If you’re like me, you probably use a lot of dishwasher detergent. I mean, it’s not like I want my dishes to be dirty or anything! But the fact is that we use so much of it that it adds up to quite a bit of waste. That’s why I decided to switch over to biodegradable dishwasher detergent—and here’s why you should too:
The Dangers of Traditional Dishwasher Detergent
Traditional dishwasher detergents are toxic and contain phosphates, which harm marine life. They can also cause chemical burns to the skin and eyes. The main concern with these types of detergents is that they’re not biodegradable. They stay in landfills for years or decades before breaking down into their original components.
Benefits of Using Biodegradable Dishwasher Detergent
It’s safe for septic tanks.
If you have a septic tank, you may be concerned about the chemicals in your dishwasher detergent. Biodegradable detergents come with natural ingredients that break down easily and won’t harm the environment or your plumbing system.
No more stinky dishwashers.
The fragrances used in some dishwasher detergents can harm the environment and your health. If you have an allergy or sensitivity to scents, then this is especially important for you. They add scents to detergents because they mask any unpleasant odours from your dishes or utensils. In addition, many people prefer their dishwashers to smell like something other than chemicals. However, natural fragrances will not only last longer but also be better for both your health and the environment and they’re much easier on the nose!
Safe for greywater systems.
Biodegradable dishwasher detergent is safe to use in greywater systems. Greywater is wastewater from the kitchen, bathroom, and shower that’s reusable on lawns and gardens. However, it should not be for drinking or cooking because it may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals that come from dishes and utensils.
Chemical-free.
Biodegradable dishwasher detergent consists of ingredients that are biodegradable and do not pollute water sources when they break down (or “decompose”). In contrast to traditional chemical cleaners available in homes today which may contain harmful chemicals like phosphates or chlorine bleach. Biodegradable detergents are safe for humans and animals alike.
Natural fragrances.
Many people prefer to use detergents with natural scents, as they can be more pleasant and environmentally friendly than chemical fragrances. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on these products. There are plenty of affordable options available online!
Typical Ingredients in Biodegradable Dishwasher Detergent
D-Limonene
D-Limonene is a natural solvent that comes from citrus rinds. It’s usable as a cleaning agent, degreaser and solvent. D-Limonene is biodegradable, non-toxic and safe for the environment.
Citrus Oils
Citrus oils are plant-based and natural alternatives to phosphates. It is a biodegradable surfactant, which means it can be broken down by bacteria in the environment.
Lauramine Oxide
Lauramine oxide is a detergent additive that removes grease and oil from dishes. It’s also a cleaning agent, foaming agent, and solvent. Lauramine oxide comes from lauric acid. This compound can dissolve both fats and oils in water at room temperature. When you wash your dishes with biodegradable dishwasher detergent containing lauramine oxide, it will leave behind no residue whatsoever when you rinse them out with hot water.
Zeolite A
Zeolite A is a naturally occurring mineral that has been present for hundreds of years as a natural water softener. It works by absorbing minerals and metals from water, so they can be flushed out of the system. The zeolite absorbs these minerals in much the same way as other materials in your dishwasher detergent will remove dirt and grease from dishes.
Coconut Fatty Acid Diethanolamide
Coconut Fatty Acid Diethanolamide is a surfactant, which means it helps break down grease and oils in your dishes. It’s also present in cosmetics, shampoos and conditioners, soaps and detergents. It uses combined coconut fatty acids with diethanolamine (DEA) followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide (lye). The resulting product is then filtered to remove impurities before being dried into flakes or crystals that look like this:
Plant oils
Plant oils are a great alternative to petroleum-based products. They’re better for the environment and are healthier for you too! Plant oils are present in many different products, including dishwasher detergent.
Lactic acid
Lactic acid is a natural substance that comes from milk. It’s versatile in many products, including food and cosmetics. Lactic acid is a natural organic acid that is present in soaps and detergents. It’s also a byproduct of lactose fermentation, which occurs when certain bacteria break down milk sugar (lactose) into smaller molecules like lactic acid, carbon dioxide and water. Lactic acid is a product of lactic acid bacteria, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp bulgaricus.
Plant-based glycerine
Glycerin is an organic compound that comes from plants, and it’s a natural emulsifier. It’s also a byproduct of soapmaking, which means it doesn’t have to be manufactured separately. They add Glycerol to detergents as an ingredient because it helps keep dishes moist and prevents them from drying out in the dishwasher.
Plant-based glycerine has many uses outside of cleaning products. For example, it can be used in cosmetics as a moisturizer or humectant (a substance that attracts water). It can also be used as an anti-freeze agent for cars in cold climates!
The Best Biodegradable Dishwasher Detergent You Can Buy On Amazon
ADUSTMAN
ADUSTMAN Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent is a great option if you are looking for an environmentally friendly, safe and effective dishwasher detergent. The product is also safe for septic systems, which means that it will not harm your plumbing or clog your drains. This product has been formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on your hands, clothes and dishes.
The best part about this product is how well it works at removing stains from your dishes. Even those stubborn baked-on food stains! Your kitchenware will look new again after using this eco-friendly detergent!
ATTITUDE
ATTITUDE Dish Detergent is made in the USA, and it’s biodegradable. It cleans dishes and rinses clean of residue so you don’t have to worry about any chemicals lingering on your dishware. This detergent is safe for septic systems, which makes it an excellent option if you live in an area where there aren’t many options for green cleaners.
This product comes in a 32 oz bottle that should last for quite some time–the manufacturer estimates one bottle will last about six months or more at full strength (one tablespoon per load). You can also dilute it by half or quarter if you want less sudsing power from your dishwasher soap!
Better Life
If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly dishwasher detergent that won’t break the bank, Better Life Natural Dishwasher Gel Detergent is a great choice. The gel comes in a large bottle and it’s easy to pour into your machine by hand or with the included funnel.
It’s 100% biodegradable and consists of plant-based ingredients that are gentle on both humans and animals (and our planet). It also has no dyes, perfumes or other harsh chemicals–you’ll only find natural ingredients like coconut oil and green tea extract here!
The only downside? There aren’t any scents available yet, but if the scent isn’t important to you then this is worth checking out!
Biokleen
Biokleen Dish Liquid Soap is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dishwashing detergents. It comes from plant-based ingredients, and it’s safe for the environment. The product is non-toxic and has been certified by the USDA as biodegradable. This is great for people with sensitive skin because it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances that can irritate their skin or cause allergic reactions.
The soap has a pleasant smell that comes from natural essential oils like lavender, lemon grass and rosemary. The scent won’t overpower your food while you’re cooking. It will just add a touch of fragrance when you open up your cupboard doors!
Ecos
Ecos Auto Dishwasher Gel is a biodegradable dishwasher detergent that’s free of phosphates, chlorine and dyes. It also contains no petroleum-based ingredients, animal byproducts or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
That last one sounds like it should be good for you, but in fact, SLS has been linked to skin irritations and even cancer. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) gives Ecos’ product an “A” rating for being safe for humans and the environment–and their website even lists each ingredient that goes into their products.
Love Home and Planet
Love Home and Planet Dishwasher Detergent is a biodegradable dishwasher detergent that’s free of phosphates and chlorine. It’s non-toxic, non-allergenic, environmentally friendly and cruelty-free! This product comes from plant extracts and coconut oil, which means it’s safe for you and your family but also gentle on the environment.
Method
Method Gel Dish Soap is a biodegradable dish soap that’s gentle on your hands and the environment. This eco-friendly product is free of dyes, phosphates, chlorine and petroleum-based ingredients. It leaves dishes sparkling clean while leaving no residue behind. Safe for septic systems as well!
Palmolive
If you’re looking for a biodegradable dishwasher detergent that will help reduce your carbon footprint, this is the product for you. It’s a gel formula that is designed to clean and shine your dishes without harsh chemicals or fragrances. It features an exclusive blend of plant-based ingredients including coconut oil and tapioca starch to effectively remove tough stains from dishes while leaving them shiny and streak-free.
The Palmolive Eco Dishwasher Detergent Gel also has a 24-hour-release formula that keeps your kitchen smelling fresh all day long! The company claims it’s safe on all types of dishwashers including high-efficiency models too!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a good, biodegradable dishwasher detergent that will do its job without leaving behind harmful chemicals or fragrances, then any one of these options would be a great choice. We think all of these are the best options because they get everything clean and smell nice without any harsh chemicals. But if you’re looking for something more eco-friendly, sustainable, or environmentally friendly, you better check them out!
- Eco Friendly Sustainable Materials: Crafting a Cleaner World
- Eco Friendly Kitchen Trash Bags Biodegradable: Making Waste Disappear Responsibly
- Eco Friendly Green Packaging: Sustainable Solutions for a Better Tomorrow
- Eco Friendly Trash Bags: Rethinking Waste Management
- Eco Friendly Mailers: Shipping Solutions with a Conscience