Non-Toxic Dish Washing Detergent

Dishwasher Detergents

Many dishwasher detergents contain dry chlorine which is activated when dissolved in water. Chlorine fumes in the steam that leaks from dishwashers may cause eye irritation and difficulty breathing. Dishwasher detergents may also contain quarternium 15, an eye and skin irritant and an allergen which can release carcinogenic formaldehyde. Dyes and artificial fragrances are common ingredients.

Less-toxic Alternatives


Down East - Dishwashing Powder
Nature Clean - Natural Dishwasher Powder
Seventh Generation
Simply Unscented
Shaklee Basic D


Home-made Alternatives
Mix equal parts of borax and baking soda and store in a tightly sealed container. Use 2 tablespoons per load. If you have hard water, double the amount of baking soda in your mixture. For either mixture, use vinegar in the rinse cycle.

Sodium hexametaphosphate can be used instead of dishwasher detergent. The amount required will vary depending on hardness of water.
Less Toxic Guide

Click Here to see our Natural Soap Products