Over the past few decades, empty plastic containers have become quite an issue. Since the material doesn’t decompose, it can last for years in landfills and the ocean.
This can pose a serious environmental problem. For that reason, people try to limit their purchases of single-use plastic.
That’s why they use paper straws instead of plastic ones. Another easy zero-waste swap is with dish soap.
You can get detergents that come in biodegradable containers. So, if you’re looking for the best zero-waste dish soap, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these detergents. We’ll also cover the factors you should consider when you’re out shopping.
Best-Of by Category
| Category | Product |
|---|---|
| Best Eco-Friendly Option | No Tox Life Dishwashing Block Soap |
| Best With Natural Components | Elcove Foaming Dish Soap |
| Best Cost Effective | Zero Waste MVMT Soap Bar |
| Best Travel-Friendly | Donggubat Dishwashing Bar |
Best Zero-Waste Dish Soaps on the Market
There are countless dish soap brands in the world. This can make picking out just one a little challenging. So, to make your life easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best products on the market. We’ll talk about the benefits and drawbacks of each item.
Plus, we’ll cover topics like performance and the scents of the detergents.
1. No Tox Life Dishwashing Block Soap
Specifications
- Length: 3.9 in.
- Width: 2.75 in.
- Height: 1 in.
- Weight: 6 oz.
- Scent: Unscented
Features
The first dish soap on our list is No Tox’s vegan dish block. This detergent comes to us from a mother-daughter team.
They produce ethically manufactured vegan products at a US facility. On top of that, they rely on solar power to limit their carbon emissions.
The No Tox detergent is a cleaning powerhouse. It can cut through stubborn grease and grime on all sorts of surfaces. Although, this soap works best on cookware like pots, pans, and dishes.
One of the best features of the No Tox soap is the lather. As soon as you add water, you’ll see the product produce sudsy bubbles.
That means a little of the soap can go a long way.
Moving on, you can use No Tox with any type of water. No matter the hardness of the liquid, it should still activate the soap.
Pros
- Free of dyes and scents, so it’s gentle on the skin
- Can remove stubborn stains from cookware
- Works on almost all surfaces around your kitchen
Cons
- May leave a white residue on the dishes
- Lather can turn oily after a few minutes
2. Elcove Foaming Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 9.37 in.
- Width: 6.65 in.
- Height: 4.21 in.
- Weight: 2 lb.
- Scent: Mango
Features
Elcove is one of the most popular sustainable dish detergents on the market. First up, instead of relying on plastic bottles, this soap comes in a reusable glass container.
That means you’ll be able to refill the bottle instead of going out and buying a new one. Aside from the container, you get three powder packets.
Each one of these will turn into 12 ounces of detergent as soon as you add water. In addition, once you run out of the packets, you can purchase more online.
On top of that, this dish soap comes with a compostable sponge. So, the box should have everything you need to start scrubbing your dishes.
Aside from that, Alcove products are plant-based. Because of that, the item is vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.
Plus, it’s gentle on the skin and won’t dry it out.
Finally, this amazing detergent is mango scented. For that reason, your entire kitchen will smell fruity and sweet.
Pros
- Glass bottle is refillable and you can purchase additional soap packets
- Gentle on the skin and won’t cause rashes
- Comes with a compostable sponge
Cons
- Mango scent can be a little overpowering
- Doesn’t lather up all that well
3. Donggubat Dishwashing Bar
Specifications
- Length: 2.64 in.
- Width: 2.64 in.
- Height: 1.42 in.
- Weight: 5.3 oz.
- Scent: Lavender
Features
If you’re looking for an all-natural detergent, then the Donggubat soap may be the way to go. This bar consists of 100% natural ingredients that are safe for almost anyone.
That means it isn’t likely to cause any allergic reactions or rashes.
Aside from that, Donggubat is EVE Vegan certified. So, you can rest assured that this product is completely cruelty-free.
Moving on, one of the main components of the soap is glycerin. This is an organic lubricant that’ll make washing easier and moisturize your hands to boot.
The Donggubat soap comes in bar form. Because of that, it’s much more water efficient.
You’ll need to use less liquid to activate the detergent. For that reason, it can help the environment in more than one way.
Finally, the soap bar comes in a recyclable cardboard box. This means you won’t produce any waste when you buy this product.
Pros
- It can last for up to a month of continuous use
- Lavender scent is faint and pleasant
- Leaves your hands feeling soft and supple
Cons
- Isn’t all that effective with grease
- Bar can discolor after a few uses
4. Grove Co. Ultimate Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 13.03 in.
- Width: 9.53 in.
- Height: 3.7 in.
- Weight: 16 oz.
- Scent: Lemon and eucalyptus
Features
We all know how difficult it is to remove dried food from dishes. Luckily, Grove dish soap can help out with this issue.
This detergent is so powerful that it can remove any stuck-on food, even after over 48 hours. Plus, it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals.
That means you won’t find any parabens, triclosan, phosphates, or dyes in the product.
Besides that, with Grove, there’s absolutely zero plastic waste. This is because the product comes packaged in aluminum containers.
Not only are these bottles durable and lightweight, but they’re also reusable. Once you run out of soap, you can use the containers to store all sorts of liquids.
Lastly, this detergent comes with a lovely lemon and eucalyptus scent. This will leave your kitchen smelling citrusy and fresh.
Although, if you don’t like this fragrance, there are a few other options. These include orange-rosemary and lavender-thyme.
Pros
- Comes in a few scent options
- Excellent option for people with sensitive skin
- Can get rid of stubborn stuck-on food with ease
Cons
- You may have to use generous amounts of soap to get rid of grease
- Doesn’t come with a dispenser
5. Zero Waste MVMT Soap Bar
Specifications
- Length: 2.75 in.
- Width: 2.75 in.
- Height: 1.25 in.
- Weight: 5.3 oz.
- Scent: Bergamot and lime
Features
Zero Waste MVMT has been a champion of the environment for many years. The company spends many of its resources on making sure our planet is a better place for the future.
Because of that, the business created the MVMT soap bar. This detergent can cut through grease and grime without much effort.
You won’t even have to use a lot of product. On average, a single MVMT bar can replace two or three liquid detergent bottles.
That means the soap is also good for your wallet, not just the environment.
Moving on, MVMT produces its soap using Cold Process. Because of that, it has an extended shelf-life.
The soap bar can last for months without degrading or discoloration.
Besides that, this product is 100% kosher. So, everyone should be able to use this detergent, no matter their preferences.
Pros
- All the ingredients are kosher and organic
- Can replace two to three bottles of liquid detergent
- Has a long shelf-life so you can buy it in bulk
Cons
- You need to use a sponge to get the product to lather
- May leave an oily film on the dishes
6. MightyNest Dish Washing Bar
Specifications
- Length: 2.87 in.
- Width: 2.87 in.
- Height: 2.64 in.
- Weight: 7 oz.
- Scent: Lemon
Features
If you’re searching for a plastic-free dish soap, look no further than the MightNest bar. It’s easy to use and comes in plastic-free packaging.
MightyNest’s main goal is to make it easy for families to create a healthy home. For that reason, the company extensively researches every ingredient it uses.
One of the main components of this soap bar is sodium sunflowerate. This is a natural compound that can help with cleaning.
That’s because it can grab hold of both dirt and water. So, it’ll eat away at any grease that may be on your dishes.
Then, with a simple rinse, it’ll wash away all the residue.
Moving on, since the soap doesn’t contain any synthetic dyes or fragrances, it’s good for dry skin. It won’t cause irritation and can help moisturize your hands.
Pros
- Excellent option for people who have dry skin
- Easy to use with a good lather
- Safe for all members of the family, even pets
Cons
- Some customers complained that it left a residue on the sink
- Lemon scent is too faint to smell
7. Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 7.88 in.
- Width: 2.94 in.
- Height: 10.25 in.
- Weight: 3 lb.
- Scent: Lavender
Features
Mrs. Meyer’s dish soap is arguably one of the best detergents on the market. Not only can it clean plates and pots in a flash, but it also smells amazing.
Because of that, it can turn doing the dishes into a fun break from the real world.
With just a few drops of the soap, you can create a lot of bubbles without much effort. For that reason, a single bottle can last you a couple of months.
Besides that, Mrs. Meyer’s soap is ECOLOGO certified. This refers to the product being as environmentally conscious as possible.
To top it all off, Mrs. Meyer’s products are Leaping Bunny certified. That means the company has done everything it can to stop animal testing practices.
Lastly, the soap doesn’t contain any phthalates or parabens.
Pros
- Subtle scent that fills your kitchen with a flowery aroma
- Plastic containers are 100% recyclable
- Soap is biodegradable and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals
Cons
- Isn’t the best option for washing heavily greased pots and pans
- Container is a little stiff, which makes squeezing out the product somewhat challenging
8. BamboEarth Natural Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 6.06 in.
- Width: 4.33 in.
- Height: 2.4 in.
- Weight: 11.68 oz.
- Scent: Unscented
Features
Scented soaps can be incredibly polarizing. Some people enjoy the aromas, while others find them overpowering.
That’s why BamboEarth makes its detergent with no added scents. The company focuses on creating items that will appeal to the majority of the population.
For that reason, it ensures that all the ingredients are organic and safe to use. That way, the soap won’t cause allergic reactions even with extended use.
Aside from that, this product is plastic-free and palm oil free. So, you won’t have to worry about deforestation while you use this soap.
In addition, BamboEarth sends out a multi-purpose loofah sponge with the soap. Plus, you’ll get a handy brush that can help you get rid of stubborn stains.
To top it all off, BamboEarth offers a money-back guarantee. That means, if you don’t like the product, you can send it back, no questions asked.
Pros
- Unscented, which means it can work for almost everyone
- Isn’t likely to cause allergic reactions or rashes
- Comes with a free loofah and brush
Cons
- Won’t last as long as other dish soap bars
- Requires warm water to function effectively
9. Molly Suds Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 5.5 in.
- Width: 2.5 in.
- Height: 7.5 in.
- Weight: 2.26 lb.
- Scent: Unscented
Features
If you live in an area with hard water, then Molly Suds dish soap may be the way to go. This detergent can cut through mineral build-up instantly.
Plus, it’s great at getting rid of grease, grime, and even dust. So, you’ll be able to use this soap for more than just the dishes.
Other than that, the detergent is specially formulated to kill about 99% of bacteria. This antiseptic action makes it the ideal option for any healthy home.
Moving on, Molly Suds makes the product using plant-powered ingredients. So, it’s safe for your skin and can last for a long while on the shelf.
Even though it comes in a plastic bottle, the soap is still eco-friendly. That’s because you can recycle the container with ease.
Pros
- Can cut through grime and dust on various surfaces
- Has antiseptic action, so it can kill about 99% of bacteria
- Eco-safe and easy to use
Cons
- Product formula isn’t consistent across all batches
- May leave the dishes feeling slightly slick
10. Puracy Dish Soap
Specifications
- Length: 2.4 in.
- Width: 2.4 in.
- Height: 8.6 in.
- Weight: 1 lb.
- Scent: Green tea and lime
Features
If you’re looking for a fast-acting zero-waste dish soap, Puracy may be the answer. The detergent comes with six super-plant enzymes.
Because of that, it can wipe away grime with little elbow grease.
Moving on, one of the main ingredients in the soap is aloe vera. This component is useful for many reasons.
First up, it’s an excellent cleaner. It’ll leave any surface looking shiny and spotless. Other than that, aloe vera has skin-care properties.
It can soften your hands as you clean the dishes.
Besides that, the Puracy detergent contains citric acid. Not only is that an effective cleaner, but it’ll leave your kitchen smelling bright and fresh.
Finally, the Puracy soap bottles are refillable. You can buy additional detergent packets online to replenish your supply.
Pros
- Six-enzyme action can get rid of the most stubborn stains
- You can buy refills for the detergent
- Has citric acid and aloe vera, which are both amazing cleaners
Cons
- On the pricier side
- Nozzle can get clogged easily
Benefits of Using Zero-Waste Dish Soap
There are several benefits to using zero-waste dish soap. In this section, we’ll cover the biggest advantages of making the switch.
1. Eco-Friendly Option
Plastic is one of the most useful materials in the world. That’s because it’s easy to shape and manufacture.
Plus, it’s incredibly durable and lightweight. Although, there are many drawbacks to using plastic.
For starters, it’s one of the leading causes of marine life extinction. When plastic makes its way into the ocean, it can stop fish and other sea creatures from swimming around.
It’ll pollute their environment and may result in loss of life.
On top of that, plastic isn’t all that great for humans. If it spends any time in the sun, it can give off toxic fumes.
That’s why switching to zero-waste dish soap is crucial. You’ll reduce plastic pollution and keep our oceans and landfill sites clean.
2. Natural Components
The majority of zero-waste dish soaps rely on natural ingredients. This can be beneficial to you in many ways.
For starters, organic components are a lot gentler on the skin. Because of that, you won’t have to worry about drying out your hands as you clean.
Plus, people are less likely to have allergic reactions to natural ingredients. That makes these products ideal for individuals who have sensitive skin.
Moving on, zero-waste soaps don’t leave a toxic residue. So, they should be safe to use around your children and pets.
3. Cost Effective
When people hear eco-friendly, they automatically assume that a product is expensive. While zero-waste dish soaps can be pricey, they’re usually more cost-effective.
That’s because they last a great while longer than regular detergents.
On average a zero-waste soap bar is equivalent to two bottles of liquid detergent. This means it can last you at least twice as long.
Besides that, with the plastic-free soaps, you’re investing in the future. You’re doing your part to ensure our planet can sustain humans for years to come.
4. Travel-Friendly
Most zero-waste soaps come in bar form. While this may be strange to many people, it’s actually better.
For starters, with a bar, you’ll have much more control over how much detergent you use. Besides that, it’s a travel-friendly option.
If you go on a trip with a liquid detergent, you risk it spilling all over your clothes. This can put a damper on your journey.
However, with a bar, this isn’t much of an issue. All you have to do is wrap the soap in a few sheets of paper towel and you’re ready to go.
Factors to Consider When Buying Zero-Waste Dish Soap
Now that you know the advantages of zero-waste soap, there are a few other factors you should consider. In this section, we’ll talk about the aspects you need to keep an eye on when shopping for a detergent.
1. Ethically Sourced Ingredients
Before you buy any product, it’s important that you read its ingredient list. That way, you can ensure that all the components are ethically sourced.
You have to remember, just because a company calls an item eco-friendly, doesn’t mean it’s true.
So, you’ll need to check the ingredient list yourself to make sure.
Naturally, some of the components may be completely new to you. In that case, head over to the Environmental Working Group.
This website covers most of the common ingredients found in zero-waste detergents.
2. Compostable or Reusable Packaging
While the dish soap itself may be eco-friendly, you have to take into account the packaging.
Most zero-waste detergents come in cardboard boxes. This will significantly cut down on plastic pollution. Other than that, some products use glass or aluminum packaging.
Yet, there are a few brands that use plastic bottles. So, before you buy the dish soap, make sure that the containers are recyclable.
3. Brand Ethics
Before you buy a zero-waste dish soap, it’s a good idea to research the company that makes it. That way, you’ll know exactly who you’re supporting.
Ideally, you want a brand that’s cruelty-free and environmentally friendly. So, take a minute to go through their history and what they stand for.
If you’re looking for the best zero-waste dish soap, there are a few factors to consider. These include the ingredients, packaging, and brand ethics.
Thankfully, there are many products that check off all the items on that list. One of our favorites is the No Tox Life Dishwashing Block Soap.
It can get rid of grease in a flash and it smells nice. Other than that, you can opt for Puracy or Molly Suds soap.
