As of July 1, 2010, manufacturers of automatic dishwasher products are now producing phosphate-free product.

At least 16 states have now banned use of automatic dishwasher products containing phosphates (except for trace amounts). Phosphates boosted the cleaning power of the detergents and helped eliminate streaks and hard-water deposits, but also act as a fertilizer when entering the water supply. Too much phosphorus causes overgrowth of algae and other plants. When these plants decompose, the oxygen needed by fish and other water life is compromised reducing water quality.

The product container may look just like the original with no mention of being phosphate-free. Although new formulas have been developed that clean much better than the original non-phosphate detergents, consumers could still see a marked difference.

Dishes/glassware may have residual cloudiness or may simply be noticeably less clean with the same dishwasher and amount of detergent. In a dishwasher that has been performing well, but now uses a low/no phosphate product, the issue is unlikely to be a problem with the dishwasher. (ALL manufacturing in the U.S. of automatic dishwashing product became phosphate free as of July 1, 2010.)

Current recommendations:

1. Use "Extra Rinse" option.
2. Test for "hard water". May need to use a water softener based on test results.
3. Increase the amount of rinse aid. Rinse aid is recommended for automatic dishwashers.

Information from a major soap manufacturer.

1. When loading your dishwasher, make sure no items are blocking the dishwasher sprayer arms.
2. Try running your dishwasher when no other water is being used - like showers, grass watering, laundry machine. This will ensure that the dishwasher is getting enough water.
3. Run hot water at the kitchen sink for a few minutes to be sure you have hot water for the first water fill. You will get the best results if water is above 120 degrees F.
4. Store your detergent in a cool, dry area to avoid moisture from causing lumps. Do not store under the sink since this environment is usually warm, especially if it's near the dishwasher.
5. For hard water areas, add extra detergent (if necessary) to counter the minerals in the water.
6. If you're using Cascade ActionPacs or Power Tabs, try placing them in the cutlery basket or the bottom of the dishwasher instead of inside the dispenser cup.
7. To correct a wash load that has granules or residue, rewash the dishes using the tips above. 

US Manufacturers Statement Release: White film forms on glassware when using phosphate-free dishwasher detergents

1. Pour the citric acid in the detergent cup and close the cover.
2. Place the filmed, but otherwise clean, glassware and dishware in the dishwasher.  
3. Leave silverware and other metal items out of the dishwasher.  
4. Turn the dishwasher on and let it run through a complete cycle without detergent.
5. The glassware, dishware and dishwasher should come out film free and with a sparkle.  

The use of a rinse agent such as Cascade Crystal Clear may help minimize a repeat build up of film.  The automatic dishwasher detergent manufacturers are working to eliminate the phosphate free filming problem. However, the problem will likely be with us for some time. Therefore, dishwasher owners may have to repeat the citric acid rinse several times a year, especially if they are using a lower performing detergent brand or are using the dishwasher without a rinse agent.