Sparkling clean glassware may make this extra purchase worth it.
What Is Hard Water?
Hard water can also cause limescale buildup on your utensils and appliance.

Credit: Hero Images/Getty Images
Your local water utility likely provides reports indicating the hardness or softness of the water.
How Dishwasher Salt Works?
Dishwasher salt counteracts hard water.

Credit: Kuzmik_A/Getty Images
with the calcium and magnesium in the water, making them harmless.
This “softening” process results in cleaner dishes, a longer-lasting dishwasher, and spot-free glassware.
An older dishwasher may not have a reservoir for dishwasher salt.
Use it instead of your usual detergent each time you run a load.
An older appliance may have a float indicator that will clue you in when you’re running low.
Can You Use Table Salt In The Dishwasher?
Tell your family not to add table salt to the dishwasher to prevent additional problems.
Though both include sodium chloride, the fine grains of table salt can cause clogging and residue.
U.S. Geological Survey.Hardness of water.