In today’s environmentally conscious world, the quest for eco-friendly solutions extends to every corner of our daily lives. One often-overlooked area where sustainability is important is in our kitchens, where the dishwasher detergent we choose can make a significant impact on our planet. In our pursuit of clean, sparkling dishes, we shouldn’t compromise on the health of our environment. Traditional dishwasher detergents often contain harsh chemicals that harm aquatic ecosystems, contribute to water pollution, and can irritate your skin. In contrast, eco-friendly options are formulated with biodegradable ingredients, reducing their environmental impact. These detergents are typically free from phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances, making them safer for both you and the planet. By choosing eco-friendly dishwasher detergents, you not only help protect aquatic life but also reduce your carbon footprint and limit your exposure to toxic chemicals.
Criteria for Choosing Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergents
What Makes a Detergent Eco-Friendly?
- Biodegradable Ingredients: Eco-friendly dishwasher detergents should contain biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally in the environment without harming ecosystems. This helps reduce the build up of harmful chemicals in water and soil.
- Plant-Based Ingredients: Many eco-friendly dishwasher detergents use plant-based ingredients, such as enzymes and surfactants, which are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment than synthetic chemicals.
- Recyclable or Reusable Packaging: Eco-friendly products often come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging to reduce waste and promote sustainable disposal.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: Eco-friendly brands should be cruelty-free and do not test their products on animals. They may also be vegan, meaning they do not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
- No Harsh Chemicals: Eco-friendly detergents are formulated without harsh chemicals like chlorine, artificial fragrances, and synthetic dyes, which can be harmful to both the environment and human health.
Ingredients to Avoid
- Phosphates: Chemicals that can pollute waterways and cause algae to grow out of control and negatively impact other aquatic life.
- Artificial Fragrance: A cocktail of chemicals that can cause allergic reactions, rashes, and are harmful to the environment.
- Dyes: These chemicals can trigger rashes and allergies and most are proven endocrine disruptors and carcinogens.
- Polyacrylates: Exposures to acrylates have been related to eye, throat and skin reactions as well as more serious health consequences such as reproductive toxicity, cancer, neurological damage, development issues, organ system toxicity, cellular damage.
- Sodium Hypochlorite: This is another name for bleach.
- Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA): PVA is used to create a thin single-use plastic wrapping for dishwasher tablets. While it does biodegrade in certain conditions, when those conditions aren’t present, it will persist in our waterways and ultimately our environment.
Top 10 Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergents for 2025
1. Puracy Natural Dishwasher Detergent Packs
The all-star winner. Gentle to you, your family and the environment. Plus best bit – this won’t break the bank. Puracy Dishwasher Detergent comes in neat pre-dosed detergent tabs. Sparkling clean results are almost guaranteed by a combination of natural/plant-derived detergent technologies. First up – cleaning enzymes. Think of enzymes like Pac-men. They gobble stains. Some enzymes gobble up oily stains and other enzymes gobble up dirt based stains. Puracy Dishwasher Detergent uses 2 enzymes for even better results. An environmentally friendly antiscalant called Carboxymethyl Inulin – if you live in a hard water area and are plagued by water stains – get Puracy Dishwasher Detergent – it’s the one for you. Shop on Amazon
2. Dropps UltraWash Plus Dishwasher Pods
Dropps UltraWash Plus biobased dishwasher detergent pods claim to give big-brand detergents a run for their money. Along with being USDA biobased certified, the company’s cleaning products contain zero dyes. And as far as we know, these pods are the only multi-chambered pods available in a fragrance-free version. Dropps also uses ingredients found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice list, and its products come in recyclable cardboard packaging. After running hundreds of exhaustive and sometimes smelly tests, we’ve seen some excellent detergents that get even the stickiest and dirtiest of dishes clean. For the most part, Dropps UltraWash Plus bested the grossest stuff, eliminating egg yolk on prestained porcelain tiles and buffing crusty casserole dishes back to their formerly shiny selves. It also easily washed away our splatters of meat sauce, avocado, burnt milk, and Bloody Mary mix. Shop on Amazon
3. Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Packs
Seventh Generation’s Dishwasher Detergent Packs are not only effective but also responsibly made, so you can feel good about the impact you’re making on the planet. They are free from phosphates and chlorine bleach, making them safe for the environment and your dishes. It’s great to know that you can have sparkling clean dishes without sacrificing your commitment to sustainability. This human and environmentally friendly pack comes at a premium price but could be worth it for those with fragrance sensitivities. Shop on Amazon
4. Ecover Zero Dishwasher Soap Powder
So if you’re looking for a product that is both effective and gentle on your dishes and the environment, give Ecover Zero Dishwasher Soap Powder a try. You won’t be disappointed! Ecover says their dishwasher detergent is phosphate-free, biodegradable, and fish friendly. In fact, I think it cleans better than the pods I was using before. The detergent comes in a simple cardboard box. No plastic. Shop on Amazon
5. Biokleen Free & Clear Dishwashing Detergent
Biokleen Free & Clear Dishwashing Detergent offers a high-quality solution for anyone looking to keep their dishes clean without subjecting them to harsh chemicals. This innovative product utilizes a unique blend of plant-based enzymes and powerful cleaning agents to break down tough grime and leave your dishes sparkling clean. Unlike other detergents that can irritate your skin and cause allergic reactions, Biokleen Free & Clear Dishwashing Detergent is completely free from artificial fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. With its eco-friendly formula and gentle cleaning power, it’s no wonder that Biokleen Free & Clear Dishwashing Detergent is a top choice for health-conscious consumers. Shop on Amazon
6. Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder
My overall verdict on Nellie’s is that it’s excellent, and I’ll be purchasing more of this in the future! Sodium Chloride, Sodium Carbonate, Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Percarbonate, Sodium Metasilicate, Cocamidopropyl, Betaine, Sodium Silicate, Protease. When shopping for a dishwasher detergent for hard water, you should look for one that contains a sodium-based chemical as the main ingredient. This is because it will act as a water softener by creating a reaction with sodium ions that ultimately reduce buildup that lingers on dishes. Essentially, it turns hard water soft. From the detergents I listed, Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder is the best for hard water because sodium chloride and sodium carbonate are the two first ingredients in it. Shop on Amazon
7. Better Life Dishwasher Gel
Overall, Better Life Gel performed near the top of the pack, and I have no hesitation recommending the product to friends, family and readers. Potassium cocoate (natural castile soap), purified water, sodium citrate (mineral derived), coco-glucoside (plant derived), sodium silicate (mineral derived), decyl glucoside (plant derived), quillaja saponaria bark (soap bark) extract, glycerin (vegetable), sodium carbonate (mineral derived), xanthan gum (vegetable), sorbitan oleate (plant derived), natural enzyme blend (less than 5%), citric acid (for pH adjustment, plant derived). Better Life Dishwasher Gel scores an A according to the Environmental Working Group’s cleaning products database. Shop on Amazon
8. Cleancult Dishwasher Pods
Experience truly clean and spotless dishes with Cleancult Dishwasher Pods. These dishwasher detergent pods are made from coconut surfactants and wrapped in a dissolvable film, leaving no chemical residue behind. With a water soluble wrapper, each pod delivers a complete clean in every cycle. The lemongrass scent adds a refreshing touch to your dishes, and the chemical-free formula ensures no crumbs, leaks, or sticky residue. Made with sustainable choices, these pods come in 100% recyclable paper packaging, making them an eco-friendly alternative. Shop on Amazon
9. Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods
Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods are a natural and effective alternative to traditional dishwasher detergents. Powered by earth- and plant-derived ingredients, these pods cut through grease and stuck-on food stains to leave dishes sparkling clean without the use of harsh chemicals. The biodegradable formula is safe for the planet and contains no microplastics. Each pod provides enough cleaning power for a full load of dishes and works well with all types of water. With a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula, Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods are a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Shop on Amazon
10. Tru Earth Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
Cleaning dishes is never fun, but it’s a necessary task for every household. Fortunately, Tru Earth has recently launched its dishwasher detergent tablets to make the process a little bit easier. These tablets are both eco-friendly and effective, making them a great choice for any conscious consumer. The compact and lightweight packaging also makes them a convenient option for small spaces or those who need to stock up on cleaners. With their innovative formula, Tru Earth’s dishwasher detergent tablets leave dishes spotless and free of any harmful chemicals. Shop on Amazon
Comparison Table of Top Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergents
| Product | Form | Key Ingredients | Packaging | Hard Water Performance | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puracy Dishwasher Packs | Pods | Plant-based enzymes, Carboxymethyl Inulin | Recyclable | Excellent | $15 for 50 pods |
| Dropps UltraWash Plus | Pods | Biobased enzymes, no dyes | Recyclable cardboard | Good | $18 for 36 pods |
| Seventh Generation Packs | Pods | Plant-based, no phosphates | Recyclable | Moderate | $14 for 45 pods |
| Ecover Zero Powder | Powder | Biodegradable, phosphate-free | Cardboard box | Good | $6 for 48 oz |
| Biokleen Free & Clear | Powder | Plant-based enzymes | Plastic container | Moderate | $10 for 32 oz |
| Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder | Powder | Sodium chloride, sodium carbonate | Recyclable | Excellent | $12 for 50 loads |
| Better Life Gel | Gel | Potassium cocoate, natural enzymes | Recyclable bottle | Good | $10 for 60 oz |
| Cleancult Pods | Pods | Coconut surfactants | Recyclable paper | Moderate | $16 for 32 pods |
| Molly’s Suds Pods | Pods | Plant-derived, no microplastics | Recycled pouch | Good | $15 for 30 pods |
| Tru Earth Tablets | Tablets | Plant-based, no harmful chemicals | Lightweight packaging | Moderate | $14 for 32 tablets |
Testing Scenarios and Performance
How Detergents Were Tested
To assess detergents, we used the most challenging soils we encountered during our dishwasher testing, including baked-on egg, peanut butter, oatmeal, chocolate syrup, rice, and tomato sauce. For each test load, we coated four dinner plates, four salad plates, and two bowls with a variety of foods, and then we microwaved them for five minutes to set the stains. We also replicated a burned-on pasta-and-cheese casserole, and we included lipstick-stained stemware, drinking glasses coated with tomato juice, coffee-stained mugs, and dirty utensils. Using the same dishwasher (the Bosch SHX65CM5N in 2024 and the now-discontinued Miele G5006SCUSS in 2025) for consistency, we ran the dishes through two one-hour cycles with each detergent.
Performance Highlights
- Puracy: Handled baked-on marinara sauce impressively and left no residue or scent. Scored highly for hard water performance.
- Dropps UltraWash Plus: Eliminated egg yolk and crusty casserole stains, performing better than many multi-chambered pods.
- Better Life Gel: No detectable scent, no residue, and scored an A on EWG’s cleaning products database.
- Nellie’s: Excellent for hard water due to sodium-based ingredients, leaving dishes spotless.
- Ecover: Performed well with no plastic packaging, but slightly less effective on greasy stains.
Pros and Cons of Top Picks
Puracy Dishwasher Packs
- Pros: Highly effective, plant-based enzymes, hard water friendly, affordable.
- Cons: Pods use PVA film, which may not fully biodegrade in all conditions.
Dropps UltraWash Plus
- Pros: USDA biobased certified, recyclable packaging, strong cleaning power.
- Cons: Slightly higher price, PVA film concerns.
Seventh Generation Packs
- Pros: Phosphate-free, effective cleaning, eco-conscious brand.
- Cons: Premium price, moderate hard water performance.
Ecover Zero Powder
- Pros: Plastic-free packaging, biodegradable, budget-friendly.
- Cons: Less effective on heavy grease, powder can be messy.
Buying Guide for Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergents
- Check Certifications: Look for detergents that are certified environmentally friendly, such as those with the EPA Safer Choice label or other recognized eco certifications.
- Ingredient Transparency: Opt for products with transparent ingredient lists, avoiding phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances.
- Water Type: For hard water, choose detergents with sodium-based ingredients or antiscalants like Carboxymethyl Inulin.
- Packaging: Prioritize recyclable, biodegradable, or refillable packaging to minimize waste.
- Performance Needs: Ensure the detergent has powerful cleaning properties to remove grease, food particles, and stubborn stains effectively. Consider detergents with enzymes to aid in breaking down tough residues.
- Compatibility: Check if the detergent is suitable for your dishwasher model and performs well with your dish materials (glass, ceramic, stainless steel, or plastic).
For more guidance, visit the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are eco-friendly dishwasher detergents as effective as conventional ones?
Yes, many eco-friendly detergents, like Puracy and Dropps, perform as well as conventional brands in rigorous tests, tackling tough stains like baked-on egg and grease without harmful chemicals.
Do eco-friendly detergents work in hard water?
Detergents like Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder and Puracy are formulated for hard water, using sodium-based ingredients or antiscalants to reduce mineral buildup and ensure clean dishes.
Is PVA in dishwasher pods harmful to the environment?
PVA is biodegradable under specific conditions, but some studies suggest it may persist in waterways if not fully degraded. Choosing powder or gel options like Ecover or Better Life avoids PVA concerns.
How can I reduce waste with dishwasher detergents?
Opt for products with recyclable or biodegradable packaging, like Ecover’s cardboard box or Cleancult’s paper packaging. Refillable options or bulk purchases also minimize waste.
Are these detergents safe for sensitive skin?
Fragrance-free and dye-free options like Molly’s Suds and Biokleen are hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin, reducing the risk of irritation.