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On the hunt for some non-toxic dishwasher tablets that won’t leach harmful chemicals all over your dishes? The SKL team has created the perfect guide for you today!
We have researched, tried, and tested the following 11 nontoxic dishwasher tablet brands that will deliver sparkling results while keeping your health (and the health of our planet) in mind.
P.S. Don’t forget to check out 15 Natural & Non Toxic Dish Soap Liquids, Tablets & Bars!
Best eco-friendly, non-toxic dishwasher tablets in 2024!
Did you know that most store-bought dishwasher tablets often come jam-packed with toxic chemicals like phosphates, synthetic fragrances, and chlorine bleach?
These nasties not only pose potential risks to your health but also contribute to water pollution.
What are non-toxic dishwasher tablets?
Non-toxic dishwasher tablets are effective cleaning products designed for dishwashers that are formulated with ingredients considered safe for human health and the environment.
These tablets are biodegradable (breaking down naturally) and come in either fragrance-free or non-synthetically fragranced options (think essential oils).
What toxic chemicals are hiding in most dishwasher tablets?
Phosphates
Phosphates are added to dishwasher detergents to help break down food particles and prevent them from redepositing on dishes.
However, excessive phosphate runoff into water systems can contribute to environmental issues such as algal blooms, which may harm aquatic ecosystems.
Chlorine Bleach
Chlorine bleach is a strong disinfectant and stain remover. While effective at killing bacteria and removing stains, chlorine bleach can release harmful fumes during the washing cycle, which may irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is a surfactant commonly used in detergents to break down grease and enhance cleaning. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Synthetic Fragrances
Many dishwasher tablets contain synthetic fragrances to impart a pleasant scent to the dishes. These fragrances often contain phthalates, which have been associated with endocrine disruption and other health concerns.
Formaldehyde Releasers
Some dishwasher tablets release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, as a by-product during the cleaning process. Formaldehyde can also cause respiratory and skin irritation.
Artificial Dyes
Dishwasher tablets may contain artificial dyes to enhance their appearance. These dyes are unnecessary for cleaning and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benzotriazole
Used as a corrosion inhibitor in dishwasher detergents, benzotriazole has been associated with aquatic toxicity and environmental concerns.
EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid)
EDTA is used as a chelating agent in dishwasher detergents to bind metal ions and improve cleaning. While it is generally considered safe, its environmental impact is a concern.
The Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets For An Eco-Friendly Kitchen
1. Blueland
From non-toxic body wash to non-toxic dish soaps and tablets, Blueland has a formula for each one of our needs!
The dry-form, non-toxic dishwasher tablets bring all the cleaning power, cutting through grease, grime, and food stains for a spotless, plastic-free shine on your dishes.
Also, the plant and mineral-based ingredients are certified by EPA Safer Choice, EWG, and Cradle to Cradle.
They are Independently tested to tackle dishware, glassware, silver, and porcelain to boot!
The starter kit comes with the forever tin, which holds 60 tablets and takes up only half the space compared to traditional plastic bottles.
When you run out, you can grab the 100% plastic-free refills.
Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets from Blueland:
Price: $25 (60 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Chlorine bleach | Ammonia | VOCs
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, EPA Safer Choice, Cradle To Cradle Certified™, Leaping Bunny Certified, Climate Neutral Certified, 100% plastic-free, compostable refill packaging
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada, United Kingdom, Australia & New Zealand
2. Dropps
Because we all hate the hassle of pre-washing, Dropps went on a mission to eliminate this need with their eco-friendly dishwasher tablets.
The result? This USA-made, triple-action dishwashing detergent handles stuck-on food naturally, leaving your dishes so clean you can literally eat off them.
All thanks to the natural minerals that rinse away baked-on food and stains.
What’s more, Dropps’ completely non-toxic dishwasher tablets are naturally free of artificial dyes because true cleaning power doesn’t need colors.
Instead of toxic chemicals, they opted for oxygen-based bleaching agents, dissolvable polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) membrane, and more natural cruelty-free & vegan ingredients.
For more non-toxic swaps, check out their “laundry” and “dish” categories.
Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets from Dropps:
- Dishwasher Detergent Pods – Unscented
- Dishwasher Detergent Pods – Lemon
- Dishwasher Detergent Pods – Fresh Rain
Price: From $50+ (128 Tablets)
Free From: Phosphate | Phthalates | Chlorine | Dyes
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, USDA Certified, mineral-based ingredients, 3rd party lab tested, cruelty-free & vegan, 100% carbon-neutral shipping, recyclable cardboard packaging
Location/Shipping: United States
3. Branch Basics
Branch Basics’ best non-toxic dishwasher tablets are 100% biodegradable, leaving no environmental footprint.
They’re PVA-free and designed to effortlessly tackle the toughest grease and sticky messes.
What makes them so effective? Methylglycinediacetic acid trisodium salt (MGDA) – a plant-based cleanser that not only softens water but also minimizes residue.
Another stellar addition is the decyl glucoside plant-based cleaner.
Known for its gentle and biodegradable nature, it grabs onto food and washes away grease, leaving your dishes sparkling clean.
Now, add sodium percarbonate to the mix! The mineral-based brightener and deodorizer that lifts stains effortlessly.
P.S. They also carry antibacterial hand soap and one of the safest toilet cleaners we’ve ever come across.
Price: $15 (40 Tablets)
Free From: Phthalates | Chlorine | Sulfates | Essential oils | Fragrance | Plastic film
Ethics: Made Safe, Leaping Bunny Certified, plant & mineral based, 100% biodegradable
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
4. Grove Collaborative
Next up is one of the best eco-friendly alternatives to Amazon – Groove Collaborative.
The total clean dishwasher detergent packs are cruelty-free and USDA BioPreferred certified!
Packed with natural cleaning enzymes, the triple-action formula is engineered to eliminate tough grease and stubborn food stains better than the rest.
Of course, no parabens, phthalates, phosphates, chlorine bleach, or dyes are included.
On the contrary, the non-toxic dishwasher tablets in each pack are made of PVA, a chemical-free polymer that dissolves easily in water.
The new and improved packaging comes in infinitely recyclable aluminum tins.
Plus, you’ll absolutely love the 100% natural fragrance, derived from essential oils and plant extracts.
Best Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets from Grove Collaborative:
- Dishwasher Detergent Packs (18 Tablets)
- Dishwasher Detergent Packs (30 Tablets)
- Dishwasher Detergent Packs (36 Tablets)
Price: $11.99 (36 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Chlorine bleach | Dyes
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, USDA BioPreferred, Leaping Bunny Certified, 91% plant-based, Grove recycling program
Location/Shipping: United States
5. Puracy
Refillable body wash swaps? Check! Non-toxic oven cleaners? Check! Safe dishwashing tablets? You bet!
Puracy’s best eco-friendly dishwasher tablets, developed by a chemist, promise spotless and squeaky clean dishes without chemicals! Just some amazing mineral-based water softeners.
Each 50-pack pouch brings you 50 dishwasher loads of unmatched cleaning power.
That’s a lot of sparkling dishes in one pouch! You can thank the advanced plant-derived enzymes for that.
Plus, these non-toxic dishwasher tablets are hypoallergenic, gluten-free, vegan, and biodegradable.
From ceramic to baby bottles, and toys to pots and pans, our pods deliver clear results on any dishwasher-safe item.
Price: $9.99 (18 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Chlorine bleach | SLES | Dyes | Perfumes | Petrochemicals
Ethics: Certified cruelty-free, 2 plant-based enzymes, 99.5% natural, vegan, biodegradable, zero residue
Location/Shipping: United States
6. Attitude
When it comes to completely non-toxic dishwasher tablets, ATTITUDE’s specially designed fragrance-free dishwasher tablets reign supreme.
The powerful tablets are covered in a water-soluble protective film that dissolves perfectly during washing and rinses away cleanly. No unwanted film –ever!
The best part? They act as an anti-limescale agent that protects and extends the life of your dishwasher.
Last, but not least, the eco-friendly dishwasher tablets are EWG-Verified and vegan!
Price: From $11.95 (26 Tablets)
Free From: Phosphate | Chlorine | Dyes | PVHO | Fragrances
Ethics: EWG-Verified™, vegan, water-soluble film, effective in short cycles or low temperatures, 100% recyclable cardboard packaging
Location/Shipping: United States
7. Zero Co
The Zero Co biodegradable, fragrance-free tablets deliver ridiculously clean dishes every single time.
Their plant and mineral-based formula is not only effective but also phosphate-free and grey water-safe.
The starter kit comes with a forever bottle, made from 50% recycled ocean plastic, and the refillable pouch, made from up to 40% recycled materials.
Once you run out of tablets, you simply send me back to get refilled.
Price: $33 (48 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Chlorine bleach | Dyes
Ethics: Plant-based formula, biodegradable water-soluble skins, made in Australia, grey water safe, vegan & cruelty-free, 100% recycled cardboard box
Location/Shipping: Australia
8. Eco Store
Crafted from plant and mineral-based ingredients, the Eco Store non-toxic dishwasher tablets deliver powerful stain removal without compromising on your commitment to a greener planet.
Seriously, you can tackle even the toughest food residues, from eggs to porridge.
The brand’s cleaning-grade enzymes are derived from a strictly controlled laboratory process that involves genetic engineering (GE).
On top of that, the Eco Store supports the ethical use of GE, particularly in the production of medicines like insulin or enzymes.
What’s more, each vegan and cruelty-free tablet is wrapped in a biodegradable, dissolvable wrapper, eliminating the need for direct contact.
Price: AUD $15.99 (30 Tablets)
Free From: Phosphates | Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs) | Dyes | Synthetic perfumes
Ethics: FSC Certified, Plant & mineral-based ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan
Location/Shipping: Australia
9. Aspen Clean
Cruelty-Free, EcoCert®certified, and EWG-Verified, AspenClean‘s best eco-friendly dishwasher tablets have a cult following for a reason.
They are also baby-safe, pet-safe, and hypoallergenic!
Harnessing the power of oxygen bleach, enzymes, and mineral-based ingredients, the pods are naturally formulated to cut through grease without compromising on safety.
We also love that the pods are unscented, non-toxic, and free from synthetic fragrances, chlorine, and phosphates.
However, that doesn’t mean they can’t eliminate even the toughest dried-on food stains, leaving your dishes, pots, and pans sparkling clean.
Price: $18.99 (28 Tablets)
Free From: Phosphates | Chlorine | SLS | Sulfates | Petroleum | Dyes
Ethics: EcoCert® Certified, Leaping Bunny Certified, EWG-Verified™, biodegradable, plant-based ingredients, vegan, 100% zero-plastic packaging
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
10. Molly’s Suds
From organic laundry detergents and odor removers to the best non-toxic dishwasher tablets, Molly’s Suds offers an array of refreshing alternatives that combine powerful cleaning with natural ingredients.
Each pod deep cleans a load of dishes, effortlessly dissolving dirt and tackling stuck-on food stains without compromising on safety.
Plus, they are cruelty-free and completely safe for use on various surfaces, including glass, porcelain, stainless steel, pots, pans, and even baby bottles.
Price: $19.99 (60 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Petrochemicals | Chlorine | SLES
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, earth & plant-derived ingredients, vegan
Location/Shipping: United States
11. Clean Cult
Clean Cult’s completely non-toxic dishwasher tablets are formulated to leave your dishes fresh, clean, and stain-free, all while being kind to the environment.
Each tablet is wrapped in a plastic-free, water-soluble film.
All you have to do is place the lemongrass-scented tablet, still in its wrapper, into the dishwasher, press start, and let the magic unfold. It’s that easy!
Price: $10.49 (32 Tablets)
Free From: Parabens | Phthalates | Phosphates | Dyes | SLES | SLS
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, Plastic Neutral Certified, water-soluble wrapper, 100% recyclable packaging, recycling program
Location/Shipping: United States
Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent FAQs:
What ingredients to look for in eco-friendly dishwasher tablets?
Enzymes: Enzymes are natural proteins that help break down and digest food particles, grease, and stains on dishes. Common enzymes used in non-toxic dishwasher tablets include protease (breaks down proteins), amylase (breaks down starches), and lipase (breaks down fats).
Citric Acid: Citric acid is derived from citrus fruits and is used as a water softener in dishwasher tablets. It helps prevent mineral deposits on dishes and glassware, particularly in areas with hard water.
Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash): Sodium carbonate, also known as soda ash, is a mineral-based ingredient that helps in softening water and boosting the cleaning power of the tablet.
Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): Baking soda is a gentle abrasive and helps to eliminate odors. It also aids in cleaning and scrubbing away stuck-on food.
Sodium Percarbonate: This is a combination of sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide. It serves as a stain remover and helps in breaking down tough stains, such as those from coffee or tea.
Sodium Citrate: Derived from citric acid, sodium citrate is used as a pH buffer in non-toxic dishwasher tablets. It helps maintain the effectiveness of the cleaning agents.
Sodium Silicate: Sodium silicate is a natural mineral-based ingredient that helps with the overall cleaning process by preventing the redeposition of dissolved particles back onto the dishes.
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA): PVA is a water-soluble, biodegradable material used as a wrapping for dishwasher tablets. It dissolves during the wash cycle, reducing packaging waste.
Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates: Derived from plant-based fatty alcohols, these surfactants help in breaking down and emulsifying grease, enhancing the cleaning efficiency of the tablet.
Essential Oils: Some non-toxic dishwasher tablets may include essential oils for a natural fragrance. Essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender may be used for their pleasant scents and potential antibacterial properties.
What are the environmental benefits of non-toxic dishwasher tablets?
Reduced Toxic Chemicals
Non-toxic dishwashing tablets are formulated without harmful chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances.
This means fewer potentially harmful substances are released into the environment during and after the dishwashing process, reducing water pollution.
Biodegradability
Biodegradable dishwashing tablets break down into natural and harmless substances over time, reducing their impact on the environment.
This contrasts with traditional detergents that may contain non-biodegradable ingredients, contributing to long-lasting environmental pollution.
Safer Waterways
Non-toxic formulations are designed to be safer for aquatic ecosystems. Harmful chemicals in conventional dishwashing detergents can have detrimental effects on water quality, aquatic life, and overall ecosystem health. Choosing non-toxic options helps protect waterways from pollution.
Minimal Packaging Waste
Non-toxic dishwashing tablets often come in eco-friendly packaging, which may include recyclable materials or reduced packaging overall. This helps minimize the environmental impact associated with packaging waste.
Can non-toxic dishwasher tablets remove tough stains and grease?
Yes, non-toxic dishwasher tablets are designed to effectively remove tough stains and grease from your dishes while avoiding the use of harsh chemicals.
Enzymes derived from plants help break down and digest food particles, grease, and stains, making them easier to rinse away during the dishwasher cycle.
Are non-toxic dishwasher tablets safe for use with all types of dishwashers?
Yes, non-toxic dishwasher tablets are generally safe for use with most types of dishwashers, including standard dishwashers, high-efficiency (HE) dishwashers, and portable dishwashers.
However, it’s important to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for your specific dishwasher model.
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can affect the performance of dishwasher tablets, including non-toxic ones.
Some non-toxic brands offer formulations that include water-softening agents to address this issue.
What are the best non-toxic dishwasher tablets for hard water?
Opt for non-toxic dishwasher tablets that contain water-softening agents. These agents help prevent mineral deposits and scale buildup caused by hard water, improving the cleaning performance of the detergent.
Look for dishwasher tablets that contain citric acid or salt. These ingredients can help combat the effects of hard water by binding to minerals and preventing them from depositing on your dishes.
Do you need a rinse aid with eco-friendly dishwasher tablets?
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate on your dishes, glassware, and dishwasher interior.
Eco-friendly dishwasher detergents may not have built-in water softeners, and in such cases, a rinse aid can help prevent spotting and improve drying performance.
Also, some modern dishwashers come equipped with a rinse aid dispenser and are designed to work optimally with rinse aids.
Check your dishwasher’s manual to see if it recommends using a rinse aid and whether it has a dedicated compartment for it.
What eco certifications to look for in non-toxic dishwasher tablets?
EPA Safer Choice: The Safer Choice label by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that a product’s ingredients have been evaluated for their environmental and human health impacts. It is a mark of safer chemistry, considering factors such as biodegradability and low toxicity.
EWG Verified: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) offers a verification program that assesses the safety and transparency of products, including dishwasher tablets. EWG Verified products meet strict criteria for ingredient disclosure and environmental impact.
Green Seal: The Green Seal certification is awarded to products that meet rigorous environmental and performance standards. It considers factors such as toxicity, biodegradability, and packaging sustainability.
Leaping Bunny (Cruelty-Free): The Leaping Bunny certification ensures that a product and its ingredients are not tested on animals. It is a cruelty-free certification recognized by various animal protection organizations.
USDA Certified Biobased: This certification indicates the percentage of a product’s ingredients derived from renewable resources. Non-toxic dishwasher tablets with a higher biobased content are often considered more environmentally friendly.
This blog post was all about non-toxic dishwasher tablets.
In conclusion, making the switch to non-toxic dishwasher tablets is a small yet significant step towards creating a healthier home and planet.
By opting for formulations free from harmful chemicals like phosphates, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances, we not only safeguard our own well-being but also reduce our environmental footprint.
The 11 non-toxic dishwasher tablets featured in this guide offer a winning combination of effectiveness and eco-friendliness.
With plant-based enzymes, citric acid, and natural surfactants, they tackle tough stains and grease without compromising on safety. Plus, their biodegradable formulas ensure that they break down harmlessly, minimizing their impact on the environment.
By choosing these non-toxic dishwasher tablets, we not only achieve sparkling clean dishes but also contribute to a cleaner, greener future for generations to come. Let’s embrace sustainability and conscious consumer choices as we strive for a healthier home and planet.
If you enjoyed this article on Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets, check out these other articles below!
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