10 best natural dishwasher detergent

Natural dishwasher detergents are cleaning agents specifically formulated for use in automatic dishwashers. They are made from natural, eco-friendly ingredients and are free from synthetic chemicals and harsh additives. Here are some commonly used natural ingredients and types of natural dishwasher detergents:

  1. Baking Soda:

    • Baking soda is an excellent natural abrasive and can help scrub away food residues and stains from dishes. It also helps to soften water, making it easier for the detergent to clean.
  2. Borax:

    • Borax is a natural mineral compound that is used as a cleaning agent. It helps to remove grease and stains from dishes.
  3. Washing Soda:

    • Also known as soda ash, washing soda is a natural alkaline compound that helps to break down grease and food residues.
  4. Citric Acid:

    • Citric acid is a natural acid derived from citrus fruits. It helps to remove mineral deposits and stains from dishes.
  5. Salt:

    • Coarse salt, like kosher salt, can be used as an abrasive agent to help scrub away tough food residues.
  6. Essential Oils:

    • Some natural dishwasher detergents may include essential oils like lemon, lavender, or citrus for their natural fragrance and antibacterial properties.
  7. Vinegar:

    • White vinegar is a natural acid that helps to remove stains, mineral deposits, and grease from dishes.
  8. Castile Soap:

    • Castile soap is a natural, vegetable-based soap that can be used in small amounts to help clean dishes.
  9. Enzymes:

    • Some natural dishwasher detergents may contain enzyme-based formulas that help to break down food particles and stains.
  10. DIY Recipes:

    • Many people make their own natural dishwasher detergents using a combination of the above ingredients.Common recipes may include a mixture of baking soda, borax, citric acid, and essential oils.

It's important to note that natural dishwasher detergents may not be as potent as commercial, chemical-based alternatives. Therefore, they might require a bit more pre-rinsing or soaking for heavily soiled dishes. Additionally, individual results may vary based on factors like water hardness and dishwasher type.

Before using any natural dishwasher detergent, it's a good idea to consult the manufacturer's instructions and do a spot test to ensure compatibility with your dishwasher and dishes.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best natural dishwasher detergent on the market
  

Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Soap Tablets, Citrus, 45 Count

Method

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Power away stubborn, stuck on food with these easy to use automatic dishwasher tablets. Made with plant based & mineral ingredients, our biodegradable, phosphate free formula effectively washes your dirty dishes, glasses and flatware without harming the planet. Now that's what we call clean.

  • Powers away stuck on food & gets dishes sparkling clean

User questions & answers

Question: After cleaning, can use use diswasher water for plants
Answer: I'm no botanist but I'm pretty sure you can. Grey water is fine as long as you're not eating root vegetables watered with it.
Question: Is this or another pod a substitute for Cascade Platinum, but without the chemical stench? I don't want the hard water stains or the stink
Answer: I have a Miele and you can't use pods. I have tried all kinds of ECO friendly soap and found 7th generation works well. I also hate any smell in dish or clothes washers! When I talked to the Miele rep he said to only use a teaspoon of dish soap no matter what brand. I can now use regular stinky Cascade and I don't get any odor! Good luck
Question: Are the tablets individual wrappers recyclable
Answer: Type 5 is the same a plastic as bottle caps. These packets are small and thin. The large type 5 tub my generic tablets come it has a better chance of getting recycled. Unfortunate feel good do nothing product
Question: Do they make a version without the individual plastic wrappers? i can't recycle those where i live
Answer: I’m seeing an option now for boxes of loose powder, but the only option available (at this time) is an 8 pack of 48oz boxes for $66. If you like buying in bulk this seems like a good alternative to the individually wrapped version, though, although you’ll have to measure it out yourself or eyeball it instead of the convenience of tablets.

Product features

Ecover Natural Automatic Dishwashing Tablets

Power away stubborn, stuck-on food with these easy-to-use automatic dishwasher tablets. Made with plant-based & mineral ingredients, our biodegradable, phosphate-free formula effectively washes your dirty dishes, glasses and flatware without harming the planet. Now that’s what we call clean.

At Ecover we’re on a mission to pioneer clean. For more than 35 years, we have been creating powerful cleaning products that won’t harm the planet or the people on it.

Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel with Powerful Citric Acid, Lemon Scent, 42 oz (6 Pack)

Seventh Generation

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Caring today for the next seven generations with Seventh Generation dishwasher liquid. Dishwasher Gel is septic safe.

  • Seventh Generation Lemon Dishwasher Detergent Gel advanced cleaning technology cuts through grease leaving dishes streak-free and sparkling clean
  • A dishwasher detergent with a safe* and effective formula made with plant-based ingredients
  • This Dishwasher gel is free of synthetic fragrances, chlorine, phosphate, and dyes
  • USDA Certified 65% Bio-based natural dishwasher detergent liquid
  • The lemon scent of this dish detergent is derived from 100% essential oils and botanical extract
  • Caring today for the next seven generations with Seventh Generation dishwasher liquid

User questions & answers

Question: Does it have the latest formula cz earlier change they made in their formulation used to leave glasses cloudy
Answer: Dear Friend, Thanks for your question. Phomemo PM-201 shipping label printer compatible with both of rolls and fanfold thermal labels, the fanfold labels feed from the back. Thanks. Best wishes Phomemo Service Team
Question: Can it be used as standalone dish soap as well
Answer: Dear friend, Thanks for your question. Phomemo thermal label printer can't work with your smartphone, it can only work with your mac book or your windows conputer. Besides, you can download the mac driver from the Phomemo Official Website(phomemo.com). Thanks Best Regards Phomemo Service Team
Question: Is this product paraben-free
Answer: Dear Friend, Thanks for your question. Phomemo PM-201 thermal label printer compatible with Windows & Mac OS, so you can use the printer with your MacBook Air. Thanks. Best wishes Phomemo Service Team
Question: Is this product tested on animals
Answer: Dear Friend, Thanks for your question. One-step to install the driver. The 4x6 shipping printer driver is included in the U disk; just put U disk in the computer, install then the printer gets ready to work. Moreover, you can download the driver from the Phomemo Official Website (phomemo.com). Thanks. Best wishes Phomemo Service Team

Seventh Generation Fragrance Free Dishwasher Detergent Pack, 45 Count, 2 Pack

Seventh Generation

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

When life is busy, don’t let messes slow you down. Seventh Generation dish detergent packs offer a convenient and powerful clean that blasts through tough residue to leave your dishes streak-free with just one wash, no pre-rinse necessary. Our single dose dishwasher packs come in a dissolvable PVA film that can be tossed right into the dishwasher for a hassle-free alternative to traditional powders and gels – no need to unwrap or measure. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Dishwasher Detergent Pods are made with plant-based ingredients free of fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and chlorine bleach. Because trust us, we can handle the job without them.



For more than 25 years, Seventh Generation has been thoughtfully formulating safe and effective plant-based products that work. Really well. Our dishwasher soap uses powerful plant-based ingredients like surfactants and enzymes to break down tough residue and lift away food leaving your dishes sparkling clean. So how does it all work? The dishwasher tablets enzymes cut through grease and food by breaking down starch and protein-based residue while the surfactants remove dirt and grease by holding the molecules in suspension so they can wash away. Yes, even those fussy egg stains.



Based in Vermont, Seventh Generation is proud to be a Certified B Corporation. B Corps are certified to be better for workers, better for communities, and better for the environment. By choosing Seventh Generation products, you’re joining us in nurturing the health of the next seven generations.

  • Enzyme rich formula cuts through tough grease and food residue to leave dishes sparkling clean
  • Free of fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and chlorine bleach
  • Convenient single dose dishwasher pods, just toss right into the dishwasher
  • USDA certified bio based product 78%
  • Dishwasher packs come in an easy to use resealable pouch
  • Caring today for the next seven generations

User questions & answers

Question: Are these a pod of liquid or a solid powder
Answer: I just got only 1 bottle instead of 3. I'm contacting the seller to get this resolved. Otherwise I feel cheated for having the most expensive bottle of dishwasher detergent ever.
Question: Do they work well with hard water
Answer: That would be 45 ounces in each bottle. So 3 bottles should = 135 ounces. More than enough to to coat your dishwasher (and dishes) with a disgusting white residue!
Question: Does the packet wrapper dissolve in the washer or do you have to unwrap it
Answer: You fill the little detergent holder in the door. It's pretty small and I'd say you'd only get about a tablespoon of the stuff in there, maybe less. But just fill the little dish. Then close it. (I don't have a Bosch, so I don't know how it closes.) Turn your dishwasher on and away you go. The Finish All-in-One tablets work just as well. Not sure why they recommended it for the smell. I find that I have to use dishwasher cleaner now and then (you can find that at any grocery or big box store) to get rid of the smell when we have been eating too much fish. But the Finish detergent is really excellent, especially with dried-on foods.
Question: Is it cruelty free
Answer: Shake it up before your first use. It should be fairly runny, but not watery.

Cascade Complete ActionPacs Dishwasher Detergent, Fresh Scent

Cascade

Based on 58 reviews Check latest price

Product description

abc

  • Tougher than baked-on food messes
  • No pre-wash needed. Cleans 24-hour stuck-on food so well you can skip the pre-wash. This can save up to 15 gallons of water per dishwasher load!
  • For best results, use with Cascade Rinse Aid and Dishwasher Cleaner
  • No premeasuring needed: Cascade ActionPacs are convenient and easy to use. No finicky wrapping.
  • Dissolves quickly to unleash cleaning power early in the cycle

Better Life Natural Dishwasher Gel Detergent, 30oz (Pack of 2), 24073

Better Life

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our natural, ultra-concentrated dishwasher gel powers through stubborn stains and stuck-on food, leaving no trace of film or cloudiness behind - just dazzlingly beautiful dishes, glasses, and utensils. Don't be surprised if the dish runs away with the spoon.

  • Plant-Based Cleaning Ingredients: Formulated with powerful natural cleaning agents like soap bark, corn, and coconut.
  • Powerful Clean, Naturally: Our dishwasher gel combines plant-based power and peace of mind, leaving your dishes sparkling clean and smelling fresh, naturally!
  • Shake and Squirt: Into your automatic dishwasher’s detergent cup. Perfect for dishes, glasses, utensils, pots, and pans splattered with anything your kitchen can cook up!
  • Cuts Through Grease & Grime: Our natural, ultra-concentrated dishwasher gel powers through stubborn stains and stuck-on food–just dazzlingly beautiful dishes, glasses, and utensils.
  • Cruelty Free: BETTER LIFE is a Leaping Bunny certified company that never tests on animals.

User questions & answers

Question: I have a GE profile dishwasher, and there are slots: one for CASCADE and one for JETDRY. Do I load the dish gel in the JETDRY compartment
Answer: According to the imprint on the bottom of the container, yes.
Question: Hi, I'm very interested in ordering your product, but need to know if it has a fragrance, as I am sensitive to fragrances. Thank you
Answer: No. But as with most “push-to-dispense” bottles, the dispenser is in a “locked” position, so you have to turn it to unlock before using the first time. The bottles came in a sealed box.
Question: How does this do with hard water? I'm looking for something to replace Cascade Platinum
Answer: These products are very similar the Ultra Power Plus will have a little more cleaning power compared to the Powerful Clean version.
Question: What are the ingredients
Answer: It is fragrance free.

Product features

Better Life Natural Dishwasher Gel Detergent

Our natural, ultra-concentrated dishwasher gel powers through stubborn stains and stuck-on food, leaving no trace of film or cloudiness behind – just dazzlingly beautiful dishes, glasses, and utensils. Don’t be surprised if the dish runs away with the spoon.

Shake and squirt

Into your automatic dishwasher’s detergent cup. Perfect for dishes, glasses, utensils, pots, and pans splattered with anything your kitchen can cook up!

Ingredients

Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fresh Citrus Scent, 70 count

Seventh Generation

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Have a tough job? We have an easy answer. Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Dishwasher Detergent Packs feature our powerful grease-fighting formula to leave your dishes with a sparkling, streak-free shine. This dish detergent’s hardworking enzymes power away 48-hour stuck-on food, while oxygen bleach fights tough stains – all without the use of synthetic fragrances, dyes, phosphates, or chlorine bleach. Our single dose dishwasher packs come in a dissolvable PVA film that can be tossed right in the dishwasher for a hassle-free alternative to traditional powders and gels – no need to unwrap or measure. Because when things get messier, you shouldn’t have to work harder. That’s our job. For more than 25 years, Seventh Generation has been thoughtfully formulating Safe

  • Dual action hardworking formula powers away 48-hour stuck-on food and fights tough stains
  • 0% synthetic fragrances, dyes, chlorine bleach, or phosphates
  • Convenient single dose dishwasher packs, just toss right into the dishwasher
  • Septic safe, biodegradable, and USDA Certified Biobased Product 80%
  • Dishwasher packs come in an 70ct Tub designed for compact, easy storage

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference between ultra power plus and powerful clean
Answer: No
Question: Is this product fragrance free
Answer: Yes, These are indeed authentic. If you purchase from us our Gucci's come with their case, cloth, manufacturer pamphlets and card of authenticity. Gucci's are manufactured by Kering Eyewear and we distribute directly from them. We can also provide invoices upon requests. I hope this helped. -GE
Question: How do I get a refund or the rest of my shipment to replace all the damaged ones
Answer: The "P" means polarize lens
Question: Dishwasher is stainless steel inside, will 7th Generation etch or harm the metal
Answer: I have not hiked with these glassses. But I have driven long distance with them and have not noticed them sliding. Check nose width on frames

Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Packs, Fragrance Free, 73 Count

Seventh Generation

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

When life is busy, don’t let messes slow you down. Seventh Generation dishwasher packs offer a convenient and powerful clean that blasts through tough residue to leave your dishes streak free with just one wash, no pre rinse necessary. Our single dose dishwasher packs come in a dissolvable PVA film that can be tossed right into the dishwasher for a hassle free alternative to traditional powders and gels – no need to unwrap or measure. Our new tub packaging is fully recyclable and designed with storage and freshness in mind – the shape fits neatly in tight spaces, and the flip top closure keeps pack nice and fresh. Seventh Generation Fragrance Free Dishwasher Detergent Packs are made with plant based ingredients free of fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and chlorine bleach. Because trust us, we can handle the job without them. For more than 25 years, Seventh Generation has been thoughtfully formulating Safe.

  • Enzyme rich formula cuts through tough grease and food residue to leave dishes sparkling clean
  • Free of fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and chlorine bleach
  • Convenient single dose dishwasher packs, just toss right into the dishwasher
  • USDA Certified Bio-based product 78 percent
  • Tub packaging designed for compact, easy storage and freshness

User questions & answers

Question: Is this product safe for septic tanks
Answer: Hi: Yes, our products are safe for greywater and septic systems. Best, Katie Client Relations @ Puracy [email protected]
Question: What is the difference between powerful clean and ultra power plus
Answer: Hi: Our Natural Dishwasher Packs are made with biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol. This will dissolve completely in the dishwasher. Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any other questions. Best, Ivy Customer Experience @ Puracy
Question: Is the container recylable and if so, what number is it
Answer: Hi: I'm sorry this product has left soap residue in your dishwasher. We recommend setting a cup with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar on the top rack and running a cycle to reduce the leftover foam. If you don't see an improvement, please reach out to us at [email protected]. Best, Katie Client Relations @ Puracy [email protected]
Question: Are these powder or gel packs
Answer: Hi: No, we never test on animals and we are Certified Cruelty-Free by PETA and Leaping Bunny. All of our products are vegan. Best, Kaitlin Client Relations @ Puracy

Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel with Powerful Citric Acid, Free & Clear, 42 oz (6 Pack)

Seventh Generation

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dishes should be odorless and clean after you wash them, right? We think so too. That's why Free & Clear Seventh Generation Dish Detergent Liquid Gel uses plant-based enzyme blends for high cleaning power without the use of dyes and fragrances. This dishwasher soap is free of phosphates and chlorine bleach, and it's biodegradable so you can always feel good about what you dish out. It is truly a great choice amongst the dishwasher detergents. For more than 25 years, Seventh Generation has been thoughtfully formulating safe and effective plant-based products that work. Really well, thanks to which this dishwasher detergent liquid is really effective. Our dishwasher liquid uses powerful plant-based ingredients like surfactants and enzymes to break down tough residue and lift away food leaving your dishes sparkling clean. Yet you can call it a natural dish soap. So how does it all work? The enzymes in this natural dish soap cut through grease and food by breaking down starch and protein-based residue while the surfactants remove dirt and grease by holding the molecules in suspension, so they can wash away. Yes, even those fussy egg stains. That's what our dishwasher soap can do. Based in Vermont, Seventh Generation is proud to be a Certified B Corporation. B Corps are certified to be better for workers, better for communities, and better for the environment. By choosing Seventh Generation products, you’re joining us in nurturing the health of the next seven generations. *Safe when used as directed

  • Seventh Generation Free and Clear Advanced dishwasher gel cuts through grease leaving dishes streak-free and sparkling clean
  • Safe* and effective formula of this liquid dishwasher detergent is made with plant-based ingredients
  • Dishwasher detergent liquid free of fragrances, chlorine, phosphates, and dyes
  • This Seventh Generation dishwasher soap has USDA Certified Biobased Product 65%
  • This dishwasher detergent is made in the USA with US and imported ingredients
  • Natural dish soap caring today for the next seven generations

User questions & answers

Question: For normal size apartment dishwashers (two racks), how much do I need to put in? Like quarter-size? or double-quarter size
Answer: Good Morning! The Sit, Snack, and Go booster is designed for use beginning around 6 months of age. The child should be able to sit up unassisted as the back does not recline.
Question: Will it ruin a stainless steel dishwasher inside? Is it ok with metals
Answer: Hello! I apologize for the delayed response, but I am happy to answer your question. The distance from the base of the booster to the sitting surface with the legs folded under is 3 ¼ inches. The distance from the base of the booster to the sitting surface with the legs open is 5 ¼ inches. If you have any additional questions, you are welcome to contact us directly at [email protected], using AMAZON in the subject line.
Question: Does this detergent have Clorox in it
Answer: The green legs are folded underneath the seat. Turn it over to release the legs.
Question: I see soapy spots on the bottle after wash.Any similar experiences
Answer: They seem to be the same. One daughter has the bumbo and one the tykes. They BOTH prefer the tykes as it does not pinch the baby’s thighs

Biokleen Free & Clear Dishwashing Detergent- 64 Loads - Powder, Concentrated, Phosphate & Chlorine Free, Eco-Friendly, Non-Toxic, No Artificial Fragrance, Colors or Preservatives

Bi-O-Kleen

Based on 841 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our everyday cleaning choices affect our health, the health of our families, and the health of our planet. Biokleen products are concentrated in order to leave the smallest footprint on the environment. Concentrated = Fewer Fillers = Less Waste = Less Packaging = Less Energy Used in Shipping = More Value for Everyone. Our Free & Clear Automatic Powder is fragrance free and, like all Biokleen products, is clear of dyes and brighteners. Plant-based surfactants gets off tough baked-on-food and grease, while natural oxygen bleach helps remove stains. Dishes come out spotless and free of chemical taste and residue. Say goodbye to phosphate and chlorine and hello to a clean dishes. Free of fragrance and dyes.

  • Our Free & Clear Automatic Powder is fragrance free and, like all Biokleen products, is clear of dyes and brighteners
  • Plant-based surfactants gets off tough baked-on-food and grease, while natural oxygen bleach helps remove stains
  • Dishes come out spotless and free of chemical taste and residue
  • Say goodbye to phosphate and chlorine and hello to a clean dishes
  • Eco-Friendly, Non-Toxic, Plant-Based, No Artificial Fragrance, Colors or Preservatives
  • Kind to those with chemical sensitivities and allergies
  • No negative effects on rivers, streams, plants or wildlife
  • Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: Why on earth is this now restricted in california??? i used to order it all the time but now i cannot select a ca shipping address
Answer: Its a single torch
Question: Is this okay for septic tanks
Answer: There should be a standard butane fill valve on the bottom. If you never filled a lighter before you should google it.
Question: Does this product come sealed? Mine arrived with no seal, just a screw on lid
Answer: There is a red sliding switch to adjust the flame strength on the side
Question: Why is this unable to ship to a California Address
Answer: There are two red "switches on the side of the gun. Smaller one on the bottom controls flame strength (fuel flow). The further to the right you slide it, the stronger (longer) the flame.

Product features

Free & Clear Automatic Dish Powder

Mineral-based technologies break down grease and food particles while oxygen bleach helps remove stains. Say goodbye to phosphate and chlorine and hello to naturally clean dishes.

Ingredients

Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Sulfate, Zeolite, Sodium Silicate, Sodium Citrate (plant based chelator), P(AA/NaHS03)_Na Salt, Hydrogen Peroxide, Amylase Blend, Protease Blend, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride

One Man’s Vision

When Jim Rimer realized what was inside some of the cleaning products he was selling, it shook him to the core. It was the spark that sent him on a mission to create cleaning products that are safe for people, their homes, and the environment.

In 1989, Biokleen was born when Jim started making cleaning products in his garage with a drum and an ore. He even filled bottles by candle light when he couldn't pay the electricity bill. Word started getting around about the main who made plant-based cleaning products that actually worked!

It's over 30 years later and Biokleen is still committed to its cleaning for good mission and continues to win over loyal consumers.

Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets Zero, 25 Count, 17.6 Ounce

Method

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Power away stubborn, stuck on food with these easy to use automatic dishwasher tablets. Made with plant based & mineral ingredients, our biodegradable, phosphate free formula effectively washes your dirty dishes, glasses and flatware without harming the planet. Now that's what we call clean.

  • Dishwasher Soap
  • Fragrance Free
  • Ecover

User questions & answers

Question: Country of origin
Answer: Product of Belgium. Made for EcoVer in San Francisco CA
Question: Do these smell? I can't use Cascade any more because of allergies and it leaves a horrible (to me) smell and taste on plastic
Answer: There is absolutely no smell or residue with these tablets, I switched from Cascade to these for the same reason. And they actually get the dishes clean!
Question: Is this product tested on animals
Answer: Ecover has been acquired by SC Johnson. Ecover still does NOT test their products on animals. They have lost their endorsement from Naturewatch because Naturewatch is unhappy with them because SC Johnson does do animal testing on other products they sell. Ecover is still Leaping Bunny certified because it does not test their products on animals.
Question: Are the tablets individually wrapped, or just all in one bag? I stopped using another brand because I don't like unnecessary waste
Answer: Yes, individually wrapped in "recyclable" not "recycled" plastic. Note that it is NOT recyclable in curbside collection in NYC, where only hard plastic is recycled. I will not be buying this brand again

Product features

Ecover Natural Automatic Dishwashing Tablets

Power away stubborn, stuck-on food with these easy-to-use automatic dishwasher tablets. Made with plant-based & mineral ingredients, our biodegradable, phosphate-free formula effectively washes your dirty dishes, glasses and flatware without harming the planet. Now that’s what we call clean.

At Ecover we’re on a mission to pioneer clean. For more than 35 years, we have been creating powerful cleaning products that won’t harm the planet or the people on it.

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