Dish Happens - Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent

Do you ever wonder what’s left on your dishes, even after the cycle is done? Most conventional dishwasher detergents and rinse agents use harsh synthetic surfactants and additives that are great at cutting grease—but many studies now suggest they may also leave behind residues that compromise our gut health, especially the integrity of the gut lining, which is intimately tied to our immune system and overall wellbeing.

Why go non-toxic in the dishwasher?

• Protecting the gut epithelial barrier
  A 2022 study from the Swiss Institute of Allergy & Asthma Research found that rinse aids used in commercial and professional dishwashers (especially those containing alcohol ethoxylates) can damage human gut epithelial cells in lab models — decreasing the tight junctions, increasing permeability, altering gene expression related to inflammation and cell survival. Even after the wash, some chemical residue remains on the dishes, which may then be ingested with food.
• The gut microbiome & the hygiene hypothesis
  Our gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that support digestion, immune function, mood, and much more. Frequent exposure to harsh detergents, disinfectants, or antimicrobial chemicals may reduce microbial diversity or disrupt the “good” microbes that keep inflammation in check. Some research shows that low-dose, or chronic, exposure to certain detergent chemicals can alter microbiome composition and its metabolic outputs.
• Less worry, more peace of mind
  Using a plant-based, essential oil scented, non-toxic detergent means fewer synthetic surfactants, no harsh rinse aids, no unnecessary chemical residue – so dishes clean without leaving behind agents that may stress the body.

What makes ours different

• Made from plant-derived, biodegradable ingredients
• No synthetic fragrances, no harsh chemicals or rinse agents that are linked in studies to epithelial damage
• No plastics or micro-plastics that harm the environment and wildlife
• Gentle on hands, safe for those with sensitivities, and ideal for households where gut health (and overall health) is a priority
• Light essential oil scent of lemon for freshness without synthetic perfumes/fragrances

Because clean dishes shouldn’t cost your health

Choose a detergent that gets the job done and leaves you with peace of mind. One that you can trust doesn’t leave behind synthetic residues cloaked in “fresh scent.” This is not just about sparkling glassware—it’s about supporting the health of your gut, your immunity, and your family’s wellbeing (and not to mention...the planet too).

It is our mission to create the cleanest, yet most effective products for you and your family!

Cruelty Free | Vegan | Eco-Friendly | Natural | Septic Safe | Biodegradable

Free Sample: 1 load

Large Refill: 1.4 kg / 3 lbs

Starter Pack: includes a large refill bag of dishwasher detergent (3lbs), a re-usable plastic container with bamboo lid + scoop (see last photo).

INGREDIENTS

Sodium Carbonate (Washing Soda), Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Sodium Percarbonate (Peroxide), Sodium Chloride (Sea Salt), Sodium Citrate, Sodium Silicate, Amylase (Enzyme), Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Essential Oil.

HOW TO USE

• Load it: Fill your dishwasher as usual — plates, bowls, all the post-meal chaos.
• Scoop it: Fill your dishwasher’s detergent compartment with powder.
• Run it: Select your tough/heavy wash cycle and highest heat. 
• Shine on: For extra sparkle, use a natural rinse aid like white vinegar or our non-toxic formula "Rinse Clear".

💡 Tip: For extra greasy loads, sprinkle a pinch into the bottom of the machine before starting.

When switching to a natural dishwasher detergent, some families notice a cloudy “film” or mineral spots on dishes — especially in homes with hard water. This can be surprising, but it’s actually a normal and safe part of the transition.

Conventional detergents often use chemicals like phosphates to aggressively break down minerals in your water. Natural formulas don’t rely on those ingredients, which means minerals can sometimes settle on dishes instead of being chemically stripped away.

Tips for switching to non-toxic dishwashing

A little transition period is totally normal. To help your dishwasher adjust:

• Use the hottest, heaviest, or toughest wash setting at first

• Make sure your dishwasher filter is clean. Learn how here

• Use Clear Rinse rinse aid or a natural alternative consistently to support mineral breakdown

Over time, your machine and dishes should adjust — and you’re left with a cleaner system overall, without the chemical load. If you find that our detergent isn't working for you (because let's face it, every dishwasher is different and some areas have harder water than others), please contact us to let us know. 

CAUTION

Keep out of reach of children. For external use only. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately. Do not inhale. 

Link/references to studies: 

• Ogulur I, Pat Y, Aydin T, Yazici D, Rückert B, Peng Y, Kim J, Radzikowska U, Westermann P, Sokolowska M, Dhir R, Akdis M, Nadeau K, Akdis CA. Gut epithelial barrier damage caused by dishwasher detergents and rinse aids. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023 Feb;151(2):469-484. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.10.020. Epub 2022 Dec 1. PMID: 36464527.
• Ejtahed HS, Hasani-Ranjbar S, Siadat SD, Larijani B. The most important challenges ahead of microbiome pattern in the post era of the COVID-19 pandemic. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2020 Jul 3;19(2):2031-2033. doi: 10.1007/s40200-020-00579-0. PMID: 32837956; PMCID: PMC7332307.
• Rosenfeld CS. Gut Dysbiosis in Animals Due to Environmental Chemical Exposures. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2017 Sep 8;7:396. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00396. PMID: 28936425; PMCID: PMC5596107.
• Sanidad KZ, Xiao H, Zhang G. Triclosan, a common antimicrobial ingredient, on gut microbiota and gut health. Gut Microbes. 2019;10(3):434-437. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2018.1546521. Epub 2018 Nov 20. PMID: 30453815; PMCID: PMC6546352.