I use blue Dawn. I have a hint/tip. I had an experience when we were ready to sit down for a holiday dinner and someone spilled a glass of milk. It was at a crack where the leaves were and so milk got underneath the pads and the table had to be taken apart and dry towels put underneath. Ever since then I put a heavy weight clear plastic cover under the table pads. The advantage is that after everyone leaves, I take a toothbrush and Dawn to the spots. Then I throw it into the washing machine with lots of cold water (not high efficiency) and let it soak overnight. ALL the spots come out - and without bleach. I love Dawn.