The Truth About Dishwasher Detergent Residue: What’s Really Left on Your Dishes

Posted By: Truly Free Home

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Posted On: 12/19/2024

SHOP TRULY FREE HOME LAUNDRY WASHBig brands have spent even bigger bucks convincing us that our dishwasher detergent needs to look and feel a certain way to work well.

As a result, you’ll find traditional dishwasher detergents—like the ones you grew up with—are filled with unnecessary and harmful chemicals, such as:

  • Dyes: Usually listed under their color name, dyes can contain irritating compounds such as benzidine, a known carcinogen. They’ve also been linked to mood disorders, like hyperactivity.

  • 1,4-dioxane: Commonly used as a surfactant to help break down grease and grime on dishes, 1,4-dioxane is linked to an increased risk of cancer and can cause respiratory issues if inhaled.

  • Formaldehyde: Tricky to spot on an ingredient label and used as a preservative, formaldehyde is a toxic respiratory irritant and known carcinogen that can be absorbed by the skin.

  • Phthalates: Typically found in toxic fragrances, phthalates are known endocrine disruptors linked to developmental, reproductive, brain, immune, and other problems. 


  • Microplastics: Many dishwasher pods are made with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA/PVOH). This water-soluble synthetic polymer breaks down into microplastics that can enter the food chain and oceans and pose a risk to ecosystems and human health.


  • Phosphates: Used to soften water and prevent mineral buildup on dishes, phosphates can cause water pollution and algal blooms.

The good news is, you have better, healthier options—like Truly Free Home Non-Toxic Dishwasher Soap. 

Why Truly Free Home Dishwasher Detergent is a Safe, Non-Toxic Alternative

You don’t have to risk your health to have clean dishes. Truly Free Home Dishwasher Soap skips all the harmful chemicals found in conventional detergents. Instead, we use nature-powered enzymes that break down even the toughest, baked-on foods—leaving your plates, glasses, and utensils spotless without any toxic residue.

SHOP TRULY FREE HOME LAUNDRY WASH