Switching to eco-friendly dish soap is a simple change that can have a meaningful impact. From reducing plastic waste to avoiding harsh synthetic chemicals, these soaps are better option for your family and the environment.
But how do you know which options work as well as traditional dish soap? In this guide, we’ll explore why eco-friendly dish soap matters, highlight the best eco friendly dish soap options, and help you choose one that fits your lifestyle.
Why Choose Eco Friendly Dish Soap?
Traditional dish soaps might seem harmless, but they come with hidden costs to the environment and your well-being. Here’s why more families are choosing to go green:
Plastic Pollution and Waste
Most dishwashing liquids come in single-use plastic bottles. Sadly, about 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans every year. Once there, plastics break down into microplastics, which threaten marine life and can even end up in our food.
Choosing eco-friendly options often means using refillable bottles or zero-waste alternatives, which help reduce plastic pollution at home.
(You can learn more about plastic pollution in this post!)
Safer for Your Family’s Health
Although dish soaps have to meet certain safety standards in the US, they often contain synthetic chemicals like phosphates, parabens, and artificial fragrances that have been found to be harmful for the planet and human health.
Studies show that phosphates, when released into water systems, can cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life. Parabens, commonly used as preservatives, have been detected in marine environments and linked to potential hormone disruption in wildlife.
Additionally, artificial fragrances and sulfates can irritate sensitive skin, especially in children or individuals prone to allergies. Residues left on dishes may linger longer than expected, raising concerns for households with kids and pets.
Switching to eco friendly dish soap means choosing non-toxic, plant-based alternatives, making them gentler on your family’s health while reducing the impact on our waterways.
What To Look For In The Best Eco Friendly Dish Soap
Not all eco-friendly soaps are created equal. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Ingredients: Look for biodegradable, plant-based formulas free of synthetic fragrances and dyes.
- Packaging: Choose plastic-free or refillable options to reduce waste.
- Performance: A good eco-friendly soap should still cut through grease and grime with ease.
- Style: From liquid dish soap to solid dish soap bars, choose what works best for your kitchen routine.
To make it easy for you, we’ve put together our top 5!
Our Top Picks: 5 Eco-Friendly Dish Soaps You’ll Love
Here are some of the best eco-friendly dish soaps available on EarthHero, complete with features and what they’re best for.
1. Refillable Dish Soap
- Vendor: Fillaree LLC
- Type: Liquid dish soap with a refill system
- Best For: Families looking for a zero-waste, refillable option
- Packaging: Zero-waste, refillable design
- Highlights: Non-toxic, plant-based soap with a simple refill process to cut down on single-use plastics. Effective for everyday dishes and light grime.
2. Zero Waste Dish Washing Block
- Vendor: No Tox Life
- Type: Solid dish soap bar
- Best For: Heavy grease and long-lasting performance
- Packaging: Completely plastic-free
- Highlights: Compact, long-lasting, and incredibly effective at cutting through grease. Perfect for reducing kitchen clutter and waste.
3. Liquid Dish Soap
- Vendor: The Home Farm
- Type: Liquid dish soap
- Best For: Everyday dishwashing and tackling light grease
- Packaging: Recyclable glass bottle with refill options
- Highlights: Plant-based, biodegradable formula with a refreshing citrus scent. Gentle on hands, tough on grease.
4. Dishwasher Detergent Pods
- Vendor: Dropps
- Type: Dishwasher detergent pods
- Best For: Automatic dishwashers and mess-free cleaning
- Packaging: Compostable cardboard
- Highlights: Pre-measured pods made with eco-friendly ingredients. They’re safe for septic systems and free of artificial dyes and fragrances. Ideal for busy families using dishwashers daily.
5. Organic Castile Dish Soap
- Vendor: Meliora
- Type: Solid dish soap bar
- Best For: Sensitive skin and gentle cleaning
- Packaging: Plastic-free and recyclable
- Highlights: Made with organic ingredients and free of synthetic fragrances, this soap is perfect for households prioritizing clean, non-toxic ingredients. It’s especially gentle on hands.
Pair Your Dish Soap with Sustainable Tools
To complete your zero-waste dishwashing setup, consider these eco-friendly tools:
Reusable brushes and compostable sponges are great companions to your eco-friendly dish soap, helping you cut down on even more waste.
A Small Step That Matters
Switching to eco-friendly dish soap might seem small, but it’s a step toward creating a healthier home and planet. By choosing products with safe, natural ingredients and plastic-free packaging, you’re reducing waste and protecting what matters most.
Explore EarthHero’s full collection of dish soaps and kitchen essentials to get started today - because cleaner dishes shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense.
