The Cascade Gel packs still have about 7% phosphorus in them, which is a good amount. But they are expensive, nearly 50% more expensive per load or more than with the usual powder (I think). Still, I like the gel packs because they are so easy to administer. No pouring of the powder and guessing if it's the right amount or not, and no overflows. The gel packs also clean quite well, IMHO.
I checked our local Costco for the Cascade powder, as well, and it's phosphate free. Darn.
I'll be checking the local Mexican grocery to see if they still have phosphated DW detergent. Last time I checked it also had chlorine bleach, but that was a few years back.
I might have to check out the restaurant supply places as well. A local cash and carry, which carried phosphated laundry detergent, has apparently gone out of business (or changed locations).
I didn't expect the phosphate free fad to hit California shelves so quickly. I would have stocked up more. I have a small stock of powdered Cascade (two extra boxes) and an earlier purchase of the Kirkland dw powder (two more boxes). But the Kirkland stuff smells bad in my Bosch. Might be good in the classic Hobart Kitchenaids, though. I will resist buying any of the Cascade phosphate free powder until everything else runs out...
