Abstract: A detergent paste for use in dishwashers comprised of a pasty, thixotropic cleaning agent with a viscosity of at least 30 Pa.s at 20.degree. C. as determined with a rotational viscosimeter at a spindle speed of 5 revolutions per minute and(A) essentially a mixture of hydrated sodium tripolyphosphate and hydrated sodium metasilicate in the form of sodium tripolyphosphate hexahydrate and sodium metasilicate pentahydrate as finely ground substances having an average particle size of less than 0.3 mm,(B) an optional active chlorine compound and(C) a thickening agent compatible therewith for example foliated silicates of the hectorite type and a method of washing dishes in a dishwasher.