Hi Derek. We appreciate you giving Cascade Complete Gel Dishwasher Detergent a try, and we&#39;re sorry it didn&#39;t perform as well for you as our action pacs. Our automatic dishwasher detergents are formulated to provide the best cleaning possible. However, we do know hard water and other factors may sometimes affect cleaning performance. Following are some helpful tips for best results from your dishwasher:<br />1. Be sure your water is at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit/49 degrees Celsius.<br />2. We recommend you run your kitchen tap before you start your dishwasher, so the water goes in HOT. <br />3. Run your dishwasher when there are no other water supplies running like the washing machine or the shower. This way you’ll have full water fill and pressure. <br />4. When loading the machine, be sure all items will get the full spray and that your spray arms aren’t blocked. <br />5. Use the Cascade product within a few months of buying it: keep only a maximum of 2 packages on hand at all time – one in use and one in storage.<br />6. Store Cascade in a cool, dry place. Under the sink is handy, but it’s often too warm and humid, especially if it&#39;s near the dishwasher.<br /><br />If this doesn&#39;t help, we hope you&#39;ll give us a call at (800) 765-5516. We&#39;re happy to learn more and see how we can best assist.