If you’re trying to reduce toxins in your home, your dishwasher detergent is one of the easiest (and cheapest) swaps you can make.
Most conventional dishwasher detergents contain synthetic fragrances, harsh surfactants, dyes, and preservatives that leave residue on dishes you eat from every single day. That never sat right with me, especially as parents.
So I started making my own DIY non-toxic dishwasher powder, and I’ve been using it consistently with great results.
This recipe is simple, affordable, and made with ingredients many non-toxic homes already have.
Why I Ditched Store-Bought Dishwasher Detergent
Many mainstream dishwasher detergents contain ingredients that may:
• Leave chemical residue on dishes
• Irritate sensitive skin
• Trigger allergies or headaches
• Disrupt hormones over long-term exposure
Even “eco” brands can be expensive or still include ingredients I personally avoid.
Making my own dishwasher powder gives me:
✔️ Full ingredient transparency
✔️ No artificial fragrance
✔️ No dyes or fillers
✔️ A fraction of the cost
My DIY Non-Toxic Dishwasher Powder Recipe
• 1 cup borax
(https://amzn.to/44GP2H1)
• 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)
(https://amzn.to/4qtOzjY)
• ½ cup citric acid (optional, but very helpful for hard water & residue)
(https://amzn.to/4aBPzx6)
• ½ cup salt (optional – improves cleaning performance)
(https://amzn.to/4r43dz2)
Tip: All ingredients should be unscented and pure, with no additives.
How to Make It:
1. Add all ingredients to a glass jar or airtight container (https://amzn.to/4tmNXia)
2. Mix thoroughly
3. Store in a dry place
Use 1–2 tablespoons per dishwasher load
For best results, add white vinegar to the rinse aid compartment.
How This Non-Toxic Dishwasher Powder Works:
Each ingredient has a purpose:
• Borax – Boosts cleaning power and helps break down grease
• Washing soda – Softens water and lifts food residue
• Citric acid – Helps prevent cloudy dishes and mineral buildup
• Salt – Improves performance and helps with water hardness
This combo cleans effectively without coating your dishes in unnecessary chemicals.
Important Notes (Read This Before Using):
This DIY dishwasher detergent works best for:
✔️ Everyday dishes
✔️ Light to moderate food residue
It may not be ideal for:
❌ Heavily baked-on or burnt food
(Scrub and wash off before putting in the dishwasher)
Troubleshooting Tips:
• Cloudy dishes?
→ Reduce the amount used or add citric acid
• Residue buildup?
→ Make sure you’re using vinegar in the rinse aid compartment
Like most non-toxic swaps, this recipe works best when paired with reasonable expectations and proper dishwasher maintenance.
Is DIY Dishwasher Powder Safe?
When used properly, this recipe is commonly used in non-toxic households. That said:
• Always store out of reach of children
• Avoid inhaling powder when mixing
• Do not mix with other cleaners
If you have specific appliance concerns, check your dishwasher manufacturer’s guidelines.
Why I Share Recipes Like This on NonToxicDeals.com
My goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.
Non-toxic living should feel:
✨ Practical
✨ Affordable
✨ Sustainable for real families
This DIY dishwasher powder is one of those swaps that makes a real difference without overcomplicating life.
If you try it, I’d love to hear how it works for you 💚
This actually works amazing and really cleans my dishes! Thanks for sharing this!