What does eco-friendly mean on dishwasher detergent?

On its own, not much. The FTC's Green Guides discourage broad, unqualified claims such as "eco-friendly" without evidence. A useful claim is specific and backed up, for example about packaging, ingredient sourcing or a recognized certification.

What does phosphate-free mean?

That the product does not contain phosphates. Phosphorus is a nutrient that, in large amounts, can contribute to algae growth in lakes and rivers, which is why phosphates in dishwasher detergent have been restricted in many places. Many detergents sold today are already phosphate-free, so check the label rather than assuming.

Are powder, gel or pods cheapest?

It varies by brand and size. Powder is often the lowest per load and lets you adjust the amount, pods are convenient and pre-measured, and gels fall in between. Compare the price per load using the number of loads on the label.

Are the dissolving film pods a problem?

It is debated. The film is a water-soluble plastic, and researchers and companies disagree about how completely it breaks down in wastewater treatment. If this matters to you, look for what the maker actually claims, and consider powder or film-free tablets.

How do I compare dishwasher detergent prices?

Divide the price by the number of loads, or for powder, work out the number of scoops in the box. Use the same number of loads for every product so you can compare them fairly.

Is dishwasher detergent safe around kids and pets?

Dishwasher detergent can be harmful if swallowed or if it gets in the eyes. Keep it out of reach, store it in its original container and follow the label. If someone swallows it, contact poison control or a doctor.

Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent Guide

To shop for a more eco-friendly dishwasher detergent, look for specific claims and recognized certifications, and compare powder, gel and pods by price per load.

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This page helps you read labels and compare prices. We do not say that any particular product is eco-friendly, and a label claim is worth checking. The results you get also depend on your dishwasher and your water.

Powder, gel or pods

Powder. Often the lowest cost per load, and you can adjust the amount. It can clump if stored in damp places, and the dose is not pre-measured.
Gel (liquid). Easy to pour and dose. It may cost more per load than powder, and results can differ between brands.
Pods or tablets. Pre-measured and convenient. They cost more per load in many cases. Many pods use a dissolving film, and that film is debated (see below). Some tablets are sold without it.

The film on pods: a debated topic

Many dishwasher pods are wrapped in a water-soluble film, often made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). It is designed to dissolve in the wash. Researchers, manufacturers and environmental groups do not fully agree on how completely this film breaks down in wastewater treatment, and the picture can differ by place. We are not taking a side here. If it matters to you, read what the maker actually claims and how they support it, or use powder, gel or film-free tablets.

Reading eco claims

"Eco-friendly" and "green" without detail are weak claims. The FTC's Green Guides discourage unqualified statements like these.
Phosphate-free. A specific claim. Phosphorus can contribute to algae growth in waterways, and phosphates in dishwasher detergent have been restricted in many places, so many products are phosphate-free already. Check the ingredient list.
Plant-based. Not a defined term for detergent. Read the ingredients.
Certifications. The U.S. EPA's Safer Choice label and the USDA Certified Biobased Product label are recognized programs, and they check different things. See our eco-friendly hand soap guide for how to read them. We do not say any particular product has either.
Packaging. A cardboard box or refill pouch may use less plastic than a tub. Check what the package is made of and what can be recycled where you live.

Comparing prices: price per load

Find the number of loads on the package. For powder, check the scoop size and the number of loads the box claims.
Divide the price by the number of loads.
Compare that number across powder, gel and pods.

Be careful with multipacks and bulk sizes. They are only a good deal if the price per load is lower, and only if you will use them up. Powder can clump if it gets damp, so a very large box is not always better.

Bulk and refill tips

Buy the size you will finish in a few months, and keep it in a dry place.
Check refill pouches and bulk boxes against the price per load of the regular size.
Try a small size first if you are switching, since results depend on your water and dishwasher.
If your dishes come out cloudy or gritty, check your dishwasher's manual and the product label before switching again. Rinse aid and dishwasher salt are separate products that may help in some homes.

Phosphate-free dishwasher detergent

Check the ingredient list, then compare the price per load.

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Plant-based dishwasher pods

Read what the maker claims about the film and the packaging.

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