When it comes to household products, dishwasher detergent should be more noticed. However, the chemicals in many popular brands can leave behind toxic residues that pose risks to your health and the environment. For Costco shoppers, navigating the detergent aisle requires a critical eye to avoid hidden toxins in mainstream products.
Here’s a detailed look at which detergents to avoid, which ones are better (but not great), and the safest option available at Costco for a non-toxic clean.
The Problem with Conventional Dishwasher Detergents
Many dishwasher detergents rely on harsh cleaning agents, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colorants. These ingredients don’t just clean your dishes—they can leave behind chemical residues that you and your family are exposed to daily. Over time, exposure to these toxins may lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, and even hormone disruption.[1]
Choosing a non-toxic dishwasher detergent isn’t just a matter of preference—it’s a crucial step toward reducing exposure to everyday toxins.
Toxic Options to Avoid
Cascade
A household name in dishwasher detergents, Cascade may deliver on cleaning power, but it comes with serious health and environmental drawbacks. Key concerns include:
- Benzotriazole is a petroleum-derived toxin that’s harmful to both health and ecosystems.[3]
- Synthetic fragrances are a common source of phthalates and allergens.[4]
- Colorants are unnecessary additives with no cleaning benefits.[5]
While Cascade is marketed for its effectiveness, the trade-offs make it a product to avoid.
A Step Up: Kirkland Ultra Shine
Kirkland Ultra Shine is a slightly better option than Cascade, thanks to its use of sodium-based cleaners and the absence of plastic-coated pods. However, it still falls short of being a non-toxic choice, especially if the formula includes synthetic fragrances. These fragrances can contribute to indoor air pollution and introduce unnecessary health risks.
The Best Option: Blueland Dishwasher Tablets
Blueland Dishwasher Tablets are the safest choice at Costco for those seeking a non-toxic option. These tablets are:
- Fragrance-free, avoiding the hidden dangers of synthetic scent chemicals.
- Plastic-free, with an all-powder formula that reduces waste and potential toxin exposure.
- Effective and safe, using sodium-based cleaning agents and enzymes to deliver a deep clean without harmful additives.
Not only are Blueland tablets safer, but they are also budget-friendly, with a lower price per tablet compared to Cascade.
The Benefits of Going Non-Toxic
Switching to non-toxic dishwasher detergents offers several key advantages:
- Healthier meals with no chemical residue left on your dishes.
- Improved air quality, as fragrance-free products eliminate airborne toxins.
- A safer home with fewer risks associated with everyday exposure to harmful chemicals.
Conclusion
Costco provides an array of dishwasher detergents, but only one stands out as a truly non-toxic option. While Cascade and Kirkland Ultra Shine are widely available, they don’t meet the standards for a toxin-free home. Blueland Dishwasher Tablets, on the other hand, offer a safe, effective, and affordable solution.
By choosing Blueland, you’re taking a simple yet impactful step toward a healthier home and a cleaner environment. Your health deserves nothing less.
References:
- Ogulur, Ismail, et al. “Gut Epithelial Barrier Damage Caused by Dishwasher Detergents and Rinse Aids.” The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, vol. 151, no. 2, Feb. 2023, pp. 469–84.
- Dodson, Robin E., et al. “Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma-Associated Chemicals in Consumer Products.” Environmental Health Perspectives, vol. 120, no. 7, July 2012, pp. 935–43.
- Pillard, D. A., et al. “Toxicity of Benzotriazole and Benzotriazole Derivatives to Three Aquatic Species.” Water Research, vol. 35, no. 2, Feb. 2001, pp. 557–60.
- Rádis-Baptista, Gandhi. “Do Synthetic Fragrances in Personal Care and Household Products Impact Indoor Air Quality and Pose Health Risks?” Journal of Xenobiotics, vol. 13, no. 1, Mar. 2023, pp. 121–31.
- Asif Ahmed, Mohammed, et al. “Dietary Intake of Artificial Food Color Additives Containing Food Products by School-Going Children.” Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, vol. 28, no. 1, Jan. 2021, pp. 27–34.