The Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent Options

As a busy mom of seven, my sink is never empty of dirty dishes. I do at least 2-3 loads of dishes per day. My dishwasher is definitely a hardworking machine! Several years ago my oldest daughter was diagnosed with eczema caused by allergic reactions to harmful ingredients in conventional laundry detergents.

Since then, I have tried my best to find safer dishwasher detergents and other products for my family. In today’s blog post, I’m going to share with the best non toxic dishwasher detergent brands on the market, and I’m also going to share with you my favorite! Hint, it’s budget friendly, which is a must for our large family!

What Toxic Ingredients Are In Conventional Dishwasher Detergents?

First, let’s talk about the harmful chemicals you definitely want to avoid in a dishwasher detergent purchased from your local grocery store. These toxic chemicals could do anything to human health from causing skin irritation to disrupting hormones.

Here are some common toxic ingredients found in conventional dishwasher detergents:

• Phosphates: Phosphates are used as water softeners and help to remove food particles from dishes. However, they can contribute to water pollution and algae blooms in water bodies, leading to ecological damage.
• Chlorine bleach: Chlorine bleach is a powerful disinfectant and stain remover but can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It can also produce harmful fumes when mixed with other cleaning agents.
• Synthetic fragrances: Many conventional dishwasher detergents contain synthetic fragrances to mask odors and provide a pleasant scent. However, these fragrances can contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors and may have adverse health effects.
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): These surfactants are used to create foam and help to remove grease and grime from dishes. However, they can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, especially in sensitive individuals.
• Ethanolamines (MEA, DEA, TEA): Ethanolamines are used as emulsifiers and pH adjusters in dishwasher detergents. They can react with other ingredients to form harmful compounds such as nitrosamines, which are classified as potential carcinogens.
• Phthalates: Phthalates are often used as plasticizers in dishwasher detergent packaging but can also be present in fragrances. They have been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive health issues. You know all the plastic bottles everything comes in? Many of them contain phthalates. Check out this case study on phthalates.
• Synthetic dyes: Conventional dishwasher detergents may contain synthetic dyes to enhance their appearance. These dyes can contain heavy metals and other harmful chemicals that may be harmful to human health and the environment.

Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent Options

With growing concerns about the impact of chemicals on both our health and the environment, the demand for non-toxic dishwasher detergents has surged. Fortunately, several brands have risen to the occasion, offering effective yet environmentally friendly options. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best non-toxic dishwasher detergent brands, ensuring your clean dishes shine without compromise.

• Biokleen Automatic Dish Powder: Biokleen stands out for its commitment to plant-based ingredients and powerful cleaning performance. Their Automatic Dish Powder harnesses the natural cleaning power of enzymes and citrus extracts to tackle tough stains and grease without the need for harsh chemicals. Free from phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances, it’s gentle on both your dishes and the environment. Plus, Biokleen’s powder formula minimizes packaging waste, further reducing its ecological footprint.
• Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Tablets: Ecover is renowned for its eco-friendly cleaning products, and their Automatic Dishwasher Tablets are no exception. Made with renewable plant-based ingredients and biodegradable wrappers, they offer a convenient and sustainable dishwashing solution. These tablets effectively remove food residues and grease, leaving dishes sparkling clean without leaving behind any chemical residues. Ecover’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their products, with a focus on minimizing water and energy usage throughout the manufacturing process.
• Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Pods: Grab Green combines convenience and eco-friendliness with their Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Pods. These pre-measured pods feature a powerful formula free from phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, they utilize plant and mineral-based ingredients to deliver superior cleaning performance. With a focus on sustainability, Grab Green’s packaging is recyclable, and their manufacturing processes prioritize energy efficiency. Plus, their dishwasher pods come in a variety of delightful scents derived from essential oils, adding a touch of freshness to your cleaning routine.
• Seventh Generation Auto Dish Packs: Seventh Generation is a pioneer in eco-friendly cleaning products, and their Auto Dish Packs are a testament to their dedication to sustainability. Made with plant-based ingredients and free from chlorine, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances, these packs provide a powerful yet gentle clean. Designed for convenience, each pack is pre-measured, eliminating the need for messy pouring or measuring. Seventh Generation’s commitment to transparency extends to their packaging, which clearly lists all ingredients and their environmental impact.
• Blueland Dishwasher Defrgvtergent Tablets: Phosphate Free, Dye Free, Artificial Fragrance Free, Paraben Free and in plastic free packaging! Blueland dishwasher detergent tablets are tough on stains, but gentle on the environment. They are made with mineral-dervied ingredients and are Leaping Bunny certified.
• Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods – Molly’s Suds is known for their awesome laundry detergent, but they also make other natural cleaning products such as these dishwasher pods. Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Detergent Pods naturally cut through grease & stuck-on food stains to leave dishes sparking with zero residue, streaks, or other mineral build-up. Simple and effective, Molly’s Suds products are free from ethoxylates and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. These dishwasher pods are made with plant-derived ingredients and with 4.5 stars on Amazon, it’s a favorite!

When it comes to non-toxic dishwasher detergent brands, these options are at the top of the list, offering effective cleaning power without compromising on safety or sustainability. Whether you choose Biokleen, Ecover, Grab Green, Seventh Generation, Blueland, or Molly’s Suds you can trust that you’re making a conscious choice for both your family’s health and the health of the planet. Say goodbye to chemical residues and hello to gleaming dishes and a clean conscience with these top non-toxic dishwasher detergent brands.

​The Best Natural Dishwasher Detergent

So, I’ve shared with you some great non-toxic dishwashing detergents, but I haven’t shared my favorite. Can you guess which one has my heart? It’s Truly Free’s Dishwasher Soap! 

Truly Free Dishwasher Detergent Review

First and foremost, a dishwasher soap must excel in its primary task: cleaning dishes. Truly Free Dishwasher Soap does not disappoint. From baked-on lasagna remnants to stubborn coffee stains, it tackles them all with ease, leaving dishes sparkling clean and residue-free. Its powerful formula ensures that even the toughest grime is no match, while still being gentle on cookware and utensils. With each cycle, you can trust that your dishes will emerge flawlessly clean, ready to dazzle at your next dinner party.

What truly sets Truly Free Dishwasher Soap apart is its commitment to sustainability. Formulated with biodegradable ingredients and devoid of harmful chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances, it stands as a beacon of eco-friendliness in a sea of chemical-laden alternatives.

Additionally, its packaging is fully recyclable, further reducing its environmental footprint. By choosing Truly Free, you not only prioritize the health of your home but also contribute to the well-being of the planet.

While Truly Free Dishwasher Soap may come at a slightly higher price point than conventional brands (but cheaper than non-toxic counterparts), its superior performance and eco-friendly credentials more than justify the investment. Consider it an investment in both cleanliness and sustainability, with the added benefit of supporting ethical manufacturing practices.

In the long run, the cost savings from reduced water usage and energy consumption also add to its overall value proposition. When you factor in the peace of mind that comes from using a product free from harmful chemicals, Truly Free emerges as a clear winner in terms of value.

Truly Free Dishwasher Soap lives up to its name, delivering exceptional cleaning power while staying true to its commitment to sustainability. With its potent yet planet-friendly formula, it represents a step forward in the quest for greener household products.

By choosing Truly Free, you not only elevate the cleanliness of your dishes but also contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. Make the switch today and experience the difference for yourself – your dishes, and the planet, will thank you.

Here’s a look at the ingredient list of Truly Free Dishwasher Soap:

Sodium Sulfate , Sodium Carboxymethyl Inulin , Sodium Citrate , Sodium Polyacrylate , Sodium Carbonate , Protease , Sodium Percarbonate , and Precipitated Silica.

These simple ingredients in this dishwasher powder will ensure healthy cleaning for the very dishes your family eats off of. 

How do I use Truly Free Dishwasher Soap?

Because we wash so many dishes, we go through a lot of dishwasher detergent. Truly Free’s dishwasher soap is a simple powder made in plastic free packaging that is fully recyclable. I use one scoop per load. My kids tend to make a huge mess of their dishes, and we have found that they need minimal rinsing before going in the dishwasher. All of our dishes come out completely clean and free of streaks! 

We absolutely love all of the environmentally friendly products from the Truly Free line. Be sure to check out our review of Truly Free Laundry Wash, and snag your Dishwasher Soap in the Kitchen Bundle. You’ll get 50 loads free! Use code SIMPLELIVINGMAMA to save even more on your purchase!

Get the Truly Free Kitchen Bundle here!

Are you looking for a natural dish soap? Check out our list of Non-Toxic Dish Soap Brands. You’ll also want to check out my review of Truly Free Laundry Wash!