Picture this: a world drowning in plastic jugs from dish soaps, suffocating our planet with every scrub. Yikes! But hey, we know there are some game-changing solutions – zero waste dish soap!
With conventional dish soaps contributing to the plastic apocalypse, it’s time to embrace the bubbly brilliance of this eco-friendly alternative. So, get ready to scrub away guilt and transform your kitchen into a sustainable sanctuary, one sud at a time. Dive in as we explore the marvelous world of zero waste dish soap!
Our criteria for selecting the best zero-waste dish soaps
Packaging ( It has to be highly recyclable, that is, aluminum or steel, or otherwise paper or cardboard. Ideally, no packaging would be the best solution.
Biodegradability of the product.
Ingredients. (Obviously, that’s got to take all the boxes, and we want to ensure that the components are not harmful to the planet or our skin.)
Ethical and sustainable practices of the company. Like B-Corp, 1% for the Planet, and give back programs as well as paying fair wages.
Here’s the list of the best zero waste dish soap bars
The solid dish soap concentrate
1. NoTox Life Dish Soap Block
NoTox Life soap dish block is a powerful, vegan, and biodegradable reusable dish soap block that will leave your dishes sparkling clean. This soap block has a new formula that includes aloe vera, which is gentle on your hands. It is long-lasting, eco-friendly, and made with biodegradable, vegan ingredients.
Highlights:
Vegan
Phosphate-free
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
Gluten-free
Cruelty-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Made without palm oil
Price: USD 8.99 for a 6 oz | 170g block
Get 10% OFF with code ZEROWASTEMAN
2. Bestowed Essential: All-Natural, Vegan, Zero Waste Soap Bar
Bestowed Essential’s soap bar is a natural, vegan, and zero waste solution to your cleaning needs. It consists of only natural ingredients, including olive oil, water, coconut oil, french green clay, pacific sea salt, and sodium hydroxide (which is a necessary component of the soap-making process but does not remain in the final product).
Highlights:
Made with only natural ingredients.
Vegan and zero waste soap bar.
Crafted with olive oil, coconut oil, french green clay, and
Pacific Sea Salt
Price: 12oz bar costs $15.99
3. Simply Zero
Experience the wonders of sustainability with Simply Zero, the ultimate eco-friendly soap bar. Packaged in a reusable tin, this zero waste gem minimizes unnecessary waste. Simply Zero’s all-natural formula of only six ingredients effortlessly tackles grease while remaining gentle on your skin and the planet.
Highlights:
Made with six natural ingredients.
Comes in a reusable, recyclable tin.
Zero waste approach.
Effortlessly tackles grease while remaining gentle on your skin and the planet.
Fragrance-free
Gluten-free
Cruelty-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Made without palm oil
Price: 7 oz bar costs $18 (tin included)
4. Meloria Means Better
MeloriaMeansBetter is a brand that embodies sustainability and superior quality. With a range of fragrance-free or lemon-scented options.
These products are crafted with organic and vegan ingredients, ensuring a conscious choice for your well-being and the environment.
Proudly made in the USA and never tested on animals, MeloriaMeansBetter prioritizes ethical practices. Their commitment to zero waste packaging means you can indulge guilt-free, knowing you’re positively impacting the environment.
Highlights:
Range of fragrance-free or lemon-scented options.
Vegan
Organic
Made in the USA
Fragrance-free
Cruelty-free
Made without palm oil
Price: 12oz bar costs $15.
5. EcoWarehouse NZ’s
This bar is a powerful and eco-friendly option from New Zealand. With just three natural ingredients. It’s biodegradable, plastic-free, and zero waste, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Made with 100% natural ingredients and pure essential oils, it ensures a refreshing cleaning experience. Say goodbye to plastic bottles and harsh chemicals. This cruelty-free, vegan soap is also palm oil-free and free from synthetic fragrances and colors.
Highlights:
Vegan
Phosphate-free
Biodegradable
Plastic-free
Synthetic fragrance-free
No artificial colors
Cruelty-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Made without palm oil
Price: $6.90 for 100g bar
6. Rfresh
With Rfresh, you can choose from four refreshing scents to make your dishwashing experience even more delightful. Handcrafted with the utmost care, this dish soap comes packaged in plastic-free materials, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
Highlights:
Four refreshing scents
Handcrafted
Paraben-free
Non-toxic
No sodium lauryl sulfate
Vegan
Mineral oil free
Petroleum free
Cold-pressed plant-based oils
Price: $8.80 for 4.5 oz
7. Plantish Future
Introducing the eco-friendly 8 oz Solid Dishwashing Soap Bar! This gentle yet effective soap conquers kitchen grease while reducing waste with its plastic-free packaging. It is ideal for use with dishcloths, loofahs, or brushes and removes stains on fabric items.
Highlights:
Four ingredients only
Gentle on hands
No additives
No preservatives
Fragrance-free
Non-irritating on the skin
Handmade in Vancouver
Made without palm oil
Price: 8oz for $15 CAD
8. Sea Witch Botanicals
Introducing Sea Witch Botanicals, a brand that draws inspiration from the mystical sea witches to bring you a genuinely enchanting dish soap experience. Their dish soap is crafted with the utmost care, featuring an all-natural formula.
With Sea Witch Botanicals, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dishes are being cleansed without any harmful additives. What sets this ethical dish soap brand apart is its remarkable longevity. When stored correctly, it can last 1-2 months, providing a long-lasting solution for your dishwashing needs.
Highlights:
Biodegradable
Free from phthalates
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
Cruelty-free
Contains natural degreaser
Made without palm oil
Price: 4oz cost $6 USD
9. Battle green
Battle Green, is a brand from the UK that offers an extraordinary organic dish soap block. This dish soap block is crafted with organic ingredients, ensuring a natural and sustainable choice for your dishwashing needs.
Priced at 7.95 pounds or approximately 10.28 USD, it provides excellent value for its quality and eco-friendly features. With Battle Green, you can embrace a greener lifestyle while tackling grease and grime effectively.
Highlights:
Organic coconut oil
White Kaolin clay from the UK
Lemongrass essential oil uplifts and fights bacteria
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Made without palm oil
Price: 165g cost $10.28
10. Zero Waste MVMT Solid Dish Soap Bar
These eco-friendly bars are formulated to cut through grease and grime with ease!
Each bar is delicately scented, utilizing natural, premium essential oils instead of artificial fragrances. Prefer something even more gentle? Try our Unscented Solid Dish Bar, now available in a scent-free version!
Not only are they environmentally responsible, but they’re also incredibly long-lasting: 1 Bar lasts on average 2-4 months. Handcrafted in the heart of Canada, these sustainable dish soap and bars are Handmade with love in Winnipeg. Give them a try and make a positive impact on our planet!
Highlights:
Vegan
Dye-Free
Fragrance-free
Fair Trade
Cruelty-free
Certified Organic
Made without palm oil
Price: USD 8.99 for a 6 oz | 170g block
Liquid dish soap
1. Etee’s Dish Soap Concentrate
Etee’s innovative approach to packaging liquid dish soap is genuinely groundbreaking. Their unwavering commitment to biodegradability is evident in every aspect of their product. With Etee’s biodegradable dish soap pods, users can create substantial amounts of eco-friendly dish soap. This is a more sustainable option, and Etee also ensures a safer and healthier cleaning experience with its formula free from harmful substances.
Highlights:
Biodegradable pods make 400ml of dish soap.
Phosphate-free
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
SLS-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Price: 3 Pack for $19 with subscription.
2. The Good Fill
The Good Fill offers an impressive dish soap that effortlessly tackles grime while remaining gentle on your skin. Their refillable concentrated soap comes in a BPA-free plastic pouch, which they proudly claim contains 93% less plastic than a traditional, plastic-free dish soap bottle.
What makes it even better is that you can conveniently mail the refill pouch back to them for reuse. This effort toward a circular society is genuinely commendable. Remember the 5 R’s? The Good Fill exemplifies the importance of reducing waste, reusing materials, and taking steps toward a more sustainable future.
Highlights:
Vegan
Phosphate-free
Paraben-free
Soy-free
Fragrance-free
Gluten-free
Cruelty-free
100% biodegradable
Made without palm oil
16oz Filled Amber Glass Pump Bottle $9.67
3. The Davis Refillery
Looking for eco-friendly cleaning solutions for a greener lifestyle? Look no further than Davis Refillery! Their mom-powered passion ensures that they only offer carefully chosen, Earth-conscious products that are both effective and environmentally friendly. From biodegradable and non-toxic options to cruelty-free alternatives, their products will keep your home sparkling clean without harming the planet. Plus, their refillable containers and focus on reducing waste embody the zerowasteman spirit, supporting local communities and promoting a sustainable future. So why not make a difference, one clean dish at a time? Join Davis Refillery and start living your best green life today!
Highlights:
Vegan
Phosphate-free
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
Gluten-free
Cruelty-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Made without palm oil
Price: 8oz for $4.14
3. Threemain
A brand committed to sustainability and reducing single-use plastic waste. Threemain offers a remarkable dish soap packaged in an aluminum bottle designed to be refilled for life. This innovative approach ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of their eco-friendly dish soap while minimizing environmental impact. Opting for the refillable aluminum bottle reduces plastic waste and supports a more sustainable future.
Threemain’s eco dish soap brand is planet-friendly and highly effective at cutting through grease and grime on your dishes. With their thoughtfully formulated soap, you can achieve sparkling clean results while making a positive environmental choice.
Highlights:
Vegan
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
Gluten-free
Cruelty-free
Biodegradable
Price: USD 29.99 for a three 16 oz bottles
Tools of the Trade
Here are some kitchen tools that can help you reduce waste in your kitchen when cleaning dishes:
Related: The 9 best eco-friendly dish brushes to replace your plastic habit
Eco-Friendly Kitchen Cleaning Brush
This is an effortless method to reduce plastic in your household. Simply opt for a wooden dish brush; my favorite is the Redecker brush(because I am german). However, I discovered one with a steel handle and a replaceable head if you prefer a more durable option, which you can also find at earthhero’s redecker store. Choosing these eco-friendly alternatives can positively impact the environment while maintaining a clean and sustainable kitchen.
Bamboo Soap Tray
Bamboo soap trays are a fantastic way to extend the lifespan of your soap. It’s essential to avoid leaving your soap sitting in water continuously, as this can significantly reduce its longevity. With bamboo soap trays, you can prevent excess water accumulation, ensuring your soap stays dry and lasts longer. Not only are these trays affordable, but they also add a stylish touch to your bathroom or kitchen. By investing in a bamboo soap tray, you not only protect your soap but also save money in the long run.
Durable Scrub Brush
You know how one dish-cleaning tool sometimes isn’t enough? Particularly when we’re up against burnt-on grease in our pots? That’s when it’s super helpful to have a reliable scrub brush that can truly tackle those stubborn stains. And the good news is, we’ve got an eco-friendly option for you that’ll take care of the issue without adding to our growing landfill problem.
Soap Cage
Let’s explore the soap shaker, a waste-reducing gadget perfect for eco-friendly cleaning. These wire mesh containers hold a soap bar, transforming it into a bubbly lather when shaken in water, ideal for washing dishes, laundry, or even bathing.
Soap shakers help reduce plastic pollution by replacing liquid soaps in plastic bottles with sustainable bar soaps. They also extend soap life by allowing it to dry between uses.
To use, place a soap bar in the soap shaker, secure it, and shake in water to create a lather.
Scouring pads
Scouring pads are crucial in removing burnt residues and providing a deep clean for your pots and pans. However, you may be familiar with the conventional green scouring pads made entirely of plastic.
Fortunately, there’s a sustainable alternative available. Coconut husk scouring pads are an excellent choice, as they are highly durable and effective in tackling challenging cleaning tasks. I must say, I was genuinely impressed by how long they last and their remarkable cleaning capabilities. By opting for coconut husk scouring pads, you not only minimize plastic waste but also achieve outstanding cleaning results. Make the switch today and experience coconut husk grinding pads’ eco-friendly and efficient cleaning power.
Swedish dishcloth
Swedish dishcloths have become an essential part of my cleaning routine. Whether wiping down the table or cleaning glasses, they always come in handy. You’ve likely come across the plastic versions in the supermarket, cleverly marketed as eco-friendly with their green packaging. However, beware, as these are just another source of plastic, and advertising companies can be deceptive. Your best choice is to opt for the original Swedish dishcloths.
Here’s a pro tip: If your Swedish dishcloths develop an unpleasant smell, let them soak in white wine vinegar for a few hours, and they’ll be good as new.
The best part is that you can quickly dispose of these dishcloths in your home compost since they are made from tree pulp. By using Swedish dishcloths, you not only avoid contributing to plastic waste but also enjoy the convenience of a compostable cleaning tool. Say goodbye to plastic and embrace Swedish dishcloths’ sustainable and effective cleaning power.
Dish soap tablets for your machine
1. Earthbreeze Power Pebbles
Earthbreeze is at it again, saving the planet one dish at a time with their new Power Pebbles for dishwashers! These little wonders are here to give your dishes a spotless, squeaky clean while keeping our planet in mind. Say goodbye to grease and grime, because these powerful pebbles can handle everything from your daily dishwashing routine to those epic dinner party messes.
But that’s not all! Earthbreeze is all about sustainability, which means their packaging is completely plastic-free and biodegradable (even the ink!). Just toss a Power Pebble into your dishwasher, and voila! No scrubbing is required, my friends. Plus, they dissolve effortlessly in your favorite cycle, leaving nothing behind but sparkling dishes and a warm, fuzzy feeling of knowing that you’re doing your part for Mother Earth. So why not give these Earth-friendly pebbles a try and help create a cleaner, greener future?
Highlights:
Fragrance-free or
Lemon citrus
Biodegradable packaging
Biodegradable ink
Easy to use
No scrubbing required
carbon-neutral shipping
1% member for the planet
Price: 2 Pack for $28 that’s 60 Tablets
Subscribe and save 40%
2. Dropps: Effective and Sustainable Dishwasher Detergent Pods
Dropps, a renowned zero waste company, offers more than just laundry tabs and cleaning products. Their Dishwasher Detergent pods are highly effective and can be used in any dishwasher, regardless of the water temperature. The best part is that these cleaning pods eliminate the need for prewashing your dishes, saving you both time and water.
Highlights:
No dyes
Phosphate-free
Phthalates-free
Chlorine-free
Fragrance-free
Cruelty-free
Pods are watersoluble
Biodegradable membrane (PVA)
Offers a variety of other sustainable and eco-friendly products, such as Swedish dishcloths and refillable kitchen dish spray kits
Price: 64 pods = USD 18.75 with subscription
3. If You Care Automatic Dishwasher Tablets
Looking for an eco-friendly option for your automatic dishwasher? If You Care has got you covered with their super-concentrated dishwasher tablets. These small but mighty tabs are made with a potent blend of mineral and plant-derived ingredients, including enzymes, to leave your dishes sparkling clean.
Despite their small size, these dishwasher tablets pack a powerful punch and are biodegradable, non-toxic, and have minimal impact on aquatic life. They contain no phosphates or chlorine, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. What’s more, the tablets are wrapped in water-soluble, biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, so there’s no need to unwrap them.
Did you know that If You Care Automatic Dishwasher Tablets use plant ingredients derived from coconut and rapeseed? This further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Highlights:
Super-concentrated formula
Mineral & plant-derived ingredients
Phosphates-free
Chlorine-free
Biodegradable
Wrapped in biodegradable PVA film
Non-toxic
Derived from coconut and rapeseed
Made without palm oil
Price: A pack of 40 tablets costs $17.99.
4. Grove Co Pure Power Dishwasher Detergent
Looking for a powerful dishwasher detergent that’s also sustainable? Look no further than Pure Power Dishwasher Detergent Packs! These extra strength packs are proven to eliminate tough, 48-hour baked-on food and stains from dishes. And now, they come in infinitely recyclable tin-plated steel packaging, minimizing plastic waste and making them a healthier choice for you and the planet.
Highlights:
Removes tough, 48-hour baked-on food and stains
Made with 91% plant-based ingredients
Paraben-free
Sulfate-free
Fragrance-free
Chlorine-free
Cruelty-free
Wrapped in biodegradable PVA film
Price: $10.99 for a 30-pack beyond clean
5. True Earth
Tru Earth Dishwasher Detergent Tablets are the ideal combination of convenience and sustainability!
These small, waste-free wonders are here to change the way you do your dishes. Each tab is perfectly calculated for one load of sparklingly clean dishes – simply snap off a tablet, place it in your dishwasher’s detergent dispenser, and wait for the magic to happen. With powerful grease and stain fighters and a built-in rinse assist, your dishes will emerge from the depths of your dishwasher looking spotless.
Tru Earth’s detergent is made with natural, biodegradable chemicals, ensuring the safety and health of our planet and your home. It’s gentle on our rivers and the creatures that inhabit them, so you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals in your kitchen. Conquer your pile of dishes while keeping your home and environment clean with these zero-waste detergent tablets. Go green with Tru Earth!
Highlights:
Natural
Includes a built-in rinse aid for a spot-free finish
Paraben-free
Phosphate-free
Fragrance-free
Clorine bleach-free
Cruelty-free
Septic-safe, biodegradable
Contains 30 tablets
Price: USD 8.99 for a 6 oz | 170g block
Powder dish soap
1. Butter Me Up Organics: All-Natural Dishwasher Soap
If you’re looking for a way to get your dishes super clean without using harsh chemicals, Butter Me Up Organics has got you covered. Their handmade dishwasher soap is made with only four ingredients, one of which is certified organic citric acid. This 1lb bag of soap will go a long way, as you only need about a tablespoon for a standard load. Plus, if you want an extra cleaning boost without any chemicals, simply add some white vinegar as a rinse aid. Your dishes will look and shine beautifully with this all-natural mix.
Shop with confidence since all Butter Me Up Organics items are fully edible and manufactured with non-toxic premium ingredients. This zero-waste company is dedicated to sustainability and, if possible, upcycling packaging. You can be confident that your dishes are being cleaned in a safe and natural way.
Highlights:
Kosher Salt
Washing Soda
Sodium Borate
Non-GMO Citric Acid
No sulfates, phthalates or paraben
No synthetic dyes or fragrances
Cruelty-free
Organic
Zero waste company
Price: $12.75 for 16oz
What is Zero Waste Dish Soap?
Zero waste dish soap is a cleaning product free from plastic packaging and toxic chemicals, and it is made from natural ingredients that are safe for the environment and our health. Unlike conventional liquid dish soaps, zero waste dish soap is packaged in eco-friendly materials such as glass jars, metal tins, or compostable packaging. This makes it a sustainable alternative that helps in reducing waste.
Why Choose Zero Waste Dish Soap?
Choosing zero waste dish soap brands has several benefits. Firstly, it helps reduce plastic waste, one of the biggest environmental problems we face today. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, severely threatening marine life. We can significantly reduce our plastic footprint by choosing zero waste living, no-waste soap brands.
Secondly, zero and low waste dish soaps is made from natural ingredients that are safe for the environment and our health. Unlike most conventional dish soaps containing toxic chemicals such as phosphates, parabens, and sulfates, zero waste dish soap is free from harmful ingredients. This makes it a better option for those seeking a safer and healthier cleaning solution.
Lastly, choosing zero waste dish soap can save you money in the long run. Since it is packaged in eco-friendly materials, it can be refilled or reused. This means you don’t have to keep buying new plastic bottles, which can be expensive.
Related: How to go zero waste on a budget?
How is Zero Waste Dish Soap Made?
Zero waste dish soap is made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil, castile soap, and baking soda. These ingredients are mixed with water and other natural additives such as essential oils, vinegar, or lemon juice to create a cleaning solution. The mixture is then poured into eco-friendly packagings such as glass jars or metal tins.
Types of Zero Waste Dish Soap
There are three zero waste dish soap types: bar, liquid, and powdered.
Bar Soap
Bar soap is a solid form of dish soap that is made from natural ingredients. It is typically packaged in paper or cardboard, making it a zero waste option. Bar soap is versatile and can also be used for other cleaning purposes.
Liquid Soap
Liquid soap is a concentrated form of dish soap that is packaged in glass or metal bottles. It is mixed with water to create a cleaning solution. Liquid soap is easy to use and available in various scents and formulations.
Powdered Dish Soap
Powdered dish soap is a dry form of dish soap that is packaged in compostable. It is mixed with water.
How to use zero waste dish soap?
Using zero waste dish soap is a great way to reduce plastic waste in your household. Different types of zero waste dish soap are available, each with unique properties. Here are some tips on how to use them:
1. Dish soap bars: Wet your dish brush or sponge, rub it onto the soap bar, and then use it to clean your dishes. Rinse well after use and allow the soap bars to dry in a dish soap tray.
2. Dish soap spray: Fill a spray bottle with water and add the dish soap concentrate. Shake well and spray onto your dirty dishes, then scrub with a brush or sponge. Rinse well after use.
3. Dish soap pods: Drop a pod into your dishwasher and run the cycle as normal.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and store your zero waste dish soap in a cool, dry place. With these tips, you can effectively clean your dishes while reducing environmental impact.
Related: A list of zero waste swaps for a successful eco warrior.
Here are some tips to consider when choosing the right zero waste dish soap:
1. Look for natural ingredients: Opt for dish soaps made with natural, plant-based ingredients, which are gentle on your skin and eco-friendly.
2. Consider the packaging: Choose dish soaps that come in reusable or recyclable packaging to minimize waste.
3. Check for biodegradability: Make sure the soap is biodegradable and won’t harm the environment.
4. Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid dish soaps that contain harsh chemicals such as phosphates, parabens, and sulfates, as they can harm your health and the environment.
5. Consider the price: Look for a zero-waste dish soap that fits your budget and is cost-effective in the long run, such as concentrated formulas or refillable options.
With these tips in mind, you can choose a zero waste dish soap that meets your needs and helps reduce your environmental impact.
