Best Non Toxic Dishwasher Detergents for Clean Dishes
Looking for the best non-toxic dishwasher detergent? Compare eco-friendly tablets, pods and powders for effective cleaning, ingredient transparency and less packaging.
Oh, the magic of the dishwasher! Pile in a day’s worth of dirty dishes, add the detergent, press a button, and voilà—clean dishes!
Having lived without an automatic dishwasher in a few apartments in my younger years, I distinctly remember how magical it felt to have a machine that washed my dishes for me. One thing I didn’t give much thought to in those early years was the type of dishwasher detergent I was using. Turns out, I should have been!
These days, I’m much more mindful about what I use in my home, including the products I use to clean my dishes. But finding the best non-toxic dishwasher detergent isn’t just about choosing ingredients you feel good about—it needs to get your dishes clean, too.
I’ve compared eco-friendly dishwasher detergents in tablets, pods, powders and gels, looking at ingredients, cleaning performance, packaging, cost and third-party certifications. Below, I’ll share my favorite options, including fragrance-free choices and products without PVA pod film, so you can find a dishwasher detergent that works for your home.
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Quick Picks: Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergents
Looking for a quick recommendation? These are my top picks for non-toxic dishwasher detergents, including my favorite overall, PVA-free tablets, a budget-friendly powder and options in different formats. Use this table to compare the products and find the best fit for your needs.
| Product | Best For | Format |
| Blueland | Best overall | Tablets |
| Branch Basics | PVA-free | Tablets |
| Rosey | Budget-friendly | Powder |
| Seventh Generation | Easy to find | Powder |
| ECOS | Gel option | Gel |
Ingredients to Look For and Avoid in Dishwasher Detergent
Dishwasher detergents can contain a mix of cleaning agents, enzymes, fragrances, and other additives. When choosing a more eco-friendly option, I look for ingredients that get dishes clean effectively while avoiding ingredients that raise concerns for human health or the environment. Here are some ingredients to watch for and others worth looking for.
Ingredients to AVOID in Dishwasher Detergent
When choosing a dishwasher detergent, I look for formulas that clean effectively without unnecessary fragrance or ingredients that raise environmental concerns. Here are a few ingredients and ingredient categories I pay attention to:
- Synthetic fragrance: Fragrance ingredients aren’t always fully disclosed on product labels, and some fragrance components can trigger sensitivities or irritation. I prefer fragrance-free dishwasher detergent, especially since I don’t want a lingering scent on my dishes.
- Artificial dyes and colorants: These usually aren’t necessary for cleaning dishes, so I prefer formulas without added colorants.
- Phosphates: Phosphates have been restricted in many household automatic dishwasher detergents, particularly in the United States, because of their contribution to water pollution and algal blooms. Formulations and regulations can vary, so check the ingredient information if phosphate avoidance is a priority.
- Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite): Some dishwasher detergents contain chlorine-based bleaching agents. If you’d rather avoid them, look for a formula without sodium hypochlorite. As with any cleaning ingredient, its safety depends on the concentration, how it’s used, and the product formulation.
- Ethoxylated ingredients: Some ingredients made through ethoxylation can contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane as a manufacturing byproduct. This doesn’t mean every ethoxylated ingredient contains it at a meaningful level, but it’s one reason some consumers look for greater ingredient transparency.
- Certain polymers: Some detergents contain synthetic polymers that may not readily biodegrade. Because environmental behavior varies by polymer, I look for brands that provide clear information about their ingredients and environmental impact.
Ingredient lists can be confusing, and an ingredient’s name alone doesn’t tell the whole story. I focus on the overall formula, cleaning performance, ingredient transparency, and environmental impact rather than assuming that every synthetic ingredient is automatically unsafe.
Learn more about the potential health risks of cleaning product ingredients.
Ingredients to Look for in Dishwasher Detergent
Many dishwasher detergents use mineral-based cleaning agents and other ingredients, such as sodium carbonate, sodium citrate and sodium silicate, to help remove food residue and improve cleaning performance.
I prefer unscented dishwasher detergent because I don’t like any scent left on my clean dishes. If you prefer a scented option, check how the fragrance is described and choose what works best for your household. Natural fragrances and essential oils can also cause irritation or sensitivities in some people.
Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent Types
A truly eco-friendly dishwasher detergent is about more than just ingredients. It’s about the packaging too.
Cleaning products are notorious for being packaged in big plastic bottles, and dishwashing detergents are no exception. Fortunately, some smart, eco-friendly alternatives have popped up! I especially appreciate brands that offer plastic-free refill packs.
There are three primary types of dishwasher detergent and they all come packaged in different ways.
- Dishwasher detergent pods, packs or tablets: Pods and packs typically contain a premeasured dose of detergent enclosed in a water-soluble film, often made from PVA. Tablets are usually compressed detergent without an outer film, although packaging varies by brand. Both types may come in cardboard boxes, recyclable tins or plastic bags, depending on the product.
- Dishwasher detergent powder: Powder is sold in either a cardboard box or a plastic bag.
- Dishwasher Detergent gel or liquid: Dishwasher gel comes in a plastic bottle.
A note about dishwasher pods: Many dishwasher pods are wrapped in a water-soluble film made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, also called PVOH). Although this synthetic polymer dissolves in water and is often marketed as biodegradable, dissolving doesn’t automatically mean a material has fully biodegraded.
Research on PVA’s environmental fate has produced different findings. A 2021 study raised concerns about how much PVA from detergent pods may remain after conventional wastewater treatment, while a 2024 study found extensive biodegradation of a specific type of PVA under simulated wastewater-treatment conditions. The results suggest that the polymer’s fate depends on the material and treatment conditions, and there is still uncertainty about its behavior across real-world systems. (2021 study; 2024 study)
If you’d prefer to avoid this uncertainty, look for dishwasher tablets that don’t use a dissolvable film. I personally prefer film-free tablets or dishwasher powder in cardboard packaging.
We’ve also got a roundup of the Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
Now that you know what to look for in a dishwasher detergent, let’s compare some of the best natural and eco-friendly options. I’ve grouped them by type to help you find one that fits your preferences, budget, and dishwasher.
A note about pricing: I’ve included the estimated cost per load for each brand, but keep in mind that recommended amounts vary. Some detergents call for 1 ounce per load, while others recommend ½ ounce. The amount you need may also depend on your dishwasher and how dirty your dishes are. Prices can change, so check the brand’s website for current pricing.
Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent Pods and Tablets
I generally prefer dishwasher tablets without a PVA film because they avoid this extra material. Tablets can also reduce the need for individual packaging, depending on how they’re sold. That said, pods are convenient and premeasured, so I’ve included both options to help you decide what works best for your household.
Blueland Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
These are my favorite dishwasher tablets. They’re a bit more expensive, but I appreciate that they’re PVA-free, EWG Verified and work really well.
- Key Ingredients: sodium carbonate, citric acid, sodium citrate, alkyl polyglucoside, sorbitan caprylate
- Packaging options: tablets
- Scent options: Unscented
- Other benefits: A great zero waste dishwasher detergent. Purchase a reusable storage tin, refills come in paper bags
- Certifications: Cradle to Cradle Certified, EPA Safer Choice, Leaping Bunny, EWG Verified, B-Corporation
- Cost per load: $.33 – $.42 depending on quantity purchased
- Get free shipping on orders over $45, save on subscriptions
Branch Basics Dishwasher Tablets
These PVA-free dishwasher tablets are a convenient option if you prefer premeasured detergent without a dissolvable pod film. When I’m stocking up on Branch Basics concentrate, I happily add these to my order!
- Ingredients: Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Percarbonate, MGDA Trisodium Salt, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Silicate, Poly(itaconic acid-co-AMPS) Sodium Salt, TAED, Protease, Amylase, Magnesium Stearate, Decyl Glucoside
- Packaging options: tablets
- Scent options: Unscented
- Certifications: Leaping Bunny, EWG Verified
- Cost per load: $.35 – $.39 depending on subscription
- Take 15% off with code MINDFULMOMMA
Dropps Dishwasher Detergent Pods
If you prefer dishwasher pods, Dropps is a convenient option. The pods are wrapped in PVA film, so they’re not the best fit if you’re looking to avoid dissolvable pod films.
- Ingredients: Sodium carbonate*, sodium percarbonate*, poly(itaconic acid-co-AMPS) sodium salt* , trisodium citrate dihydrate*, alkoxylated alcohol*, subtilisin, silicic acid*, tetraacetylethylenediamine*, alpha amylase, polyvinyl alcohol film (PVOH). *Denotes plant or mineral origin.
- Packaging options: pods
- Scent options: Unscented or Lemon
- Other benefits: Shipped in low-waste, recyclable cardboard packaging.
- Certifications: EPA Safer Choice, B-Corp
- Cost per load: $.38 to $.43 per pod, depending on subscription
- Get 15% off your first order with code DROPPS15 at checkout.
ATTITUDE Dishwasher Tablets
ATTITUDE dishwasher tablets have no extra packaging and come in a recyclable cardboard box.
- Ingredients: 5-15% oxygen-based bleaching agents (sodium percarbonate), <5% vegetable non-ionic surfactants, <5% enzymes. Contains also : Sodium citrate, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, sodium silicate, glycerin.
- Packaging options: tablets
- Scent options: Unscented
- Certifications: EcoLogo certified
- ATTITUDE also makes my favorite non-toxic dish soap that is also refillable
- Cost per load: $.32 to $.49 per tablet, depending on subscription.
- Get 15% off with code MINDFULMOMMA15 at checkout.
Aspen Clean Dishwasher Pods
Aspen Clean Pods have a PVA film, are EWG Verified™ and come in a cardboard container.
- Ingredients: Sodium Citrate; Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Carbonate Peroxide; Sodium Sulfate; Sodium Silicate, Decyl Glucoside (Coconut, Palm Kernel Oil derived), Subtilisin (Enzyme), Alpha-amylase (Enzyme), Sodium Carboxymethyl Inulin (Chicory Root derived), Water / Eau, Alcohol (Corn derived)**, Sodium Chloride (Salt) Film: Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a water-soluble polymer
- Packaging options: pods
- Scent options: Unscented
- Certifications: Eco-Cert, Leaping Bunny, EWG Verified™
- Cost per load: $.73 to $.82 per pod, depending on subscription
- These are a bit more expensive so I’d only purchase if I’m buying other things from Aspen Clean.
Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Powder
Dishwasher powder is often affordable and may come in a cardboard box instead of plastic. It’s easy to adjust the amount you use, but it can be messy. I’ve also found that overfilling the detergent dispenser can prevent it from opening properly or leave powder behind after the cycle.
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Powder
If you want a dishwasher detergent powder in a simple cardboard box, this one is a great option.
- Ingredients: Sodium chloride (mineral-based processing aid), sodium sulfate (mineral-based processing aid), sodium carbonate (mineral-based cleaning agent), citric acid (plant-derived water softener), sodium percarbonate (mineral-based oxygen stain removal agent), ppg-10-laureth-7 (plant-modified synthetic cleaning agent), sodium silicate (mineral-based cleaning enhancer), sodium polyaspartate (synthetic anti-filming agent), protease enzyme blend (plant-based soil remover), amylase enzyme blend (plant-based soil remover).
- Packaging options: powder, packs or gel
- Scent options: free & clear, fresh citrus, lemon
- Certifications: USDA Certified Biobased Product, Leaping Bunny, B-Corporation
- Cost per load: $0.38 (based on 1-oz per load)
- I bought this one for years before I switched over to Rosey.
Rosey Dishwasher Detergent Powder (from Thrive Market)
One of the many benefits of being a Thrive Market member is their Rosey brand of cleaning products. This dishwasher powder works well and is the most affordable dishwasher detergent I’ve found.
- Ingredients: Sodium Chloride, Sodium Carbonate, Citric Acid, Sodium Carbonate Peroxide, Sodium Sulfate, Protease Enzyme.
- Packaging options: powder or packs
- Scent options: Unscented or Fresh Lemon
- Other benefits: The lowest cost per load among my current picks
- Certifications: Leaping Bunny, B-Corp
- Cost per load: $0.09 (based on 1/2 scoop per load)
Truly Free Dishwasher Soap Powder
Truly Free make a thoughtfully-formulated dishwasher detergent using plant-derived ingredients and enzymes. It’s a bit more expensive but you can use code MINDFULMOMMA30 for 30% off your first order.
- Ingredients: Sodium Percarbonate, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Carboxymethyl Inulin, Alkoxylated Alcohol, Acrylic Acid Homopolymer, Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), Protease, Amylase, Sodium Sulfate.
- Packaging options: powder
- Scent options: Fragrance free
- Certifications: Leaping Bunny Certified, Think Dirty® Verified
- Cost per load: $0.50 (based on 1 scoop per load)
Best Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Gel
Some people prefer dishwasher gel because it’s easy to dispense, although it’s still possible to use too much. The main downside is the packaging: dishwasher gel typically comes in a plastic bottle. I prefer to avoid plastic packaging whenever practical.
ECOS Dishwasher Gel
- Ingredients: Water, Sodium Citrate (plant-derived water softener), Citric Acid (plant-derived pH adjuster), Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (plant-derived water softener), Xanthan Gum (plant-derived thickener), Caprylyl/Myristyl Glucoside (plant-derived surfactant), Potassium Sorbate (plant-derived preservative), Enzymatic Blend (soil remover).
- Packaging options: gel
- Scent options: Free & Clear
- Cost per load: $0.17 (based on 1-oz per load)
Best Fragrance-Free Dishwasher Detergent
If you or anyone in your home has allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, you probably want to stick with unscented dishwasher detergent since fragrances in detergents can contain various chemicals that may irritate sensitive individuals.
Scented detergents can leave behind fragrance residues on dishes which can affect the flavor of food served on them. Personally, I prefer using an unscented dishwasher detergent for this reason.
All of the detergents recommended in this post have fragrance-free options. My favorite is Blueland Dishwasher Tablets because they’re unscented, PVA-free and work well for me.
Learn more about my favorite non-toxic cleaning products for all around the home.
FAQs About Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent
What is the best dishwasher detergent for hard water?
If you have hard water, look for a dishwasher detergent formulated to help prevent mineral buildup and spots. Ingredients such as sodium citrate and other water-softening agents can help manage minerals in the water. Cleaning performance varies by formula, so you may need to try a few options to find one that works well with your water and dishwasher.
Are non-toxic dishwasher detergents effective?
Many dishwasher detergents formulated with simpler ingredients can clean everyday dishes effectively. Results depend on the formula, water hardness, dishwasher settings and how heavily soiled your dishes are. If a product leaves food residue or film, check that you’re using the recommended amount of detergent, clean the dishwasher filter and make sure your dishwasher is loading and running properly.
Are dishwasher pods with PVA film bad for the environment?
Many dishwasher pods use polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, also called PVOH), a synthetic polymer designed to dissolve in water. However, dissolving doesn’t automatically mean a material fully biodegrades under all environmental conditions. Its environmental fate depends on factors such as the film formulation and wastewater treatment conditions, and the extent of biodegradation under real-world conditions depends on the PVA formulation and treatment process. If you’d prefer to avoid this uncertainty, consider dishwasher tablets without a dissolvable film or powder sold in minimal packaging.
Which is better: dishwasher pods, tablets, liquid or powder?
Which is better: dishwasher pods, tablets, liquid or powder?
The best option depends on your priorities. Pods and tablets are convenient because they’re premeasured, while powder is often the most affordable and lets you adjust the amount used. Gels are easy to dispense but typically come in plastic bottles. If reducing packaging waste and avoiding PVA film are priorities, consider tablets without a film wrapper. Whichever type you choose, cleaning performance will depend on the formula, your water and your dishwasher.
Do you need a rinse aid in the dishwasher?
Not everyone needs a rinse aid, but it can help dishes and glasses dry more evenly and reduce water spots, especially if you have hard water. If your glasses come out spotty or cloudy, try a rinse aid and check whether mineral buildup is contributing to the problem. Seventh Generation Rinse Aid works well for me!
My dishes aren’t getting clean. What should I do?
Start by checking your dishwasher filter, which can collect food particles and interfere with cleaning when it gets clogged. Clean it regularly according to your dishwasher’s instructions. Also, make sure the spray arms aren’t blocked, avoid overcrowding the dishwasher, and use the recommended amount of detergent. If dishes still aren’t coming clean, hard water or a buildup inside the dishwasher could be contributing to the problem.
Do you have a favorite non-toxic dishwasher detergent? Let me know in the comments!
Hi. Really need some advice. We use gg pods for dishwasher and lemishine. We have well water w salt softener. And now have a new dishwasher and major etching on glasses. Some say you need zinc, don’t rinse dishes, less soap, shorter wash cycle. I am at my wits end. A bowl of vinegar run in dishwasher once a month? Any advice would be great.
Karen
I’m afraid I’m not an expert in this area. I would contact the manufacturer of the dishwasher.
Can you recommend any liquid dish soaps?
I use ATTITUDE liquid dish soap. I buy the refill box and fill up my stainless steel bottle with it! Here’s a link to it: http://shrsl.com/3z88h
Thanks for the list! Just ordered the Blueland tablets based on your reviews.