This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.
Summary: Discover the benefits of switching to zero waste dish soap and learn about the best non-toxic options available.
Are you looking for the best zero waste dish soap options to help reduce plastic waste in your kitchen? Then you’re in the right place!
Washing dirty dishes. It's an unavoidable part of life that we typically don't give a second thought about. But here's the thing, that bottle of liquid dish soap sitting next to your sink comes with a significant cost to your health and the environment.
If you're looking to clean up your dishwashing routine, we've done the research for you. We've tested and compiled a list of the 15 best zero-waste dish soaps, carefully reviewing their ingredients to provide you with the best options made with the clean
Our Top Picks for Best Zero Waste Dish Soap Brands
GOOD: ATTITUDE Nature+ Dishwashing Liquid
BETTER: No Tox Life Dish Block
BEST: MightyNest Dish Soap Bar
Conventional liquid dish soap often contains a list of toxic chemicals like phosphates and surfactants. While these ingredients are effective in breaking down grease, they also wreak havoc on your health and on aquatic ecosystems when they find their way down the drain and into our waterways.
They promote excessive algae growth, which deprives fish and other marine life of oxygen.
Plus, there's the plastic bottle they come in. Every time we throw these plastic bottles in the trash they contribute to our ever-growing plastic pollution crisis.
We've searched high and low to find the best zero waste dish soaps that are made with natural, plant-based ingredients and packaged in sustainable, plastic-free containers.
We've meticulously analyzed the ingredient lists to ensure they're free from harsh chemicals, so you can wash your dishes with confidence, knowing that you're using a safe product.
But, before we dive into our top picks, let's explore some of the toxic chemicals that might be hiding in the bottle of dish soap sitting by your kitchen sink.
What Harmful Ingredients Are Found In Most Dish Soaps?
1,4-Dioxane
A suspected carcinogen, 1,4-Dioxane, can also cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. It's not intentionally added to products but can appear as a byproduct when manufacturing certain types of surfactants (cleaning agents).
To identify 1,4-Dioxane on an ingredient label in your dish soap, look for surfactants such as "sodium laureth sulfate," "PEG compounds," or other ingredients that involve ethoxylation like polysorbates, ceteareths, or oleth compounds.
Formaldehyde
Often used as a preservative to prevent bacteria and mold growth, formaldehyde is often added to extend a product's shelf life. However, it's a known carcinogen and it can also trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
Avoid ingredients like quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin or Imidazolidinyl Urea which are formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
Phthalates
Phthalates are often found in fragrances, including those used in dish soaps. They help stabilize the fragrance and make the scent last longer. However, phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormones. This interference can lead to reproductive and developmental problems.
Phthalates are often not listed explicitly on ingredient labels for dish soaps because they are typically used as part of fragrances, which are often labeled simply as "fragrance" or "parfum." Look for these generic terms, as they likely indicate the presence of phthalates used to stabilize and enhance the longevity of the scent.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These are surfactants that are commonly used in dish soaps because they create a good lather and effectively remove dirt and grease. However, both SLS and SLES can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. SLES may also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.
These ingredients are easy to spot on ingredient lists since they are listed as is.
Phosphates
Phosphates are used in some dish soaps to soften water and help break down food particles and stains, making the soap more effective. However, they come with significant drawbacks.
Phosphates contribute to water pollution, which can lead to environmental problems like harmful algal blooms. They can also cause digestive issues if accidentally ingested.
To identify phosphates in your dish soap, you should look for terms such as "phosphate," "sodium tripolyphosphate," or "STPP" on the ingredient label.
Artificial Dyes
Artificial dyes in liquid dish soaps can be problematic because they often contain synthetic chemicals that may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other health issues, while also contributing to environmental pollution when they enter water systems.
Manufacturers add these harsh chemicals to their dish soap formulations because they are effective at cutting through tough grease.
However, even though you wash the soap down the drain, it's important to consider the potential consequences. All dish soaps leave some chemical residue behind on your dishes, which can eventually make its way into your food and, consequently, into your body.
Over time, these chemicals can accumulate in your system as you ingest them little by little, potentially leading to serious health problems.
Our Picks for the Best Zero Waste Dish Soaps in 2024
So, what exactly sets zero waste dish soap apart from traditional liquid dish soaps?
For starters, zero waste dish soaps often come in minimal or no packaging, such as solid bars or refillable containers.
This simple switch significantly reduces the amount of plastic waste generated compared to conventional dish soaps that come in single-use plastic bottles.
But the differences don't stop there. Zero waste dish soaps are formulated with natural, biodegradable ingredients that are free from harmful synthetic chemicals, preservatives, and artificial fragrances commonly found in traditional liquid dish soaps.
This means that when you rinse your dishes, you're not exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.
Additionally, these chemicals won't be released into our water systems where they can harm aquatic life and contribute to environmental pollution.
GOOD
EWG Verified formula with plant-based and natural ingredients
Contains saponin, a natural cleansing and antibacterial agent
Available in a 2 liter eco-refill format, reducing plastic waste
With 97% naturally derived ingredients, Attitude's Nature+ Dishwashing Liquid offers a powerful and eco-friendly alternative to conventional dish soaps. This biodegradable formula is vegan and EWG Verified, so you know it meets the highest standards for transparency and health.
This dish soap is made from saponin, a plant-based surfactant with natural antibacterial properties. Combined with other plant-based ingredients, it effectively cuts through grease and grime while being gentle on your skin.
ATTITUDE packages their dishwashing liquid refills in a 2 Liter eco-refill format that is easy to carry and use at home. Plus it reduces plastic waste!
Ingredients: 5-15% anionic surfactants (sodium coco-sulfate), <5% non-ionic surfactants (lauryl glucoside, myristyl glucoside, caprylyl glucoside). Contains also: water, salt, citric acid, lauramine oxide, sodium benzoate, sodium gluconate, potassium sorbate, glycerin, tea leaf extract, sodium hydroxide, terpineol acetate*, terpineol*, tetrahydrolinalool*, triethyl citrate*, *fragrance (parfum).
Concentrated powder refills that reduce plastic waste
Plant-based, non-toxic formula that's tough on grease but gentle on hands
Easy to use, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals
As a woman-owned business based in the USA, Elcove is committed to providing high-quality, sustainable products that make eco-friendly living accessible to all.
These concentrated powder refills make it easy to create your own eco-friendly dish soap at home. No plastic waste and no harsh chemicals needed.
Each refill makes 12 ounces of foaming dish soap, compatible with Elcove's glass bottles or any 12oz foaming dispenser.
Ingredients: Sodium Coco Sulfate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Soap Nuts Extract, Vegetable Glycerin, Fragrance (without any Prop 65 ingredients), Aloe Vera Extract
A note about our “Good, Better, Best” categories
While we strive to recommend completely non-toxic dish soaps, we've also included some products that contain a few potentially concerning ingredients. This is to provide you with a wider range of options.
We've bolded these ingredients so you can easily identify them and do your own research to decide if they meet your standards for a non toxic product.
Customizable, powder-to-gel formula that reduces plastic waste
Vegan, biodegradable, and free from dyes and harsh chemicals
Fresh Honey Clementine scent with easy-to-use instructions
This unique Powder to Gel Dish Soap from Nature Bee's is an innovative, low-waste solution. The soap comes in a powdered form, which you can easily transform into a thick, sudsy gel by adding warm water.
We like that the customizable formula allows you to adjust the consistency based on your preferences.
The honey clementine scent is totally dreamy and captures the fresh, tangy aroma of orange peel with rich notes of sweet honey.
The powder comes in a recyclable packet, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.
Just pour the powdered contents into a dish soap container of your choice, add warm filtered water, and gently shake or stir for 30 seconds.
Allow the mixture to thicken and activate for 15-30 minutes, and you're ready to start cleaning.
Ingredients: Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cellulose CM, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, FragranceBETTER
Effectively tackles stubborn grease and food residues
Crafted by a family-owned business committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing
Comes in biodegradable paper containers, resulting in no plastic waste
No Tox Life stands out for its ability to tackle stubborn grease and food residues effectively. If you're looking for a reusable dish soap block that packs a punch, the No Tox Life Dish Block is your go-to.
When it comes to green, sustainable dishwashing, this eco-friendly dish soap is one of the best. Not your average ethical dish soap brand, this palm oil-free bar is currently the best-selling solid dishwashing alternative.
Their eco-friendly dish soap bars arrive in biodegradable paper containers. No plastic. No waste. Period.
Ingredients: Sodium ester salts, sodium salts, cocoyl, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl polyglucosides, washing soda, potassium cocoate, vegetable glycerin, soapbark*, aloe vera*, sodium citrate, sodium gluconate, sodium benzoate, water (solvent). *Denotes organic ingredient
Effectively tackles stubborn grease and food residues
Crafted by a family-owned business committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing
Comes in biodegradable paper containers, resulting in no plastic waste
A zero-waste solution that’s pretty too? Count us in!
We've always loved Public Goods dish soap because it cuts through grease and grime so easily. Now that they offer a beautiful borosilicate glass dispenser for refills, we love it even more!
You won't find any harmful chemicals, dyes, or synthetic fragrances in this formula. Instead, it's naturally powered by coconut extracts, sea salt, and citrus, making it greywater friendly and biodegradable.
The juicy mandarin orange and basil essential oils provide the most beautiful scent AND they also act as powerful bacteria-fighting agents.
This product is 100% BPA-free and refill-ready, making it easy to reduce single-use plastic in your home.
Ingredients: Purified water, sodium coco sulfate (from coconut), lauryl glucoside (from coconut), laureth-9 (from coconut), lauramine Oxide (from coconut), citric acid (from citrus fruit), potassium sorbate (a food grade preservative), sea salt, natural mandarin orange oil, natural basil oil.
Benefits Zero Waste Dish Soap
Health Benefits
By choosing a zero waste dish soap made with healthy, natural ingredients, you can avoid these harmful synthetic ingredients and the health issues that they cause.
You're also creating a safer environment for your loved ones, especially children and pets who may be more sensitive to harmful chemicals.
Environmental Benefits
Every time you buy a new bottle of traditional dish soap, you're contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution. By switching to zero waste dish soap, often packaged in minimal or no plastic, you're significantly reducing your plastic footprint.
By using zero-waste dish soap, you also prevent harmful chemicals from being washed down the drain and polluting our water systems. These chemicals can harm aquatic life and disrupt ecosystems.
Cost Savings
Zero waste dish soaps, particularly solid bars, are often highly concentrated, meaning a little goes a long way. This means fewer purchases over time, keeping more money in your pocket!
Many zero waste dish soap brands also offer refillable containers, allowing you to save money on packaging costs while still getting the same great product.
Effectively tackles stubborn grease and food residues
Crafted by a family-owned business committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing
Comes in biodegradable paper containers, resulting in no plastic waste
If you're looking for an all-natural way to refill your dish soap, Rustic Strength's 100% biodegradable formula is the perfect solution. It's made from renewable plant and earth mineral-derived ingredients.
You only need a small amount of this super concentrated dish soap to clean a sink full of plates, bowls, cups, glasses, crystal, and fine china.
Rustic Strength's commitment to sustainability extends to its ingredient list. This dish soap is hypoallergenic and free from toxins and irritants commonly found in conventional dish soaps.
It contains no dyes, perfumes, SLS, SLES, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, 1,4-dioxane, ethoxylated alcohol, optical brighteners, fillers, petroleum, palm oil, gluten, hormone disruptors, or carcinogens.
Ingredients: Charcoal filtered deionized water, sodium C14-C16 olefin sulfonate (coconut-derived, palm-free surfactant), cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine (coconut-derived, palm-free surfactant), decyl glucoside (plant-derived surfactant), vegetable glycerin, salt, caprylyl glucoside (plant-based surfactant), polysorbate 20, sodium benzoate & potassium sorbate.BEST
Concentrated, vegetable-based formula that cuts through grease
Palm oil-free, preservative-free, and dye-free
Gentle on hands, vegan, and free from synthetic fragrances
MightyNest's palm-oil free formula contains no preservatives or dyes, making it a simple yet powerful choice for going zero-waste in your kitchen. The plant-based ingredients make it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid dish soaps, helping eliminate single-use plastics and toxins in your home.
Not only is this soap bar highly effective, but it's also gentle on your hands. We really love this soap bar’s rich lather, which easily tackles even the dirtiest dishes, pots, and pans.
MightyNest uses only all-natural ingredients like coconut oil and sunflower seed oil, so it's gentle on even the most sensitive skin. It's also vegan, and free of dyes, preservatives, and synthetic fragrances.
Ingredients: Vegetable soap [sodium cocoate, sodium sunflowerate, glycerin, water, organic coconut oil, organic sunflower seed oil], organic lemon peel oil.
Premium, all-natural ingredients safe for dishes, fruits, vegetables, and baby products
Plastic-free and zero-waste, promoting a sustainable lifestyle
High detergency and excellent protein solubility for effective cleaning
MamaForest's premium all-natural dish soap bars are the perfect eco-friendly alternative to traditional dishwashing liquids. These soap bars are meticulously aged through a unique cold-press process, resulting in a product that effectively cleans dishes, fruits, and vegetables without leaving behind any residue.
Mama Forest makes their soap bars with only EWG green grade ingredients, such as coconut oil, USDA-certified argan oil, black sugar, and salt.
The absence of synthetic surfactants and other harmful chemicals makes these soap bars safe for use on baby products and gentle on sensitive skin. In fact, the argan oil in the formula helps protect your hands from dryness and irritation.
Despite being made with natural ingredients, MamaForest's dish soap bars are highly effective at cutting through grease and grime. Even a small amount of soap creates a foamy lather that easily cleans dishes.
Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Argan Kernel Oil, Olive Oil, Brown Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Kaolin Clay, Oatmeal, Tocopherol
Different Types of Zero Waste Dish Soap
Solid Bar Soaps
These concentrated bars of soap are the unsung heroes of the zero waste dish soap world. Made from natural oils and fats, they pack a powerful cleaning punch in a compact, plastic-free package.
Solid bars are typically packaged without any plastic, making them a true zero waste champion.
A little goes a long way with these concentrated bars, meaning they'll last you much longer than liquid options.
Liquid Soaps
For those who prefer a more traditional dishwashing experience, there are also some great zero waste liquid soap options. These soaps come in refillable glass or metal containers and are formulated with natural, eco-friendly ingredients.
Liquid soaps are easy to use and measure, making them a convenient choice for daily dishwashing. And many zero waste liquid soaps are infused with essential oils, offering a range of natural, refreshing scents to choose from.
Powdered Soaps
Powdered dish soaps are the underdog of the zero waste world. These dry formulations can be mixed with water to create a powerful liquid soap that tackles even the toughest dishes.
Powdered soaps are easier to store and transport than their liquid counterparts, reducing their carbon footprint during shipping. With powdered soaps, you can adjust the concentration based on your specific cleaning needs.
Because they're not pre-mixed with water, powdered soaps are less prone to spoilage, giving them a longer shelf life than liquid options.
9. Meliora Dish Soap
Handcrafted by a women- and family-owned business in Chicago
Made with gentle, organic ingredients like olive and coconut oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin
EWG-rated with an 'A,' ensuring its non-toxic and skin-friendly nature
Meliora is not just a brand; it's a philosophy. A small, women- and family-owned business, every product is handcrafted in Chicago.
Their products are not only Made Safe-certified but are also backed by Leaping Bunny, the vanguard against animal testing. Further solidifying their commitment to ethical practices, they're a certified B Corp, ensuring fair wages and low-impact products.
We like this dish soap for its gentle, organic ingredients like olive and coconut oils, which are kinder to sensitive skin. Plus, it's also EWG-rated with a solid 'A,' ensuring that it's non-toxic and skin-friendly.
Ingredients: Sodium cocoate, sodium sunflowerate, glycerin, water, organic coconut oil, organic sunflower seed oil, organic lemon peel oil
100% plant-based, free from palm oils, sulfates, parabens, and chemical residues
Grease-cutting formula that's gentle on hands
Value pack of three 16 oz bars designed to last, reducing waste
ZeroWastely's Biodegradable Dish Soap Bar is a 100% plant-based soap bar. Its powerful grease-cutting formula leaves your dishes sparkling clean while being gentle on your hands.
Free from palm oils, sulfates, parabens, and chemical residues, this soap is crafted with natural ingredients like coconut oil, orange peels, and lemon essential oil.
This soap bar comes in plastic-free, biodegradable packaging, making it a truly zero-waste choice for your kitchen.
A single swipe of your brush or sponge creates an instant, rich lather that effectively dissolves even the most stubborn stains.
Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Orange Peels, Water, Lye, Castor Oil, Citric Acid, Lemon Essential Oil
- 100% natural, plastic-free, and palm oil-free
- Includes a natural loofah for scrubbing or holding the soap
- Great for sensitive skin
RE: REKURATOR's Dish Washing Soap Bar is 100% natural and 100% plastic-free.
One of the unique features of this soap bar is the included loofah holder. The natural loofah can be used as a scrubber or a soap holder, and once it has served its purpose, it can be composted or tossed in your garden, where it will break down into the soil.
We love that this company's commitment to zero waste extends to their packaging, which is plastic-free and made from recycled paper.
Ingredients: Coconut oil, canola oil, olive oil, caster oil, lemon extract, sodium hydroxide, purified water, sugar
Handmade with 100% organic and vegan-friendly ingredients
Multi-purpose use for dishes, cleaning, stain removal, and hand washing
Recyclable and biodegradable packaging for a zero-waste product
You know we love a good basic here at Keep It Simple and we’d be remiss if we didn’t include this awesome multi-purpose, vegan dish soap from Farmhouse Basic.
Handmade with 100% organic and vegan-friendly ingredients, this dish soap is free from harsh chemicals, preservatives, artificial fragrances, and dyes.
This dish soap is incredibly versatile. It's not just for dishes (even delicate crystal!); you can also use it for general cleaning around the house, stain removal, and hand washing. It's an eco-friendly, cost-effective, all-in-one solution!
The dish soap comes in recyclable and biodegradable packaging, making it a true zero-waste product.
Ingredients: 100% organic and vegan-friendly saponified lye coconut oil, filtered water and patchouli and cedarwood essential oilsHow To Use A Dish Soap Block
- Wet Your Brush: Start by thoroughly wetting your chosen cleaning tool (sponge, brush, cloth, or loofah). Warm water helps create a better lather. (Be sure to scrape dishes before you begin.)
- Create Lather: Rub the wet tool directly on the dish soap bar in a circular motion until you create a good amount of suds. If you're having trouble, add more water.
- Wash Dishes: Use the soapy sponge or brush to wash items, dishes cutlery, and cookware etc. as you would with liquid dish soap. For excess grease and stubborn messes, let them soak in hot water with some grated soap beforehand.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all items with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- For Tough Jobs: For baked-on food or greasy pans, you can create a concentrated paste by rubbing the wet bar directly on the surface and scrubbing with a brush or sponge.
Uses organic and fair trade ingredients
Concentrated, versatile formula for various cleaning tasks
Biodegradable and vegan, posing no threat to the environment
Dr. Bronner’s products have a dedicated following and for good reason! All of Dr. Bronner’s products are made using only organic and fair trade ingredients.
This concentrated formula is free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, and foaming agents, making it a responsible choice for your home and the environment. It’s actually three times more concentrated than most conventional alternatives, meaning a little goes a long way!
Honestly, you can use liquid castile soap for almost any cleaning application around your home, including laundry, mopping, and even washing your pets. Made from plant-based extracts and eco-friendly surfactants, it offers a safe and non-toxic way to clean your produce, giving you peace of mind with every bite.
The formula is readily biodegradable and uses organic, vegan ingredients, so it's safe for the environment. Plus, refills now come in recyclable cardboard containers, making it even more eco-friendly!
Ingredients: Water, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Palm Kernel Oil, Potassium Hydroxide,† Organic Olive Oil, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Citric Acid, Tocopherol
Eco-friendly, vegan, and made with organic ingredients
Plastic-free packaging, reducing waste in your kitchen
Available in Bergamot + Lime scent or unscented
Made with organic ingredients? Check! Vegan-friendly? Check! Eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging? Check!
These Solid Dish Soap Bars from Zero Waste MVMT are handmade with love in Winnipeg, Canada. Each bar is made with natural, premium essential oils and do not contain any artificial fragrances.
Zero Waste MVMT's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself. The company is dedicated to creating products that are palm oil-free, certified organic, fair trade, cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and dye-free.
For best results, simply use your dish brush or wet sponge to scrub the bar and create a foamy lather that will get your dishes clean in no time flat.
Ingredients: Saponified Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Ricinus communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Citrus aurantium bergamia (Bergamot) + Citrus aurantifolia (Lime) Essential Oil
All-natural, organic, vegan, and free from harmful chemicals
Powerful cleaning performance with minimal scrubbing required
USDA-approved organic and EVE VEGAN certified
The RIGHT Dish Washing Bar from Donggubat is an all-natural and eco-friendly alternative to conventional dish soaps. Made with 100% plant-based ingredients, this solid dish soap is organic, vegan, and free from harmful chemicals.
The dish soap bar is USDA-approved organic and EVE VEGAN certified, ensuring that it meets the highest standards for health and safety. It has been rigorously lab-tested and is certified free of heavy metals.
The baking soda and balanced pH formula make it a powerful cleaner that cuts through grease with minimal scrubbing. And as an added bonus, unlike many liquid soaps, this solid dish soap won't leave any residue on your dishes or silverware.
Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Lauric Acid, Sodium Bicarbonate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Meal, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder, Sea Salt, SucroseHow to Make Your Own DIY Liquid Dish Soap
Ingredients
To make your own homemade dish soap, you will need the following ingredients:
1/2 cup liquid castile soap
1/2 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar
1 tablespoon washing soda (sub baking soda if needed)
Essential oils (optional, for fragrance)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup liquid castile soap, 1/2 cup distilled water, 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar, and 1 tablespoon washing soda (you can sub baking soda if needed). Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for fragrance. Organic lemon essential oil and lavender are popular choices for their pleasant scents and potential antibacterial properties.
Mix essential oils in soap mixture until well combined.
Transfer mixture to soap dispenser or proper container for storage and use.
Safety Tips
Always use clean utensils and containers to prevent contamination.
If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing gloves when handling the soap mixture.
Keep the dish soap out of reach of children and pets when storing.
What should I look for when shopping for zero waste dish soap?
Clean Ingredients
The most important step in shopping for zero-waste dish soap is scrutinizing the ingredient list. You're looking for plant-based, non-toxic ingredients that get the job done without harming the environment or your health.
The easier the ingredient list is to read the better. If you can't pronounce the ingredients or don't know what they are, it's probably best to steer clear.
Packaging Matters
You can't talk about zero-waste without discussing packaging. Look for plastic-free, biodegradable, compostable packaging.
While not completely zero-waste refill options are also a good choice to help cut down on single use plastics.
Test The Waters
Many zero-waste dish soap brands offer trial packs or smaller sizes. This is a fantastic way to test the waters without committing to a full-size product.
You'd be surprised how different soaps perform on various grease levels or cookware materials. You’ll want a dish soap that you know can get the job done.
Read The Fine Print
Lastly, make sure you double-check the brand's eco-credentials. A quick look for reliable certifications from trustworthy organizations can save you from falling for 'green-washing.'
Labels like USDA Organic, BioPreferred, or MADE SAFE provide a quick assurance that you're investing in a genuinely eco-friendly, non toxic cleaning product.
Liquid Dish Soap vs. Dish Soap Bars: What to Choose?
Liquid Soap: The Familiar Choice
Pros: Dish soap in a bottle is what most of us are accustomed to. It's convenient, easy to dispense, and often generates more suds, which people associate with cleaning power. Liquid soaps also mix well with water, offering a uniform cleaning solution.
Cons: The downside is that liquid soaps often come in plastic containers, even if they're eco-friendly formulas. Sure, some brands offer refills, but the packaging is still a concern. They are also more prone to overuse, leading to quicker depletion and more frequent repurchasing.
Environmental Footprint: Liquids are heavy and take up more volume, meaning their transport leads to higher carbon emissions. Even if you buy in bulk or use refill stations, the original product likely traveled a greater distance, leaving a bigger carbon footprint.
Dish Soap Bar: The Better Zero Waste Alternative
Pros: Solid dish soaps are incredibly long-lasting, offering excellent value for money. A dish soap bar also takes up less space, both in your shopping bag and under your sink. Most importantly, they are usually sold with minimal or no packaging.
Cons: The learning curve. It may take some time to figure out the right amount of soap to use. Some people also find it less convenient to rub a dish brush or sponge on a soap bar compared to simply squirting liquid dish soaps.
Environmental Footprint: Low waste dish soaps win here. They are lighter and smaller, reducing transport emissions. Plus, they are plastic free and come in minimal packaging—often just a small cardboard box or a paper wrap, both of which are typically compostable or recyclable.
But how do you choose between the two? Consider your dishwashing habits and setup. If you've got a sponge or dish brush that can easily rub on a solid soap bar, that might be the more eco-friendly choice.
If you have a soap-dispensing brush or you're not ready to give up the sudsy liquid experience, opt for a liquid option but be mindful of the packaging and try to buy in bulk or refill where possible.
At the end of the day, it's about balancing convenience, effectiveness, and environmental impact.
Whichever you choose, make sure to read labels carefully for ingredients and eco-certifications to ensure you're making the most responsible choice possible.
Zero waste dish soap is a simple change with significant benefits for the environment, your wallet, and your health. It reduces plastic waste, protects our waterways, and avoids harmful chemicals. Win-win-win!
In this post, we've explored the many advantages of switching to zero waste dish soap and highlighted the top brands available.
As you strive for a more sustainable lifestyle, remember that even small choices like your dish soap can make a big difference.
By choosing zero waste options, you're taking a step towards a healthier planet and a healthier you!
Like this post? Share on Pinterest!
Leave a Reply