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This comprehensive guide to non-toxic dishwasher detergents is perfect for anyone who’s ready to reduce or limit the amount of harmful chemicals in their kitchen while still getting sparkling-clean dishes – the natural way!

Have you ever opened the dishwasher mid-cycle, or maybe just as the wash cycle has finished to be met with a burst of steam to the face? I’ve definitely done it a time or two.
While you might think that puff of steam is totally harmless, you could actually be letting loose a cloud of toxic chemicals right into your kitchen if you aren’t using a non-toxic dishwasher detergent.
Chances are you haven’t given a whole lot of thought to those innocent-looking scoops of powder or dishwasher pods you use every day. I know I certainly didn’t!
However, after digging deep into the world of dishwasher detergents, I uncovered there is a pretty complex history surrounding the chemicals that most manufacturers use.
In 2010, a wave of change swept through the industry when seventeen states banned phosphates in household cleaning products since it is known to cause harm to aquatic life. On the surface this sounds like great news, right? But as always, there is more to this story.
In the race to remove phosphates, many companies simply replaced them with a bunch of other toxic chemicals. Ethoxylated surfactants, polyacrylates, and benzisothiazolinone – a bunch of unpronounceable ingredients that don’t mean much to the average consumer.
But these new additions were far from harmless. Ethoxylated surfactants can be contaminated with carcinogens like 1,4-dioxane, while polyacrylates are linked to respiratory system damage, and benzisothiazolinone is a known skin and lung irritant. And these are just the tip of the iceberg.
You might be thinking, “Well I’m not eating my dishwasher detergent, so what’s the big deal?” Here’s why you should be concerned.
These chemicals don’t just disappear when the dishwashing cycle ends. They can leave residues on your dishes, exposing you and your loved ones to potential health risks with every meal.
Just thinking about all of the toxic chemicals I could be potentially consuming with every bite had me urgently searching for safer alternatives.
However, finding an effective non-toxic dishwasher detergent proved more challenging than I expected. Many natural options either left dishes dirty or coated them with an unappealing white residue.
However, after extensive research, I discovered 10 non-toxic dishwasher detergents that combine safe, healthy ingredients with impressive cleaning power.
Along the way, I also experimented with making my own DIY dishwasher detergents—with surprisingly good results.
I created this guide to share all of my findings all in one place to help you navigate the maze of misleading marketing claims and hidden toxins.
It’s everything I wish I had known from the start, to help you make informed decisions about the best detergent for you whether it’s homemade or store-bought. Let’s get into it!
The 5 Most Toxic Ingredients In Most Dishwasher Detergents
1. Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
Formaldehyde-releasing agents, such as DMDM hydantoin and bronopol, are used as preservatives in dishwasher detergents to extend shelf life and prevent bacterial growth.
However, these chemicals can release small amounts of formaldehyde over time, which is a known carcinogen.
Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to various types of cancer, including leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer. Chronic exposure may also lead to neurological effects and immune system damage.
2. Ethoxylated Ingredients
Ethoxylated ingredients, such as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), are used as surfactants in dishwasher detergents to help remove grease and grime.
To make these ingredients, the ethoxylation process can lead to contamination with two toxic byproducts:
- 1,4-dioxane is a probable human carcinogen, linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and other cancers.
- Ethylene oxide is another known human carcinogen and has been associated with an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma.
Additionally, NPEs are known endocrine disruptors, leading to developmental and reproductive issues, as well as an increased risk of certain hormone-related cancers.
3. Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals often used in dishwasher detergents as fragrance stabilizers and to enhance product performance.
The problem with phthalates is that they are also known as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to a wide range of health issues including:
- Reproductive and developmental toxicity, including decreased sperm count and fertility issues.
- Increased risk of asthma and allergies in children, as well as neurodevelopmental disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
4. Polyethylene Glycol Compounds (PEGs)
Polyethylene glycol compounds, or PEGs, are petroleum-derived ingredients used as surfactants and emulsifiers in dishwasher detergents.
The main concern with PEGs is that they can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane during the manufacturing process.
As mentioned earlier, both ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane are carcinogenic and can lead to serious health issues with long-term exposure.
5. Isothiazolinone Preservatives
Isothiazolinone preservatives, such as methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and benzisothiazolinone (BIT), are used to prevent bacterial growth in dishwasher detergents.
However, these chemicals are potent skin and respiratory irritants and can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Exposure to isothiazolinones has been linked to:
- Contact dermatitis
- Skin rashes
- Even chemical burns in extreme cases
These preservatives can also trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory issues, particularly in people with pre-existing conditions.
And keep in mind that these are just the 5 most toxic ingredients found in dishwasher detergents, the list is longer (much longer!).
Exposure Routes For Toxic Detergent Chemicals
So, now we know that modern dishwasher detergents are filled with potentially harmful chemicals. But how can these toxic chemicals affect our health? There are two main routes of exposure – and they’re both happening right under our noses.
Through the Steam
When your dishwasher runs, it heats water to high temperatures, causing some of the detergent chemicals to vaporize. These invisible fumes can then escape when you open the door, lingering in your kitchen air.
Toxic Residues Left Behind After the Final Rinse
But the steam isn’t the only way you might be ingesting these chemicals.
When you unload your dishwasher, do your plates ever feel slick or sticky? That’s often a sign that your dishwasher detergent has left behind a chemical residue, even after the final rinse.
And those toxic residues don’t just stay on the surface of your dishes. When you eat off of a plate or sip from a glass, you’re ingesting trace amounts of those toxic chemicals.
And it’s not just about what goes in your mouth. Your skin can absorb chemicals too, especially when they’re dissolved in hot water or food oils.
Daily Exposure Adds Up
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, but it’s just a tiny bit each time. How bad can it be?” The problem is, these small exposures add up to a big problem over time.
Think about how many times you load and unload your dishwasher each week. Now multiply that by the number of weeks in a year. Over time, this chronic, low-level exposure can take a toll on your health.
Studies have linked many of the toxic chemicals found in dishwasher detergents to allergies, respiratory irritation, hormone disruption, and even cancer. And while the doses from dishwasher detergent might be small, they’re part of a much bigger picture.
We’re exposed to toxins from countless sources each day – from the food we eat to the air we breathe. Our bodies can only handle so much before the burden becomes too great.
That’s why making small changes, like making your own laundry detergent or switching to a store-bought non-toxic dishwasher detergent, can be so powerful.
By reducing your exposure in one area, you’re giving your body a little more room to breathe.

10 Best Store-Bought Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergents
We love MamaSuds biodegradable Automatic Dishwasher Powder because it’s rated ‘A’ by EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning, and is made with safe, eco-friendly ingredients like non-GMO citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium percarbonate.
Free from harmful chemicals, MamaSuds Automatic Dishwasher Powder effectively removes grease and sticky residues while being gentle on your dishes and the environment.
It’s septic-safe and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny and vegan by PETA.
To ensure optimal performance with your water quality, Mama Suds offers 5-ounce refundable sample bags for you to test before committing to a larger purchase.
price
$23
ingredients
Non-GMO citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, sodium percarbonate & sodium carbonate
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada, Cyprus & Hong Kong
Butter Me Up Organics is delivering the ultimate in chemical-free cleaning with their handcrafted, All Natural Dishwasher Soap.
This concentrated formula harnesses the power of just four simple ingredients: washing soda, kosher salt, sodium borate, and non-GMO citric acid, all of which are organic and completely safe for consumption.
Packaged with the environment in mind, Butter Me Up Organics is a zero-waste company that upcycles materials whenever possible.
A little goes a long way – just one tablespoon is enough for a standard load, giving you long-lasting value.
Price
$13.75
ingredients
Washing soda, kosher salt, sodium borate & non-GMO citric acid
Location/Shipping
United States, ships to select international countries
Earthley Wellness’s Dishwasher Detergent combines the natural strength of washing soda, baking soda, citric acid, and saponified oils to leave your dishes sparkling clean without the use of any harsh chemicals.
It’s free from sulfates, fragrances, phosphates, petrochemicals, preservatives, formaldehyde, chlorine, and ammonia.
Instead, it relies on the power of pure, all-natural ingredients to deliver an eco-friendly clean you can trust.
Their formula is also septic-safe, biodegradable, and comes with over 60 loads of pure cleaning power.
We recommend the unscented formulate, but it does come in three delightful scents including eucalyptus spearmint, grapefruit, and lemon-thyme.
price
$23.99
ingredients
Citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, saponified organic coconut oil, saponified organic extra-virgin olive oil, saponified organic castor oil & filtered water
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
AspenClean’s Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Pods were voted Best Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Pods by Good Housekeeping. And that’s a name we trust!
These unscented pods harness the natural strength of oxygen bleach, enzymes, and mineral-based ingredients to leave your dishes sparkling clean without the use of harmful chemicals.
Free from synthetic fragrances, chlorine, SLS, and phosphates, AspenClean’s dishwasher pods are EWG-Verified and hypoallergenic, great for anyone with chemical sensitivities.
AspenClean goes the extra mile by packaging their dishwasher pods in a zero-plastic and they come in a 100% recycled paper container.
price
$19.99
ingredients
Sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, sodium carbonate peroxide, sodium sulfate, sodium silicate, decyl glucoside, subtilisin, alpha-amylase, sodium carboxymethyl inulin, water, alcohol, sodium chloride & polyvinyl alcohol polymer
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
Truly Free’s eco-friendly Dishwasher Soap is your solution for tackling tough grease and burnt-on food without compromising your family’s health.
This powerful formula harnesses the cleaning power of naturally derived ingredients and enzymes to break down stains and leave your dishes spotless.
Coconut-derived lauryl alcohol is the secret ingredient to getting your dishes so clean while anti-spotting and anti-filming agents keep your dishes streak free.
price
$24.95
ingredients
Lauryl alcohol, TAED, sodium sulfate, sodium carboxymethyl inulin, sodium polyacrylate, sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, precipitated silica, sodium citrate & protease, amylase
location/shipping
United States
Embrace the future of cleaning with Blueland’s Dishwasher Tablets.
These dry-form tablets are powered by non-toxic plant and mineral-based ingredients, effectively cutting through grime and leaving your dishes sparkling clean without any plastic packaging.
Unlike conventional detergent pods, Blueland’s tablets do not dissolve plastic film onto your dishes, ensuring a safer clean for your family.
Certified by EPA Safer Choice, EWG, and Cradle to Cradle, these tablets are gentle enough for baby bottles yet powerful enough to tackle tough stains.
The starter set comes with a sleek, compact forever tin that holds 60 tablets, while refills are packaged in compostable paper for a truly zero-waste experience.
price
$25
ingredients
Sodium carbonate, citric acid, sorbitan caprylate, subtilisin, amylase, sodium carboxymethyl inulin, lauryl/myristyl glucoside, sodium citrate
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia & New Zealand
Can’t bear to give up the convenience of dishwasher detergent pods? With Puracy’s Natural Dishwasher Detergent Pods, you don’t have to!
Puracy’s pods are 99.5% natural and harness the cleaning power of plant-derived enzymes to dissolve tough grime and leave your dishes spotless.
Developed by chemists and rigorously tested, these pods work efficiently even in hard water, leaving zero residue behind.
Free from phosphates, SLS, parabens, chlorine bleach, petrochemicals, animal by-products, dyes, perfumes, phthalates, caustics, and other harmful ingredients, Puracy’s pods are biodegradable and safe for grey water and septic systems.
price
$9.99
ingredients
Sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, alkyl polyglucoside, sodium metasilicate, protease, carboxymethyl inulin, amylase & polyvinyl alcohol
location/shipping
United States
When it comes to dishwasher pods, it doesn’t get any more eco-friendly than A Drop In The Ocean’s PVA-Free Dishwasher Pods.
These non-toxic, biodegradable pods are handmade using just four easy-to-pronounce, septic-safe ingredients, ensuring a powerful clean without the use of harmful chemicals.
Completely plastic-free and packaged in minimal, reused kraft paper with paper tape, these pods are the best zero-waste alternative to conventional dishwasher detergents.
Note: If you have hard water, you may experience a white residue on your dishes due to the natural ingredients in our detergent.
If this occurs, simply add some distilled white vinegar to your dishwasher’s rinse aid dispenser for an extra sparkle.
price
$11
ingredients
Washing soda, dendritic salt, grapefruit + lemon essential oil blend & distilled water
location/shipping
Handmade in Washington, United States. Ships to select international countries
Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Dishwasher Detergent takes sustainability and cleaning performance to the next level.
Their unique 2-in-1 powder formula harnesses the power of advanced bio enzymes and natural, non-toxic ingredients to get your dishes squeaky clean without the use of harmful chemicals like 1,4-dioxane or CA Prop 65 substances.
With just one scoop per load (or two for heavily soiled dishes), this detergent delivers sparkling, streak-free results every time.
Plus the cute little included wooden scooper ensures just the right amount, making it easy to achieve the perfect clean.
price
$20
ingredients
Sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, sodium carbonate peroxide, sodium gluconate, protease, sorbitan caprylate, hydrous sodium silicate powder, sodium carboxymethyl inulin & alpha-amylase
location/shipping
United States
PureHaven’s Dishwasher Detergent uses natural enzymes, sulfate-free cleansers, and essential oils to effectively remove baked-on stains and grease without relying on harmful chemicals like ethoxylated ingredients.
PureHaven’s formula is designed to work well in soft, moderate, and hard water conditions without leaving any white or gummy residue.
It will leave your dishes squeaky clean and glassware crystal clear without any residue or food particles left behind.
One 1-lb package, which is better for the environment compared to liquid alternatives, can clean up to 32 loads of dishes.
price
$19.95
ingredients
Sodium carbonate, D- glucaric acid, sodium percarbonate, sodium citrate, sodium silicate, methylglycinediacetic acid, sodium polyasperate, hydrated silica, lauryl, myristyl glucoside, protease, amylase & lipase
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Asia (excluding China) & the EU

2 Easy DIY Dishwasher Detergents You Can Make At Home
Super Simple DIY Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent Powder

Ditch the toxic chemicals and harsh additives found in commercial dishwasher detergents.
This super simple recipe makes an effective and eco-friendly powder that’s gentle on your dishes and the planet.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups sodium carbonate (make sure to get the right stuff – not sodium bicarbonate!)
- 2 cups sodium percarbonate
- 1 cup sodium citrate
INSTRUCTIONS
- Mix all the ingredients together in a large glass container until well combined. That’s it!
- Tip: Wear gloves and a mask while making. While these ingredients are all natural they can irritate your skin and lungs at high concentrations.
TO USE
- Simply add 1 teaspoon of this detergent to your dishwasher per cycle.
- If you notice a white residue, try adding some vinegar to the rinse cycle – it should do the trick!
- Store your powder in an airtight container.
Easy DIY Dishwasher Tablets

I love the convenience of dishwasher tablets – just toss them in and forget about them.
What I don’t love are all the toxic fragrances, phosphates, and microplastics that come with standard dishwasher tablets.
When you find out how easy (and cheap!) these are to make, you’re never going to want to go back to store-bought again.
Plus, you can feel good knowing you’re not exposing your family to harmful chemicals every time you run the dishwasher.
What you need
- 1 cup baking soda
- ¼ cup citric acid
- 1 tablespoon liquid dish soap
- Whisk
- Silicone ice tray
Instructions
- Mix the baking soda, citric acid, and dish soap together with a whisk until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Pack the mixture into a silicone ice tray, pressing it down firmly.
- Let the mixture rise for 10 minutes, then scrape off the excess and set it aside for later use.
- Allow the tablets to dry completely before removing them from the ice tray.
- Store the tablets in an airtight jar to keep them dry.
Your Guide To Shopping Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergents
Avoid These Marketing Tricks
One of the biggest challenges in finding a truly non-toxic dishwasher detergent is deciphering the marketing claims and labeling tricks used by manufacturers.
Just because a product says “natural” or “eco-friendly” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. Some common disguises for toxic ingredients include vague terms like “fragrance” or “preservatives.”
These catchall phrases can hide a multitude of sins, including phthalates, isothiazolinones, and formaldehyde-releasing agents.
To get ahead of these marketing devices, you need to learn how to read between the lines and interpret ingredient lists. The best thing to do is to look for specific, recognizable ingredients rather than broad categories. If a product claims to be “fragrance-free,” make sure that also means “phthalate-free.”
Beneficial Ingredients to Look For
So, what should you look for in a non-toxic dishwasher detergent? Here are some of the best ingredients to prioritize:
- Citric Acid: A plant-based pH adjuster that helps to soften water and prevent hard water spots.
- Sodium Bicarbonate: A mineral-based scouring agent that helps to remove tough stains and odors.
- Sodium Citrate: A plant-based water softener that helps to boost cleaning power.
- Natural Enzymes: Amylase and protease are two types of enzymes that help to break down tough food residues like starch and protein.
- Plant-Based Cleansers: Ingredients like alkyl polyglucoside and decyl glucoside are derived from natural sources like coconut and offer effective cleaning without the toxicity of synthetic surfactants.
Powder Over Pods
Generally, powder detergents tend to have fewer problematic ingredients compared to tabs or pods (though I did find a few good ones that I added to my list).
That’s because tabs and pods often have additional chemicals used to bind the ingredients together or create that convenient single-dose packaging.
Whatever you do, steer clear of pods made with a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coating. While this coating is designed to dissolve in water, there is evidence that it may not break down completely and can contribute to microplastics on your dishes and plastic pollution in waterways.
Helpful Certifications to Look For
One way to cut through the marketing noise is to look for third-party certifications. Some of the most reliable include:
- EPA Safer Choice
- USDA Biobased
- Green Seal
- EcoLogo
These certifications have strict standards for health and environmental safety, so you can feel confident that products bearing these labels are a step above the rest.
However, keep in mind that certifications alone don’t guarantee a perfect product. You’ll still want to check the ingredient list and use your best judgment.
How Hard Water Impacts Natural Dishwasher Detergents
Another important factor to consider when choosing a dishwasher detergent is your water hardness.
Hard water, which is high in minerals like calcium and magnesium, can reduce the effectiveness of detergents and leave dishes looking cloudy or spotted.
You can test your water hardness using a simple kit from a hardware store or by contacting your local water utility. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg), with anything over 7 gpg considered “very hard.”
Different detergents are formulated to work best with different levels of water hardness, so it’s important to choose one that matches your needs.
A detergent designed for soft water (0-3 gpg) may not work as well in very hard water, and vice versa.
This has been your guide to the best non-toxic dishwasher detergents (DIY & store-bought).
I’m sure this has been everything you ever wanted to know (and more!) about dishwasher detergent. Who knew those innocent-looking pods were hiding such dirty little secrets?
I know that switching to a non-toxic alternative might seem like just another thing on your never-ending to-do list. But considering you’re basically eating all of those toxic chemicals they add to dishwasher detergent, this is one change that is worth making.
Whether you go the DIY route or opt for one of these great store-bought options, this is one small change that adds up to a major positive impact on your health.
Check out our other amazing Non-Toxic Cleaning Products articles:
- Non-Toxic Floor Cleaners (DIY & Store-Bought)
- Non-Toxic Household Cleaning Tips
- Safe Alternatives To Air Fresheners
- Non-Toxic DIY Cleaning Recipes
- Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent
- Organic Household Cleaners
- Non-Toxic Cleaning Swaps
- Non-Toxic Fabric Softener
- Ways To Decrease Toxins
- Sustainable Living Swaps
- Non Toxic Dish Sponges
- Non-Toxic Dish Soap
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References
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