Dishwasher tablets are a household staple and allow for quick and convenient cleaning after dinner. With growing concern about chemical exposure in everyday products, you may be wondering: Are dishwasher tablets toxic?
The good news is that dishwasher tablets are rarely harmful when used correctly. However, many commercial cleaning products still contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment and potentially harm your health over time. So if you 're looking for products to replace dishwasher tablets , these non-toxic alternatives might be just what you're looking for.
Here, professional cleaners explain why you don't need cleaning chemicals to keep your dishes clean and the safest, non-toxic household items you can use instead.
Are dishwasher tabs toxic?
Although a 2023 study suggests that dishwashing tablets are harmful to gut health, ingredient safety specialists at Michigan State University have refuted that claim .
They found that the dishwasher tablets in the original study remained highly concentrated, while in an average dishwasher cycle the tablets were significantly diluted during the wash cycle.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
However, dishwashing tablets still contain some common cleaning product ingredients that should be avoided .
Cleaning expert Bryan Griffin, founder of Patriot Maids Cleaning Services, says: "When used as directed, the risk is generally low, but it is the continued exposure to residue on our dishes that could pose long-term health risks."
"Some harsh cleaning ingredients and chemicals to watch out for include:
- Phosphates help with cleaning, but are harmful to the environment and contribute to algae growth in water bodies.
- Chlorine whitens and disinfects very well, but can be harmful to the skin and lungs when exposed to large amounts.
- While fragrances and dyes make your kitchen smell nice, they can cause allergies and are linked to other health problems.
As founder of Patriot Maids, Bryan has spent the last few years connecting hard-working cleaning professionals with busy homeowners to clean up even the messiest homes. Since its launch in 2017, Patriot Maids serves over 2,000 households annually in 12 major cities.
Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning professional and founder of AspenClean , adds: "While dishwasher tablets are designed to clean effectively, they can leave behind residue that could pose a health risk with long-term exposure. In addition, these ingredients can have harmful effects on the environment, polluting waterways and affecting aquatic life. Choosing natural alternatives is always the safest way to reduce exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
With over 17 years of experience, Alicia specializes in developing a healthier, more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical-based cleaning products and services. AspenClean provides all-natural, chemical-free cleaning services that have revolutionized the cleaning industry and changed the way people clean their homes.
Environmentally friendly alternatives to dishwasher tablets
(Image credit: Future)
If you are concerned about prolonged exposure to chemicals, consider using environmentally certified alternatives when selecting cleaning products . Products with the EWG or EPA Safer Choice label are a safe choice if you're trying to clean your home without harming the planet or your health .
Alica recommends opting for natural, non-toxic dishwashing detergents like AspenClean Dishwasher Pods, available on Amazon . They are free of phosphates, chlorine, synthetic fragrances, SLS and SLES, making them a safer option for your family and the environment. These capsules use natural ingredients like oxygen bleach and enzymes to provide a thorough clean without leaving behind harmful residue. In addition, they are made from 100% recycled paper and are packaged plastic-free, reducing their environmental impact.
Bryan Griffin adds: "There are other eco-friendly brands like Ecover or Seventh Generation that focus on using safer ingredients.
Alternatively, you can wash the dishes by hand using an environmentally friendly detergent, such as: B. Walmart's free Seventh Generation Clear Dish Soap , or you can make your own homemade cleaning solutions to use in your best dishwasher.
For a natural way to combat grease and grime , Byran suggests "mixing baking soda, baking soda, citric acid and kosher salt." Sprinkle the mixture across the bottom of your dishwasher before running the cycle normally.
Cleaning with baking soda is also ideal for cleaning a dishwasher and ensures brilliant results with every wash cycle. For more tips on how to clean a dishwasher, see our dedicated section.
It's not just dishwasher tablets that you should worry about when limiting toxins. Many items should never be put in the dishwasher because the heat can damage them and release toxins. You can find out more about what not to put in the dishwasher in our guide.
Also, check which items should be in the top rack of your dishwasher to protect your cookware and appliances.
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire