Conventional dishwasher detergents and pods may not be as clean or healthy as one might think. They often contain harmful chemicals like phosphates, synthetic dyes, and preservatives, as well as single-use plastic. However, non-toxic dishwasher detergents are a safe and sustainable solution for those looking to reduce waste and exposure to harmful chemicals.
Natural dishwasher detergents contain non-toxic biodegradable ingredients and minimal to no harmful chemicals, making them just as effective as conventional detergents. Plus, they are eco-friendly and can be used in Energy Star Certified dishwashers, which use significantly less water and energy than hand washing. By using natural detergent solutions without harmful chemicals, one can help prolong the life of their dishwasher and reduce e-waste.
Dishing Out Our Favorite All-Natural Dishwasher Detergents
Looking for a non-toxic dishwasher detergent that won’t harm your health or the planet? Look no further than these top 10 all-natural dishwasher detergents, which are sure to leave your dishes sparkling clean without any harmful chemicals or unnecessary additives.
1. Blueland
Blueland’s all-natural dishwasher detergent is one of the best organic unscented dishwasher detergent offerings on the market. This fragrance-free dishwasher detergent tablet works hard to clean your dishes without the toxic ingredients, dyes, fragrances, or plastic in traditional dishwasher detergent. It also has no chlorine bleach, VOCs, ammonia, parabens, phthalates, or petroleum. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, soy and nut-free, EPA Safer Choice, Cradle to Cradle Certified™, Leaping Bunny certified, and MADE SAFE certified. Their refill packs come in 60, 120, or 240 tablets, and their Dishwasher Starter Set comes with a stylish reusable tin box to keep your cleaning cabinet colorful and tidy.
2. Dropps
Dropps’ natural dishwasher detergent pods are made using only natural, mineral-based ingredients and oxygen-based bleach, which clean powerfully without any harmful chemicals that interfere with human health or the environment. Plus, they’re good for any kind of water or septic system, which is why they’re often lauded as the best natural dishwasher detergent for hard water. Choose between lemon scent, rain fresh scent, or unscented.
3. etee
A little goes a long way with etee’s non-toxic dishwasher powder, which rinses clear and is guaranteed to work on your high efficiency machine. Harnessing the power of baking soda and other non-toxic biodegradable ingredients, the small scoop of the Concentrated Dishwasher Detergent will leave your whole load of dishes sparkling. And because it’s in powder form, no PVA/PVOH is needed, in either the detergent or its paper packaging, making this one of the most natural dishwasher detergent options available.
4. EcoLeaf
UK brand EcoLeaf’s dishwasher detergents are sustainably sourced from plants, making them a great choice for those looking for a natural dishwasher detergent recipe. These tablets are free from microbeads, parabens, phthalates, phosphates, SLS, triclosan, and synthetic fragrances. While they contain RSPO-certified palm oil, you can read their ethical palm policy on their website. Tablets come in a water-soluble wrapper and are designed with a built-in rinse-aid, non-grease agents, and intense cleaning action to leave your dishes sparkling clean.
5. Grove Collaborative
Grove Collaborative’s natural dishwasher detergent pods are made from plant-derived ingredients and are free from phosphates, chlorine bleach, and artificial fragrances. They come in a variety of scents, including lavender and citrus, and are packaged in a compostable pouch.
6. Puracy
Puracy’s natural dishwasher detergent packs are made from plant-based enzymes and minerals, and are free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and animal by-products. They come in a variety of scents, including green tea and lime, and are safe for septic systems.
7. Zero Co
Zero Co’s natural dishwasher detergent pods are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from phosphates, chlorine bleach, and artificial fragrances. They come in a reusable container, which you can send back to Zero Co to be refilled, reducing waste and saving you money.
8. Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation’s natural dishwasher detergent packs are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from phosphates, chlorine bleach, and artificial fragrances. They come in a variety of scents, including lemon and lavender, and are safe for septic systems.
9. VOYA
VOYA’s natural dishwasher detergent strips are a game-changer for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. These powerful washing strips are confirmed by our own testing to lighten up your next load of dishes—starting with shipping weight and ending with their formula that’s free of harmful chemicals. Plus, they’re easy to use and store, making them a great choice for those looking for a more sustainable dishwasher detergent option.
10. DIY Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent
If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at making some natural homemade dishwasher detergent for a home-cooked and cleaned meal. There are many recipes available online, using simple ingredients like baking soda, borax, and essential oils.
When selecting the best natural dishwasher detergent for your home, consider factors like price, scent, packaging, and effectiveness. By choosing a non-toxic dishwasher detergent, you can help protect your health and the environment while still getting your
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Why Choose Organic & Natural Dishwasher Detergent?
Dishwasher detergent is a household essential that many people use daily. However, most conventional dishwasher detergents contain harmful chemicals that can be toxic to both the environment and human health. Therefore, it is essential to choose a natural dishwasher detergent to avoid these harmful effects.
One of the primary reasons to choose organic and natural dishwasher detergent is to avoid harmful chemicals. Conventional dishwasher detergents contain harsh bleaching agents, grease-breaking enzymes, and surfactants that are highly toxic. Some also have low levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which are harmful to the planet and toxic to human health. In contrast, natural dishwasher detergents are made with non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both the environment and human health.
Another reason to choose organic and natural dishwasher detergent is to avoid harmful additives. Dishwasher pods also contain artificial preservatives, dyes, fragrances, binding agents, solvents, and corrosive inhibitors. These additives can cause allergic reactions, chemical sensitivities, rashes, and are likely toxic to the environment. In contrast, natural dishwasher detergents are free from these harmful additives, making them a safer option for both the environment and human health.
It is also important to avoid specific harmful ingredients in conventional dishwasher detergents. Phosphates, for example, enter the water system where they cause mineral poisoning, which kills aquatic plants and animals. Polyacrylates, on the other hand, can cause severe burns and eye damage in humans and are toxic to aquatic animals. Benzisothiazolinone is an environmental pollutant to aquatic life and a chemical that causes painful lung, skin, and eye irritation, even acute or chronic bronchitis in humans. Methylisothiazolinone is linked to allergic reactions, inhalation toxicity, allergic and possibly neurotoxicity. Artificial fragrances and dyes can cause allergies, rashes, and are proven endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. Bleach, also known as sodium hypochlorite, is corrosive to human eyes and skin, plus can cause gastric burns, throat irritation, and fluid in the lungs. Surfactants usually come from palm oil, petroleum, or even animals in conventional dishwasher detergent.
Moreover, the water-soluble film that many detergent pods come in, which is made of polyvinyl alcohol, AKA PVOH (also called PVA), is also a problem because it’s technically plastic that never fully biodegrades unless in very specific conditions—of which most water treatment plants do not meet. According to studies, 75% of PVOH goes untreated in water systems in the US from detergent pods alone, which negatively disrupts the ecosystem as it travels from drain to sea. Therefore, it is important to choose natural dishwasher detergents that do not contain PVA to minimize plastic pollution.
In conclusion, choosing organic and natural dishwasher detergent is a safer and healthier option for both the environment and human health. By avoiding harmful chemicals, additives, and ingredients, natural dishwasher detergents can help protect aquatic ecosystems, prevent allergies and chemical sensitivities, and reduce the risk of toxic exposure to humans.
How We Found The Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent
When it comes to cleaning dishes, finding a natural, non-toxic dishwasher detergent is important for both personal health and environmental impact. To determine the best options, the following criteria were considered:
Non-Toxic Formula
Many commercial dishwasher detergents contain toxic chemicals, such as phosphates, that can harm aquatic life and pollute waterways. To minimize environmental impact, the focus was on eco-friendly dishwasher detergents that use plant-based formulas that safely biodegrade. While there are currently no fully certified USDA organic dishwasher detergents, the hope is that innovation will eventually lead to more 100% organic options.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan
Products tested on animals were not considered, and animal byproducts were avoided in favor of plant-based surfactants.
Palm Oil-Free
Non-toxic dishwasher detergents were preferred to be palm oil-free, but if brands did use it, it needed to be sustainably sourced, such as RSPO certified.
Ethical Ingredient Sourcing
Brands that used ethical ingredient sourcing were given priority.
Thoughtful Packaging
Packaging that was zero waste, compostable, or reusable was preferred. At the very least, packaging needed to be recyclable and/or made of recycled materials.
Additionally, community-focused brands that give back by donating funds, products, and time to worthy endeavors were favored.
Final Thoughts On Natural, Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent
In conclusion, natural dishwasher detergents are a safer and cleaner option for cleaning dishes. By choosing products that are non-toxic, cruelty-free, palm oil-free, ethically sourced, and thoughtfully packaged, consumers can make a positive impact on both personal health and the environment. Even small eco-swaps, such as switching to a non-toxic dishwasher detergent, can make a big difference.
