Let’s face it—finding an eco friendly dishwashing liquid that actually gets the job done can feel like searching for a needle in a very bubbly haystack. You want something that’s safe for the planet, gentle on your skin, and still strong enough to cut through last night’s lasagna. Sound familiar?
Over the past few months, I’ve tested more brands than I’d like to admit. From citrus-scented to unscented, thick gels to water-thin liquids, some impressed me while others barely made it off the sponge. The ones that made it to this list? They’re the real deal—cleaners that care for the earth and your dishes.
1. Ecover Zero Dish Soap
No fragrance, no dye, no nonsense.
If you’ve got sensitive skin—or a sensitive nose—this one’s a winner. It’s gentle but doesn’t skimp on grease-fighting power. I’ve used it after brunch parties with piled-up plates and it handled everything like a pro.
2. Seventh Generation Free & Clear
Reliable, easy to find, and honestly underrated.
What I like most? It rinses clean without leaving a weird residue or overpowering scent. It also comes in a recyclable bottle—bonus points for that.
3. Puracy Natural Dish Soap
Plant-powered and foamy in all the right ways.
A little goes a long way, which I didn’t expect at first. It has a light green tea & lime scent that makes doing dishes a bit more pleasant. It’s also a favorite among parents thanks to its non-toxic formula.
4. ECOS Dishmate Liquid (Almond)
This one surprised me—in a good way.
The almond scent is rich without being cloying, and it cuts through grease without drying out your hands. If you’re switching from traditional dish soap, this feels like a luxurious upgrade.
5. Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
Yes, technically it’s a multi-purpose cleaner, but it kills at dish duty.
One bottle lasts forever, and you can dilute it to suit your needs. The peppermint scent is energizing—almost like a pick-me-up for your sink.
6. Attitude Nature+ Dishwashing Liquid
Hypoallergenic and vegan, with a light citrus twist.
It comes in bulk refill formats too, which is perfect if you’re trying to reduce packaging waste. I liked how fast it rinsed off—no slick feeling left behind.
7. Better Life Dish Soap
Made famous by Shark Tank, but it’s more than just hype.
I keep this one on rotation because of its balanced formula. It’s tough on dishes but doesn’t strip your hands raw. The lemon mint scent is subtle and refreshing.
8. Biokleen Dish Liquid (Lemon Thyme)
The scent alone is worth a mention.
It smells like you’re washing dishes in an herb garden. Biokleen’s ingredients are clearly listed, and they avoid phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances—so that’s a huge plus.
9. Common Good Dish Soap (Bergamot)
Minimalist packaging, maximalist performance.
It’s concentrated, which means less plastic and fewer trips to the store. Plus, the bergamot scent is sophisticated and clean—not too fruity, not too floral.
10. AspenClean Natural Dish Soap
Certified by EcoCert and made in Canada.
I tried this one on a whim and ended up loving how effective it was on greasy pans. Also, it’s made with organic essential oils, which is a nice touch.
What to Look for in an Eco-Friendly Dishwashing Liquid
If you’re shopping around, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Plant-based ingredients: Say no to petroleum-derived surfactants.
- Biodegradable formula: The quicker it breaks down, the better.
- No artificial dyes or fragrances: These often trigger allergies and pollute waterways.
- Refillable packaging or concentrates: Less plastic, more planet-friendly.
- Certifications: Look for labels like USDA Biobased, EcoLogo, or Leaping Bunny.
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly doesn’t have to mean “less effective.” These 10 dishwashing liquids are proof that you can have sparkling dishes and a clearer conscience. And really, what’s better than that?
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these—or if there’s a hidden gem I’ve missed. I’m always up for adding another bottle to the test line-up.
