Lori L, the least expensive way is to put a cup of vinegar on the top rack and then run the dishwasher. If it is especially untidy, then do it again. It works.

I will try this tip tomorrow.

Borox. Buy a box in the laundry detergent area at store. Borox has many uses,check the back of box for ideas,says to put some borox powder right on bottom of dishwasher tub,then run load as usual.Helps w/ hard water spots.

A plumber told us to pour a bottle (jar) of TANG in the dishwasher. It has something in it that will eat the hard water deposit and will clean the drain really good. Tried it and it works.

You can use a cup of lemon juice and run a cycle w/o the detergent, I have well water and it works great and is cheap.:)

vinegar

Lemi Shine for hard water. I had the same problem and tried everything but Lemi shine worked

The best solution is in the grocery store aisle- Dish washer cleaner. Buy two and do it twice- clean out the gunk each time.