7 Best Dishwasher Detergents With Better Ingredients
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Looking for the best dishwasher detergent with better ingredients? You’re not alone. Dishwasher detergent is one of those everyday products that’s easy to overlook, but if you’re trying to make more intentional choices in your kitchen, it’s a pretty simple place to start.
There are a lot of options out there, from powders and tablets to pods, fragrance-free formulas, and products with various certifications. And while the front of the package can make everything sound great, it doesn’t always tell you much about what’s actually inside.
I rounded up some of the dishwasher detergents I’d consider if you’re looking for better ingredient transparency, fragrance-free options, and meaningful third-party certifications.
If you’re also looking for a better option for washing dishes by hand, I rounded up [7 Dish Soaps With Better Ingredients].
What I Look For In A Dishwasher Detergent
Before getting into the recommendations, here’s what I paid attention to:
- Ingredient transparency
- Fragrance-free options
- Third-party certifications
- Avoidance of ingredients I wouldn’t specifically seek out
- Packaging and plastic use
- Cleaning performance
- Powder vs. tablet vs. pod format
- Overall value
One certification you’ll see several times is EWG Verified. EWG’s verification means the specific product has been reviewed against its standards for ingredient safety and transparency. Their current dishwasher-detergent database includes several EWG Verified options.
I also looked at certifications such as EPA Safer Choice when they apply. EPA says Safer Choice-certified products have every chemical ingredient evaluated against its human-health and environmental criteria.
1. Branch Basics Dishwasher Tablets
Branch Basics is a good option if you want a dishwasher tablet without the plastic film found on many conventional dishwasher pods.
The tablets are fragrance-free and made with plant- and mineral-based ingredients. They’re also made without plastic film, essential oils, sulfates, and chlorine. Branch Basics says the tablets are EWG Verified and Leaping Bunny Certified.
I also like that Branch Basics actually publishes the ingredients for the tablets. The current formula includes ingredients such as sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, citric acid, sodium citrate, enzymes, and other cleaning agents.
The biggest downside is that Branch Basics tends to cost more than conventional dishwasher detergents. You’re paying more for the formula, the plastic-free tablet design, and the brand’s ingredient standards.
If you’ve already used Branch Basics products and like the brand, this is an easy addition to your kitchen. I recently started using Branch Basics at home, and I’ve really been liking it. I especially like having a fragrance-free option I can use for multiple cleaning jobs instead of keeping a separate product for each. It’s definitely more expensive than some conventional options, but I’ve found the versatility makes it easier for me to justify the cost.
If you’re trying to reduce added fragrance in your home, it’s worth understanding what “fragrance” actually means on a product label. I explain that in [What Does Fragrance Mean? An Easy and Simple Guide].
- HUMAN-SAFE, POWERFUL CLEANING: Our Dishwasher Tablets deliver a deep, effective clean without harsh chemicals, keeping y…
- PLASTIC-FREE & BIODEGRADABLE FORMULA: Unlike conventional dishwasher pods, our tablets are 100% PVA-free and biodegradab…
- HOW TO USE: Our tablets are compatible with all dishwashers. Place one tablet into the main dishwasher dispenser, close …
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2. Blueland Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
Blueland is a nice option if you’re trying to reduce the amount of single-use packaging that comes with your cleaning products.
The dishwasher tablets are fragrance-free and come in a reusable container with refill tablets, so you aren’t buying a new plastic bottle every time you run out. Blueland also offers a scented version, but I’d choose the fragrance-free option if avoiding added fragrance is a priority.
There’s also a surprisingly long list of certifications behind these tablets. Blueland says its dishwasher tablets are EWG Verified, EPA Safer Choice certified, USDA BioPreferred certified, Platinum Material Health Certified through Cradle to Cradle, and Leaping Bunny certified. That’s a lot of certification logos for one little dishwasher tablet. In this case, each certification tells you something specific about the product or its ingredients.
The downside is that the refill system has a higher upfront cost than grabbing a basic box of dishwasher detergent at the grocery store. You’re also paying for the reusable storage system and the company’s focus on reducing packaging.
If you like the idea of tablets and want a product with several meaningful third-party certifications, Blueland is one of the strongest options on this list.
If you haven’t come across those certifications before, I explain what they actually mean in my [5 Cleaning Product Certifications: Ultimate Guide].
- PLASTIC-FREE, ECO FRIENDLY DISHWASHER DETERGENT TABLETS. Hardworking without the harsh chemicals, our NEW and improved, …
- POWERFULLY EFFECTIVE: NEW 2x enzyme power lifts 48-hr baked-on foods, plus oxi stain-fighting action tackles coffee tea …
- EASY TO USE: Drop a tablet directly into the main dishwasher dispenser and run your dishwasher as normal.
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3. AspenClean Unscented Dishwasher Powder
If you’d rather use a powder than tablets, AspenClean is worth considering.
Its unscented dishwasher powder uses mineral- and plant-based ingredients, including enzymes and oxygen bleach, and the current formula is free from fragrance, dyes, chlorine bleach, phosphates, optical brighteners, and several other ingredients the company specifically excludes.
The powder is EWG Verified and EcoCert certified, and AspenClean also says it is Leaping Bunny Certified. It’s packaged in a zero-plastic, compostable container.
I actually like powder for dishwasher detergent because you can adjust the amount depending on the load. AspenClean recommends using one scoop for regular loads and adding more for heavily soiled dishes or particularly hard water.
The downside is that powder isn’t quite as convenient as tossing a tablet into the dishwasher. You also have to keep the container dry between uses.
If you prefer powder and want a fragrance-free option with several certifications behind it, this is one I’d put near the top of the list.
- POWERFUL BIO-ENZYME CLEANING: Our unscented dishwasher powder detergent combines advanced bio-enzymes and oxygen bleach …
- NATURAL & NON-TOXIC: We formulate our dishwasher powder with plant-based and mineral-derived ingredients for a powerful …
- 100% PLASTIC-FREE, COMPOSTABLE PACKAGING: Our dishwasher detergent powder is packaged in a zero-plastic, fully compostab…
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4. Dropps UltraWash Dishwasher Detergent Pods, Unscented
Dropps is another good option if you prefer dishwasher pods.
The unscented UltraWash pods are EWG Verified, and EWG’s current listing shows the specific product as a certified green cleaner. The formula is also free of dyes, phthalates, phosphates, chlorine, parabens, and sulfates, according to Dropps’ product information.
One thing I like about Dropps is the amount of ingredient information the company provides. It publishes ingredient disclosures for its dishwasher detergents rather than leaving you to guess what you’re actually buying.
If you’re not sure what you’re looking at when you read a detergent ingredient list, my guide to [How to Read Ingredient Lists: Essential Tips] breaks down what to look for.
The unscented version is the one I’d choose for this list. Dropps also makes a scented version, but there’s really no reason to choose the scented option if you’re specifically trying to minimize added fragrance.
The pods are convenient and easy to use, but like most pods, you’re locked into a predetermined amount of detergent for every load.
- FOR SQUEAKY CLEAN DISHES: Discover the unparalleled cleaning power of Dropps Ultra Wash Dishwasher Detergent Pods. This …
- NO PRE-WASH OR RINSE-AID NEEDED: Get sparkling dishes every time without the pre-wash. Pods are formulated with mineral-…
- ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE: Experience the convenience of these no-measure, no-mess pods. Just place one in the dishwasher dis…
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5. Green Llama Dishwasher Powder, Fragrance Free
Green Llama is a newer option I’d consider if you’re looking for a fragrance-free dishwasher powder.
The current Green Llama Dishwasher Powder is EWG Verified, and EWG says the specific formulation has been reviewed by its scientists and meets its standards for ingredient transparency and safety. The current ingredient list includes sodium carbonate, sodium percarbonate, sodium citrate, sodium metasilicate, enzymes, and other cleaning ingredients.
I like that this is a powder rather than another pod or tablet. It gives you a little more control over how much detergent you’re using, particularly if you’re dealing with different load sizes or water conditions.
The main downside is that Green Llama isn’t as widely available as some of the bigger brands on this list, so it may take a little more effort to find.
If you’re looking for a fragrance-free powder and want EWG Verified as part of your shopping criteria, it’s worth considering.
You’ll see a lot of “free from” claims when shopping for dishwasher detergent, but it’s worth knowing what those claims actually mean. I explain that in [What Does “Free From” Mean? A Practical Guide].
- * POWERFUL DISHWASHER CLEANING: Tackle baked-on food and grease effortlessly with these powerful dishwasher tablets. Enj…
- * PLANT-BASED DISHWASHER TABLETS: Green Llama uses plant-based ingredients and compostable packaging, offering a sustain…
- * SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: This fragrance-free formula is gentle on sensitive skin, making it perfect for allergy suffer…
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6. Norwex UltraZyme Dishwasher Powder
Norwex UltraZyme is another powder option, and the biggest reason it made this list is its EWG Verified status.
Norwex announced that UltraZyme Dishwasher Powder became EWG Verified in 2025, and EWG currently lists it among its Verified dishwasher detergents.
The powder uses enzymes as part of its cleaning formula, which is useful when you’re dealing with food residue and stuck-on messes.
I think this one makes the most sense if you’re already familiar with Norwex or prefer a powder format. If you’re simply looking for the easiest dishwasher detergent to grab at the store, there are more convenient options.
And because you’re paying more for a specialty cleaning brand, I’d compare the cost per load rather than just looking at the price of the package.
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7. ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods, Unscented
ATTITUDE is a good option if you’re looking for an unscented dishwasher detergent with a plant-based formula and a brand that’s pretty transparent about its ingredient standards. The dishwasher pods are available in an unscented version, which makes them a nice choice if you’re trying to cut back on added fragrance in your kitchen.
ATTITUDE says its products meet EWG standards and that the brand has an EWG Verified range, as well as vegan and cruelty-free formulas. I would keep the certification language specific to the product you’re reviewing, though, rather than assuming that every certification the brand has applies to every dishwasher.
The dishwasher pods are also convenient if you prefer a premeasured option rather than scooping powder. The downside is that pods don’t offer much flexibility in the amount of detergent you use, and they can cost more per load than some powder options.
If you’re looking for an unscented dishwasher detergent from a well-established brand with a focus on ingredient transparency, ATTITUDE is worth considering.
- DISHWASHER SOAP PERFORMANCE: These powerful dishwasher pods work as an effective dishwasher soap, cutting through grease…
- POWERFUL CLEANING TABS: These dishwasher tablets deliver deep cleaning action, removing grease and residue with ease. Co…
- HYDROSOLUBLE FILM TECHNOLOGY: These plastic-free pods made with a water-soluble film dissolve during the wash cycle, ens…
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Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to make a simple swap in your kitchen, switching to a dishwasher detergent with more transparent ingredients can be a good place to start. You don’t need to find the most expensive option or one with the longest list of certifications. What matters is finding a detergent that fits your priorities, works well in your dishwasher, and gives you enough information to feel good about what you’re using.
Personally, I think the best place to start is with the things that matter most to you. If you’re trying to reduce fragrance, choose a fragrance-free option. If packaging is a concern, look for plastic-free or refillable options. And if ingredient transparency is important to you, look for brands that clearly disclose their formulas and use meaningful third-party certifications.
I’ve found that making these kinds of swaps is much easier when you take them one at a time. You don’t have to replace everything under your kitchen sink overnight. Pick the products you use most often, do a little research, and make the change when it makes sense for you.
Commonly Asked Questions About Dishwasher Detergent
What is the best dishwasher detergent with better ingredients?
The best option depends on what matters most to you. Blueland is a strong overall choice if you want tablets and several third-party certifications, while Branch Basics is a good option if you prefer plastic-free tablets and a fragrance-free formula.
Is dishwasher detergent with better ingredients worth the extra cost?
It can be, but you don’t necessarily need to spend more. Look for transparent ingredient lists, relevant certifications, and a formula that actually works well in your dishwasher. A higher price doesn’t automatically mean a better product.
What should I look for in a dishwasher detergent?
Start with the ingredient list and look for a company that is transparent about its formula. You may also want to consider fragrance, certifications, packaging, and whether you prefer powder, tablets, or pods.
Is fragrance-free dishwasher detergent better?
If you’re trying to reduce added fragrance in your home, a fragrance-free detergent can be a good choice. It doesn’t automatically make the entire product better, though, so it’s still worth looking at the rest of the formula.
Are dishwasher pods or powder better?
Neither is universally better. Powder gives you more control over how much detergent you use, while pods and tablets are more convenient because they’re premeasured. The better option comes down to your preferences and dishwasher.
Are dishwasher tablets plastic-free?
Not necessarily. Some dishwasher tablets use a dissolvable film, while others are made without one. If avoiding plastic is important to you, check the specific product rather than assuming all tablets are plastic-free.
What dishwasher detergent certifications should I look for?
Certifications such as EPA Safer Choice and EWG Verified can provide additional information about a product’s ingredients and formulation. It’s still worth checking what a specific certification covers rather than assuming every certification means the same thing.
Is Branch Basics dishwasher detergent fragrance-free?
Yes. Branch Basics Dishwasher Tablets are fragrance-free. The brand also states that its tablets are made without plastic film, and the product has EWG Verified and Leaping Bunny certifications.
What is the difference between dishwasher detergent and dish soap?
Dishwasher detergent is formulated specifically for use in an automatic dishwasher, while dish soap is designed for washing dishes by hand. You shouldn’t substitute regular dish soap in a dishwasher because it can create excessive suds.