book from the library entitled: "Green Clean" (Mason Hunter and Halpin) and there was a recipe in it for automatic dishwasher maintanance:
"Keep the dishwasher clean by putting a cup of white vinegar in the detergent reservoir and running an empty cycle every week or two."

I have not experienced dishwasher corrosion, but I have with my coffee maker and vinegar helps with that.

HTH!
Laura