How CLR Works

• CLR is a mildly acidic solution that is gentle enough that it won't damage your pipes or your dishwasher but strong enough that it will dissolve calcium, lime and rust stains. All three stains are alkaline. When the acid hits the alkaline stain, it will neutralize it and pull it from the dishwasher surface.
  
  

Using CLR

• Use CLR in your dishwasher once you notice that calcium and lime are building up inside it or if you begin to see rust develop. To use it, run the empty machine without detergent until it hits the main wash cycle. This is when the machine is full of water and is about to agitate. Open the dishwasher and add a 1/2 cup of CLR. Close the dishwasher and continue the cycle.
  
  

Rinsing the Dishwasher

• CLR residue shouldn't ever get onto your dishes. Because of this, the manufacturer recommends rinsing the dishwasher fully before you put any dishes or glasses in it. To do this, simply run the machine empty without any detergent. Let it complete its cycle before using the dishwasher to clean dishes.
  
  

Precautions

• CLR will not damage your dishwasher, but it may damage some surfaces in your home. When you are using it to clean your dishwasher, never place the bottle on your natural stone counters or floors and clean up any spills immediately. CLR will etch natural stone. Etching will require you to refinish the stone. Avoid this by keeping it away from these surfaces.