I use either Finish or Morning Fresh powder (whichever is on special when I need to buy it). I use the Finish RinseAid and fill it up when the dishwasher tells me (a little light comes on). I never rinse, dishes just go straight in. To avoid the white powdery stuff, use a good quality powder/tablet and rinseaid. As for cleaning, I also use one of those Finish bottles that you chuck in and run the dishwasher empty.