How to Make Your Own Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent

With environmental friendliness becoming increasingly important in our homes, making environmentally conscious decisions is paramount. One simple yet significant change you can make is switching to homemade dishwasher detergent. Not only does this eco-friendly alternative help reduce your carbon footprint, but it also offers a healthier option for your household by avoiding harmful chemicals. 

We’ll explore everything you need to make the best eco-friendly dishwasher detergent for your home. If DIYs aren’t your thing, we’ll share our top picks for brands with the best solutions. Prepare to embrace a cleaner way to do your dishes and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Why make your own eco-friendly dishwasher detergent? 

Making your own dishwashing solution comes with multiple benefits. Most dishwasher detergents contain toxins that are harmful to the environment and your health. Opting to make your own detergents can give you more control over what goes into cleaning your dishes. 

In the same way, many commercial detergents contain bleach, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances, which can contribute to water pollution. By creating your own solution, you can choose to add natural and eco-friendly ingredients that are safer. 

Are dishwasher pods eco-friendly? 

Although the plastic surrounding dishwasher pods dissolves during cycles, dishwasher pods aren’t eco-friendly. The microplastics that come from these pods after the initial plastic that’s dissolved then join the water cycle. According to Environmental Research and Public Health, 75% of these microplastics enter the environment after a load. This creates a significant amount of plastic pollution. 

Moreover, PVA (polyvinyl alcohol), the plastic used in dishwasher pods contributes to 8,000 tons of plastic pollution annually. These plastics can wind up in our water supply, air, and soil.  

How to make eco-friendly dishwasher detergent 

Looking to take your dishwashing game to the next level? Here’s how you can make your own eco-friendly dishwasher detergent that’s powdered: 

Ingredients: 

• 17 oz of Water 

• 1 cup washing soda 

• 1 cup citric acid (lemon juice works just fine) 

• 1/2 cup kosher salt 

Instructions: 

1. Gather all the ingredients and utensils you’ll need, including a mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a spoon or whisk for stirring. 
2. If you choose to use fresh lemon or orange for your detergent, start by cutting and squeezing the juice from your fruit in a bowl. Be sure to strain seeds and pulp from your bowl before incorporating it into your other ingredients.  
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine white vinegar, water, citric acid, washing soda, and kosher salt. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. 
4. Transfer the mixture into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a secure lid. 

How many ounces of dishwasher detergent should I use per load? 

The amount of dishwasher detergent you should use per load will vary. According to Whirlpool, heavy soil, and hard water stains generally require more detergent. The dishwashing brand suggests never to use less than one tablespoon per load.  

Does dishwasher detergent expire? 

According to Cascade, although dishwasher detergent does not have a technical expiration date, it loses effectiveness over time. If you’re storing your homemade detergent in a container that isn’t properly sealed, your detergent won’t work over time. Older detergent that’s exposed to air will clump and not dissolve properly. 

How to use powdered dishwasher detergent 

Using powdered dishwasher detergent is straightforward. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of powdered dishwasher detergent per load. The exact amount can vary depending on the size of your dishwasher and the hardness of your water.  

1. Load your dishwasher according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. 
2. Open the detergent compartment of your dishwasher pour the measured detergent into the compartment and close it up.  
3. Choose the appropriate wash cycle for the load you’re washing. For most loads, a normal cycle is sufficient. 
4. Close the dishwasher door and start the selected wash cycle.  

Ingredients to avoid 

If you don’t want to make your dishwasher detergent, SheetYeah.com recommends avoiding certain ingredients when choosing a detergent: 

1. Fragrances 
2. Phosphates 
3. Chlorine bleach  
4. Optical brighteners  
5. Nonylphenol ethoxylates  
6. Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate (SLS/SLES)  
7. Formaldehyde  

Our picks for the best eco-friendly dishwasher detergent 

If you’re looking to make the switch to an eco-friendly dishwasher detergent, here are our picks for the best detergents for your home: 

Cascade Free & Clear: This brand of detergent has no heavy perfumes, free of chlorine bleach and free of phosphates, and requires no pre-wash. 

Blueland: Blueland’s dishwasher tablets are 100% plastic-free and easy to use. These powerful tablets are made with plants and minerals, free from preservatives, dyes, fragrances, and phosphates.  

ECOS Liquid Dishwasher Detergent: ECOS uses plant-derived cleaning agents, and it is a readily biodegradable formula.  

Dropps Dishwasher Detergent Pods: Completed with recycled cardboard packaging, Droops cleaning solution is made from mineral-based ingredients. 

Our picks for non-toxic dishwasher detergent 

Molly’s Suds: Their natural plant-based formula cuts through stuck-on food stains and is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. 

Branch Basics dishwasher tablets: These powerful tabs are 100% biodegradable and PVA-free and designed to fit all dishwashers. Made with plant-based minerals and free of harmful preservatives, this solution packs a punch.  

Seventh Generation Ultra Power Plus Dishwasher Detergent Gel: This detergent contains 0% synthetic fragrances, dyes, chlorine bleach, or phosphates.  

Nellie’s Dish Detergent: Nellie’s is made with no trace of toxic chemicals and even their packaging is recyclable and compostable! 

Switching to eco-friendly dishwasher detergent is a simple yet impactful change that can make a significant difference for both your household and the environment. By choosing to make your own detergent or opting for eco-conscious brands, you not only reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals but also contribute to the fight against plastic pollution.