DIY Dishwasher tablets – Not Toxic

Leave a CommentDIY Dishwasher tablets – Not ToxicAround the House, Cleaning Things

Dishwasher tablets are icky. They contain potentially harmful ingredients, including microplastics, synthetic fragrances, and toxic chemicals. Here’s a breakdown of the concerns:

  1. Microplastics: These are tiny plastic particles that can be released during the dishwashing process. They pose environmental and health risks as they can enter waterways and potentially harm aquatic life, and there’s growing concern about their impact on human health through ingestion or inhalation.
  2. Synthetic Fragrances: These are often used to make the tablets smell pleasant but can contain phthalates, which are linked to hormonal disruptions and other health issues. They can also contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause respiratory problems or skin irritation.
  3. Toxic Chemicals: Ingredients like chlorine and phosphates, which are sometimes found in dishwasher tablets, can be harmful. Chlorine can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation, and when mixed with other cleaning products, it can form toxic fumes. Phosphates, although less common due to regulations, can cause environmental harm by promoting algae growth in waterways, leading to ecosystem disruption.

Here is a recipe that’s super easy for you to make yourself from ingredients that break down into non-harming minerals.

It’s easy

The recipe for homemade non-toxic dishwasher tablets involves three ingredients: one cup of baking soda, a quarter cup of citric acid, and one tablespoon of dish soap. I buy citric acid from Amazon because I’m lazy.

  • Mix these ingredients together using a whisk or your hands until well combined. (Citric acid will sting if you have a scratch on your fingers so you may want to wear gloves.)
  • Pack the mixture into a silicone ice tray, ensuring it is firmly pressed into each compartment.
  • Allow the mixture to rise for about 10 minutes, then scrape off any excess and save it for later use.
  • Let the tablets set for 4-12 hours before removing them from the tray.
  • Store the finished tablets in an airtight container until ready to use, placing one tablet directly into the dishwasher per load.