Battle of the Green: Comparing the 7 Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soaps

Introducing the Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soaps of 2023: Our Comprehensive Review for a Greener Home.

As a devoted environmental advocate and sustainable cleaning enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for products that align with my passion for eco-friendly living.

In this review, I’m here to guide you in making a conscious choice when it comes to selecting zero-waste dish soap alternatives.

We’ve carefully assessed the best eco-friendly dish soaps available in the market, taking into account consumer experiences, cleaning performance, and environmental impact.

Our rigorous research ensures that you can trust the results we present.

Our top pick, Mrs Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap, stands out as the best overall eco-friendly dish soap you can try right now.

However, we understand that every household has unique requirements, so we’ve also included other exceptional eco-friendly dish soaps in catering to your specific needs.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our review and start making a positive impact on our planet!

Best Overall

Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap

– Plant-derived Ingredients

– Great Grease-cutter

– Cruelty-free Formulas

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Best Budget Option

Puracy Dish Soap

– Plant-powered Cleansers

– Good For Sensitive Skin

– Budget-friendly

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Best Green Option

Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set

– Plant-based Ingredients

– Refillable container

– Clean Dishes Very Well

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Our Top Recommendation for Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soap You Need To Try

1. Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap
2. Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap
3. Puracy Dish Soap
4. Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set
5. Cleancult Dish Soap
6. ATTITUDE Dish Detergent
7. Meliora Dish Soap for Hand Washing

7 Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soap for Sustainable Living

All eco-friendly dish soaps included on this list were reviewed and researched thoroughly, taking into account their customer reviews, value for money, ingredients and overall effectiveness.

Here are our top 7 picks for eco-friendly dish soap for you to consider :

1. Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap

• First 5 ingredients: Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Lauramine Oxide, Fragrance
• Key feature: Cuts Grease, Plant-derived Ingredients, Biodegradable
• Type of Product: Liquid
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Very gentle on the hands; therefore, no gloves are needed while washing the dishes

Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap is a game-changer when it comes to washing dishes.

It effortlessly cuts through grease, leaving your dishes clean and bright.

You’ll enjoy the biodegradable formula with plant-derived cleaning agents that make grease disappear while being kind to the environment.

The soap is gentle on your hands, so you won’t need gloves during dishwashing. Its pleasant smell turns the chore into an enjoyable task without the overpowering odours found in other dish soaps.

This great grease-cutter also comes in an easy-to-refill dispenser that rinses off smoothly.

Please note that the product’s lifespan might be short for some users who finish a three-pack within a month of using it every day. It depends on how many dishes you have to wash.

Additionally, a minority of individuals may find the fragrance overpowering.

But overall, Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap will make your dishwashing experience pleasant and efficient.

2. Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap

• First 5 ingredients: Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (plant-derived cleaning agent), Glycerin (plant-derived foam stabilizer), Magnesium chloride (mineral-based viscosity modifier), Citric acid (plant-derived pH adjuster)
• Key features: No strong scent, Effectively clean dishes, Good for sensitive skin
• Type of Product: Liquid
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Individuals with skin that is easily irritated or prone to allergies 

If you are looking for a dish soap that not only cleans your dishes effectively but also takes care of the environment, then you should try Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap.

The product features a plant-based formula that is perfect for fighting tough, dried-on food and grease and is also biodegradable.

It is free of any artificial fragrances or dyes and is excellent for those with sensitive skin. Plus, the formula is 100% biodegradable and comes in a 100% recycled bottle.

If you’re concerned about the environment, you’ll be pleased to know that Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap is an EPA Safer Choice Certified product and has also been approved as a USDA Certified Bio-based product.

Although it may not create the most suds, it gets the job done – leaving your dishes clean and free of any residue.

The liquid soap also works really well in the dishwasher – just dilute the liquid to a ratio of 1 to 10 with water to make dispensing easier.

The only drawbacks to this product are the weak suds and unreliable packaging/shipping.

But in our opinion, it’s worth putting up with these minor issues to protect your family, the environment, and your skin from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.

All in all, Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap is a product you can’t go wrong with.

3. Puracy Dish Soap

• First 5 ingredients: Purified Water, Lauryl/Myristyl Glucoside, Sodium Citrate, Himalayan Pink Sea Salt, Aloe Barbadensis
• Key feature: Have Refill Pack, Plant-powered Ingredients, Good For Sensitive Skin
• Type of Product: Liquid
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Have a lovely smell, and the scent is not overpowering

The balanced blend of plant-powered cleansers and moisturizers in Puracy Dish Soap makes it ideal for cleaning dishes and keeping your hands healthy.

This means you’ll have clean dishes without sacrificing the health of your skin.

The superior cleaning power effectively cuts through grease, softens your skin, and leaves spot-free surfaces, even with hard water (45 0+ sinks full of dishes per 3-pack!).

You’ll love the pleasant smell of this dish soap, which lathers well and does a fantastic job on your dishes without being overpowering.

It’s gentle on your hands, preventing dryness, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin or sensitivity to strong smells.

However, be aware that some users have reported improper packaging and the soap not sudsing up very well.

Despite these cons, Puracy Dish Soap is definitely worth a try for its eco-friendly ingredients and great performance.

4. Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set

• First 5 ingredients: Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Citrate, Calcium Silicate, Lauryl Glucoside
• Key feature: Plant-based Ingredients, Easy To Use, Clean Dishes Very Well
• Type of Product: Powder
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Lasts a long time and reduces the need to refill

Experience the convenience of the Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set and make washing dishes a breeze.

The powerful powder easily tackles food stains and leftovers simply by pouring it onto a sponge or dish, adding water, and squeezing to create a thick foam.

You’ll appreciate its plant-based and planet-friendly ingredients that are effective on various dishware, glassware, silver, and porcelain.

The dish soap is not only easy to use and store, but it also excels at washing super greasy stuff. Your hands will feel soft after using it, and it cleans very well.

Plus, it lasts a long time, reducing the need for refills. This dish soap very saves you money in the long run.

Some users might have difficulty getting the soap to foam adequately and may need some time to learn how to use this product effectively.

Overall, give Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set a try and enjoy its eco-friendly benefits while keeping your dishes sparkling clean.

5. Cleancult Dish Soap

• First 5 ingredients: Sweet Honeysuckle Essential Oil Blend, Saponified Coconut Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Vitamin E
• Key feature: Eco-friendly packaging, Refreshing scent, Easy to refill
• Type of Product: Liquid
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: A person who desires packaging that is not made of plastic

Looking for a dish soap that does more than just clean your dishes? Try Cleancult Dish Soap.

Cleancult promises to not only leave your dishes sparkling clean but also your hands softened, your home plastic-free, and the planet a little happier.

Made from natural ingredients like aloe and essential oils, their clear liquid formula is gentle on your skin and free from harmful chemicals.

This product is suitable for both dish sets and dishwashers and only requires a quarter teaspoon for the latter.

A unique feature of Cleancult Dish Soap is the eco-friendly, paper-based packaging that is 100% recyclable. Refills are simple, and the packaging is made with 90% less plastic.

While the product has a good scent and doesn’t leave a soapy taste on the dishes, it struggles with greasy dishes.

It may take several scrubs to remove greasy residue, and some customers report having to wash the dishes twice. Additionally, the packaging may be inconvenient and hard to open.

In conclusion, Cleancult Dish Soap provides a good option for those who are environmentally conscious and concerned with their impact on the planet.

It is good for sensitive hands and has a pleasing scent.

However, if you are dealing with particularly greasy dishes, you may want to consider an alternative option.

The eco-friendly packaging is a bonus, as it is made from combustible materials and can be easily recycled.

6. ATTITUDE Dish Detergent

• First 5 ingredients: Plant and mineral-based ingredients which comply with EWG’s ingredients
• Key feature: Hypoallergenic, EWG Verified, Have Pleasant Scent
• Type of Product: Liquid
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: It smells really nice and cleans the dishes very well

ATTITUDE Dish Detergent is a non-toxic formula made with plant and mineral-based ingredients, making it compliant with EWG’s evaluations for healthy cleaning.

This means it’s safer for you and your family. It’s highly effective, thanks to its green tea extract, which cuts through grease on stubborn pots and pans while being gentle on your hands.

As a hypoallergenic dishwashing liquid, it’s dermatologist-tested and perfect for those with allergies or sensitive skin.

You’ll love how your hands don’t feel dry after using this soap, and the pleasant smell adds to the experience. The large bottle offers great value for the price.

Some users have reported that the product may not produce enough suds and may not be very effective at removing grease.

Despite these minor drawbacks, ATTITUDE Dish Detergent is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a safe, effective, and gentle dish soap for your home.

7. Meliora Dish Soap for Hand Washing

• First 5 ingredients: Sodium Cocoate, Sodium Sunflowerate, Glycerin, Water, Organic Citrus
• Key feature: 100% Biodegradable, Lather Up Very Well, Plant-based Ingredients
• Type of Product: Bar
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: It’s a great alternative to replace plastic bottle dish soap

If you want to find an excellent plastic-free alternative to traditional dish soaps, you need to try Meliora Dish Soap for Hand Washing.

Instead of a bulky, ugly plastic bottle, this 7-ounce soap puck comes in a paperboard box, making it a more sustainable cleaning option.

To use, simply wet your sponge or brush and rub it on the soap to wash your dishes, or hold the soap under running water to soak pots and pans.

This planet-friendly dish soap is 100% biodegradable, septic-safe, and suitable for use around kids and pets.

Plus, it’s cruelty-free, as certified by Leaping Bunny. You’ll enjoy how quickly it suds up and lather up, effectively removing food from your dishes without a strong scent.

However, some users have reported that it leaves waxy/greasy smears and spots on dishes and sinks and doesn’t cut grease very well.

Overall, Meliora Dish Soap is a great eco-friendly choice worth considering for your dishwashing needs.

How to Find and Buy the Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soap for a Greener Kitchen

Making the switch to eco-friendly dish soap is a small but significant step towards a greener kitchen.

The best eco-friendly dish soaps are not only effective at cleaning your dishes but also gentle on the environment.

Here’s a guide to help you find and buy the best eco-friendly dish soap for your kitchen.

1. Look for plant-based ingredients

Eco-friendly dish soaps use plant-based ingredients rather than petroleum-based chemicals. This makes them biodegradable and safer for the environment.

Look for soaps that contain ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, and other plant-derived surfactants.

2. Avoid harsh chemicals

Many conventional dish soaps contain harsh chemicals like phosphates, synthetic fragrances, and dyes.

These chemicals can harm aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. Opt for eco-friendly dish soaps that are free from these harmful substances.

3. Choose fragrance-free or naturally scented options

Synthetic fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergies. Instead, look for dish soaps that are either fragrance-free or use natural essential oils for scent.

4. Check for certifications

Certifications from organizations like Green Seal, EcoLogo, or USDA BioPreferred can help you identify eco-friendly dish soaps. 

These certifications ensure that the product meets strict environmental standards and is made with sustainable practices.

5. Consider the packaging

Eco-friendly dish soaps often come in recyclable or reusable packaging. Some brands even offer refillable options, which can help reduce plastic waste.

Look for dish soaps packaged in materials like recycled plastic, glass, or biodegradable materials.

6. Read reviews and recommendations

Customer reviews and recommendations from trusted sources can help you find the best eco-friendly dish soap for your needs.

Read reviews to learn about the effectiveness, scent, and overall satisfaction of other users.

7. Compare prices

Eco-friendly dish soaps can sometimes be more expensive than conventional options, but this isn’t always the case.

Compare prices of different brands to find a product that fits within your budget.

8. Shop at eco-conscious retailers

Support businesses that prioritize sustainability by shopping at eco-conscious retailers. These stores often carry a variety of eco-friendly products, including dish soaps.

9. Try making your own

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider creating your own eco-friendly dish soap using simple ingredients like castile soap, water, and essential oils.

This can be a cost-effective and customizable way to reduce your environmental impact.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding and buying the best eco-friendly dish soap for a greener kitchen.

Not only will you be reducing your impact on the environment, but you’ll also be supporting sustainable practices and healthier living.

The 4 Ingredients That Work in Organic Dish Soap

Organic dish soap is a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers looking for effective and environmentally-friendly cleaning products.

These soaps are free from synthetic chemicals, dyes, and fragrances and are made with natural ingredients that are safe for both humans and the planet.

Here are four key ingredients commonly found in organic dish soap that work together to tackle grease, grime, and food particles effectively:

1. Saponified plant-based oils 

Saponification is the process of turning plant-based oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil, into soap. 

When these oils are combined with an alkaline solution (like lye), they undergo a chemical reaction that produces soap and glycerin.

Saponified plant-based oils are excellent at cutting through grease and removing tough stains, making them a powerful cleaning agent in organic dish soap.

2. Natural surfactants

Surfactants are substances that reduce surface tension between liquids, allowing them to mix more easily. In dish soap, surfactants help lift dirt and grease from dishes, making it easier to rinse them away.

Organic dish soaps use natural surfactants like decyl glucoside, coco-glucoside, and lauryl glucoside, which are derived from plant-based materials like corn, coconut, and palm oil.

These natural surfactants are biodegradable and gentle on the skin, making them a great alternative to synthetic surfactants found in conventional dish soaps.

3. Essential oils

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that provide natural fragrance and additional cleaning properties.

Many organic dish soaps use essential oils like lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree to add a pleasant scent while also offering antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial benefits.

These oils help to break down grease and grime, making it easier to clean your dishes without the need for harsh chemicals.

4. Natural thickeners and stabilizers

Organic dish soaps often include natural thickeners like xanthan gum or guar gum to create a more viscous texture that’s easy to use and clings to dishes for effective cleaning.

Stabilizers, such as citric acid or sodium citrate, help maintain the pH balance of the soap and prevent the separation of ingredients.

These natural additives ensure that the dish soap remains effective and easy to use over time.

Why make the switch to zero-waste dish soap?

Switching to zero-waste dish soap is a great idea because:

• Eco-friendly: It helps reduce plastic waste and pollution, contributing to a cleaner environment.
• Fewer chemicals: Zero-waste soaps often contain natural ingredients which are gentle on your skin and the planet.
• Cost-effective: Buying in bulk or using refillable containers can save you money in the long run.
• Minimal packaging: Less packaging means less waste, making it a more sustainable choice.
• Supports local businesses: Many zero-waste products are made by small businesses, so you’re supporting local entrepreneurs too.

Easy DIY Natural Dish Soap Recipe

Here’s a simple homemade natural dish soap recipe that effectively cleans dishes:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup grated castile soap (unscented or your preferred scent)
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon washing soda (sodium carbonate)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
• 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional for fragrance)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the distilled water until it reaches a gentle simmer.
2. Add the grated castile soap to the hot water and stir until the soap is completely dissolved.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
4. Add the liquid castile soap, white vinegar, washing soda, and vegetable glycerin to the mixture. Stir until thoroughly combined.
5. If you’d like a pleasant scent, add 10-15 drops of your favourite essential oil (such as lemon, lavender, or tea tree oil).
6. Let the mixture cool and thicken for a few hours. As it cools, it may become slightly gel-like in consistency.
7. Transfer the cooled dish soap into a reusable soap dispenser or a glass jar with a pump.

To use the homemade natural dish soap, simply pump a small amount onto your sponge or scrub brush and wash your dishes as usual.

This soap should cut through grease and grime effectively while being gentle on your hands and the environment.

Which is the best one for your dish-cleaning routine?

It can be challenging to select the right dish soap because each product has its own advantages and disadvantages.

However, you can begin your journey towards a plastic-free lifestyle by trying out the dish soap that I recommended below to make your decision-making easier.

Our Verdict

I recommend Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap for those who value an environmentally friendly, gentle, and effective dishwashing solution.

Its plant-derived ingredients and biodegradable formula make it a responsible choice for the planet, while its ability to cut through grease ensures your dishes will be sparkling clean.

The soap’s gentle nature means you can ditch the gloves, and its pleasant fragrance will make dishwashing a more enjoyable task.

Although some users may find the product’s lifespan shorter than desired or the fragrance too strong, the majority of users will appreciate the overall benefits and efficiency of Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap.

If you’re interested in additional advice for living sustainably and having an earth-friendly cleaning routine, take a look at these articles:

• Top 5 Best Eco-Friendly Toilet Cleaners for a Sparkling and Sustainable Bathroom
• 100 Ways to Go Green: Get Ready To Make a Big Difference!
• A Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning House Naturally in 2023

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