Salts are probably the most used chemical compounds in our homes. In case you didn’t know, both dishwasher salt and table salt contain sodium chloride.
We know some of you are wondering, “Why would I ever put salt in my dishwasher? I want my dishes cleaned. Not coated and tasting like salt.”
Please continue reading to find out why.
Why should I use dishwasher salt?
Tell us. How many times have you tried cleaning your dishes only for them to be partially uncleaned?
Sometimes the detergent and water alone aren’t enough to wash your dishes and leave them sparkling clean.
Adding dishwasher salt will further enhance the cleaning process. In addition to that, it will also improve the performance of your dishwasher.
Have you ever heard of limescale?
It’s a chalky, white, ugly-looking, and hard-to-remove stain deposited on and around water points like sink basins and faucets, showerheads, bathroom tiles, dishwashers, and toilet seats.
Limescale is usually a result of using hard water in your home.
Did you know that the water in Missoula is very hard and isn’t recommended for household use?
The dishwasher salt also prevents the buildup of limescale in your dishwasher.
If left untreated, limescale will compromise your dishwasher’s efficiency.
Dishwasher salts function in a similar way to the salts in water softening systems.
In case you didn’t know, most of the dishwashers in Missoula have a softening system.
The dishwasher salt provides sodium ions to the resins in the softening system. The now sodium-charged resins will work to attract and remove the limescale ions from your cleaning water.
Here is where you can buy dishwasher salt in Missoula, Montana
We’ve done our research to present to you the best and most reliable places you can buy dishwasher salt in Missoula, according to your type of dishwasher.
1. Home Depot- 2725 Radio Way, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
Home Depot is a one-stop home improvement store that has everything you need. It’s usually open from around 6 PM and closes at 9 PM.
2. Best Buy- 2640 N Reserve St Ste 4, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
Another popular appliance store you can visit for dishwasher salt that is compatible with your dishwasher. They usually open from 11 AM to around 7 PM.
3. Fred’s Appliance- 4949 Buckhouse Ln, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
It’s not the cheapest store, but they offer the best services and customer support you’d want from an appliance store. They’re usually open from around 9 AM to 7 PM.
4. Montana Ace- Trempers Shopping Center, 2301 Brooks Street, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
Montana Ace is the highest rated store on this list. Also not the cheapest, but their products and services are worth the mention. They’re usually open from around 7 AM to 9 PM.
5. Lowe’s Home Improvement- 3100 N Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59808, United States
The prices here are slightly friendly compared to the other stores. They’re usually open from around 6 AM to 9 PM.
How much dishwasher salt should I pour into my dishwasher?
There is no need to worry. Almost all dishwashers have an indicator light that will let you know when the levels are running low.
You might have to check your manufacturer’s manual to know what the light means.
However, most of the time, if the light is on, then the salt levels are fine, and the dishwasher should be able to clean another load of dishes before another refill.
Is it safe to use table salt?
No. Table salt will not be as efficient as dishwasher salt. This is because its particles are too fine and might end up clogging your dishwasher’s drain system.
The granules of dishwasher salt are larger and are less likely to clog the appliance.
Also, dishwasher salt is 100% sodium chloride. On the other hand, table salt contains additives that will tamper with the dishwasher’s mechanical system. In addition to that, the use of table salt might also increase limescale production.
Will the dishwasher salt deposit on my dishes?
Some people are afraid that the dishwasher salt will deposit and remain on their dishes even after the cleaning process. They’re worried that the salt will stain or even leave a salty taste on their dishes.
Is that true?
No. That’s not the case.
The dishwasher salt doesn’t even enter the dish compartment. All it does is flow in the softening system before it’s drained at the end of the cleaning cycle.
How to refill dishwasher salt
So, you’ve now bought your dishwasher salt and are wondering how to fill it into your dishwasher. Don’t worry. We’ve got you.
We’re going to tell you how to successfully refill dishwasher salt without harming your dishwasher.
Here are some of the items you’ll need for this operation:
- A funnel.
- A measuring cup.
Step 1
Locate the dishwasher compartment on your appliance. You’re most likely to find it at the base of your machine.
You still can’t find it? Then, take a look at the manufacturer’s manual.
Step 2
Take a moment and go through the instructions written on the saltbox. Those instructions will guide you on how much dishwasher salt you’re supposed to pour into your appliance.
Step 3
Open the compartment, put the funnel in place, then go ahead and measure the amount you’re supposed to fill in.
Next, pour the dishwasher salt into the compartment.
Step 4
Close the compartment, then go ahead and run a cycle without dishes.
Running an empty cycle will help get rid of any leftover dirt and salt residue.
You’re now clear to wash your dishes and don’t have to worry about limescale deposits.
Yes, refilling a dishwasher with dishwasher salt is that easy.
A bit of friendly advice: The water in Missoula is noticeably hard. Installing a whole-house water softening system will do so much good, not only for your dishwasher but also for your health.
