A Simple Guide to Cruelty-Free Dishwasher Detergents
If you’re trying to switch to a cruelty-free lifestyle, your cleaning products matter just as much as your skincare. That includes what you’re using in your dishwasher. Many popular dishwasher detergents are still tested on animals or made by companies that don’t prioritize ethical practices, which can be frustrating when you’re just trying to do the right thing.
This list of cruelty-free dishwasher detergents is for anyone who wants a cleaner kitchen without compromising their values. Whether you’re focused on reducing animal suffering, avoiding harsh ingredients, or just want to support better brands, there’s something here that fits. I’ve gathered options that are easy to find, safe for sensitive skin, and actually work—because no one wants to rewash a “clean” dish.
You’ll find quick descriptions of each brand, who it’s good for, and what makes it worth trying. This roundup is especially helpful if you’re new to cruelty-free living or just want to check your current detergent against more ethical options.
In a hurry? Here are our top picks!
If you don’t have time to scroll, these are four cruelty-free dishwasher detergents that get the job done without animal testing or questionable ingredients.
- ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods – Plant- and mineral-based with powerful cleaning results.
- Cleancult Ultra Power Dishwasher Detergent Pods – Zero-waste packaging and strong performance.
- Puracy Dishwasher Pods – Gentle on skin, tough on grease, made by a trusted ethical brand.
- Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods – Ideal for sensitive households with a focus on safety and transparency.
Cruelty-Free Dishwasher Soap
Here are cruelty-free dishwasher soap options to consider if you’re ready to swap out your current detergent for something more ethical. All of the brands are certified cruelty-free by either Leaping Bunny or PETA.
Note: Brands marked with an asterisk (*) are owned by a parent company that is not cruelty-free.*
Aspenclean Dishwasher Pods
Based & Made in: Canada
If you’re looking for a dishwasher pod that actually works and skips the plastic, AspenClean is a solid pick. These unscented pods are made with plant-based ingredients and packaged in a fully compostable container—no plastic in sight. They break down grease and stuck-on food without any film or weird after-smell, which makes them a reliable swap for conventional detergents.
Unlike a lot of mainstream options, these pods are free from synthetic fragrance and harsh chemicals. They’re certified by EcoCert and also carry an A-rating from the Environmental Working Group, so they meet high standards for both safety and environmental responsibility. Plus, they’re vegan and cruelty-free, making them a good choice if you’re trying to shop more ethically.
AspenClean is especially great for anyone with sensitivities or kids in the house. The formula skips common irritants but still gets your dishes clean. And if you’re tired of products that say they’re green but still come in plastic? This brand actually walks the talk.
Want to ditch the plastic and switch to a safer clean? Try AspenClean Dishwasher Pods.
ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods
Based & Made in: Canada
If you want something that’s plant-based and performs like a champ, ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods are a great place to start. These fragrance-free pods tackle greasy messes and dried-on food without leaving streaks—and they do it without the usual harsh ingredients. The formula is biodegradable, free from chlorine and phosphates, and safe for everyday use.
The pods are sealed in a hydrosoluble film that dissolves completely during the wash cycle, so you don’t have to worry about unwrapping them or getting detergent on your hands. They’re compatible with pretty much any dishwasher, whether you’re running a load at home or using them in a small business setting.
ATTITUDE’s packaging is made from recyclable, FSC-certified cardboard, and the brand is certified cruelty-free. If you’re looking to cut back on plastic and skip synthetic chemicals, but still expect your detergent to actually work, this one checks all the boxes.
Ready for cleaner dishes and a cleaner conscience? Give ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods a try.
Citra Solv Homesolv Auto Dishwasher Pacs
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re looking for something simple, safe, and scent-free, Citra Solv HomeSolv Auto Dishwasher Pacs are a solid everyday choice. These pods are free from dyes and fragrances, so they’re a good fit for anyone with sensitivities or who just wants to avoid unnecessary ingredients. They’re also biodegradable and safe for septic systems, which is a plus if you’re living more off-grid or in a rural area.
Even though they’re gentle, they still cut through grease and stuck-on food. The formula is designed to rinse clean without leaving any residue behind. Each pod is pre-measured, so there’s no guesswork and no waste.
This is a great option for households that want to keep things low-tox and low-impact, especially if you’re already avoiding synthetic scents or have skin that reacts to harsh cleaners.
If you’re after a no-fuss, fragrance-free clean, give Citra Solv HomeSolv Auto Dishwasher Pacs a try.
Cleancult Ultra Power Dishwasher Detergent Pods
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re trying to move away from plastic-heavy cleaners and still want your dishes to come out spotless, Cleancult Ultra Power Dishwasher Pods are a smart switch. Each pod is pre-measured and wrapped in a water-soluble film that dissolves completely—no ripping, cutting, or sticky mess involved. Just toss it in and let your dishwasher handle the rest.
What sets this one apart is its light lemon verbena scent. It’s subtle, not overpowering or artificial, and gives your dishes a clean, fresh feel without lingering perfume. The formula works well on stuck-on food and doesn’t leave behind that filmy residue some natural brands struggle with.
The pods come in 100% recyclable paper packaging, which makes them an easy win if you’re trying to cut down on plastic in your home. They’re also free from harsh chemicals and safe to use around kids and pets.
If you want powerful results without the plastic waste, try Cleancult Ultra Power Dishwasher Pods and see the difference.
Dropps UltraWash Dishwasher Pods
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re tired of doing extra work before or after the dishwasher runs, Dropps UltraWash Dishwasher Pods might just simplify your routine. These unscented pods are powered by enzymes and oxygen-based cleaners that break down grease and stuck-on food—no pre-wash or rinse aid needed. Just load the machine and let it do its thing.
The formula is 81% USDA Biobased, which means it’s mostly made from renewable ingredients, but still delivers the kind of cleaning you’d expect from a conventional detergent. And thanks to the mineral-based water softeners, your glasses come out spotless without that chalky film or water spots.
Dropps skips the usual list of harsh ingredients—no dyes, chlorine, phosphates, or parabens—and the pods are vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny approved. The packaging is simple and plastic-free, and the brand itself is a certified B Corp with a 30-year history of doing things differently.
If you’re ready to upgrade your dishwashing routine with less hassle and fewer chemicals, give Dropps UltraWash Dishwasher Pods a try.
Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Soap Tablets*
Based & Made in: Belgium
If you want a dishwasher tablet that gets the job done and still leans greener, Ecover Automatic Dishwasher Soap Tablets are worth checking out. These plant-based tablets power through stuck-on food and leave your dishes genuinely clean—without that chemical smell or film.
They use a naturally derived fragrance that’s light and not overwhelming, which can be nice if you’re sensitive to strong scents. The formula itself is biodegradable and free from toxic ingredients, so it’s better for both your home and the environment.
The tablets come in a cardboard box made from recycled materials, keeping the plastic to a minimum. Ecover is also vegan and doesn’t test on animals, though it’s worth knowing the brand is owned by SC Johnson, a company that isn’t certified cruelty-free.
Still, if you’re looking for a low-tox clean with less impact on waterways, Ecover Dishwasher Tablets are a solid option—especially if you’re just beginning to switch to more conscious household staples.
Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Pods
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re sensitive to scent or just want a simpler formula that still works, Grab Green Automatic Dishwashing Pods are a solid no-nonsense option. These fragrance-free pods are hypoallergenic and made with plant- and mineral-based ingredients that actually do the job—cutting through grease and stuck-on mess without that harsh chemical smell.
Each pod is pre-measured, so there’s no pouring or cleanup, and the resealable velcro pouch is easy to use (and way less annoying than those plastic zip closures). The formula is septic-safe and skips the usual culprits like phosphates, chlorine, dyes, and artificial masking agents.
This one’s ideal if you’ve got sensitive skin, a low-tox household, or just want something that’s straightforward, effective, and cruelty-free. It gets your dishes clean without the extra junk.
Looking for a clean rinse without the fragrance? Give Grab Green Dishwasher Pods a shot.
Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re dealing with hard water, food stains, or just want something safer for your household, Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods are a smart swap. These pods were created by a pediatric nurse and mom who wanted something better for families, so they’re free from harsh synthetic ingredients but still strong enough to handle greasy dishes and dried-on messes.
They clean without leaving behind any streaks or residue, and the formula skips synthetic fragrance, dyes, and common irritants like ethoxylates. Whether you’re washing baby bottles, wine glasses, or your go-to pans, it gets the job done without a bunch of extra chemicals.
Molly’s Suds is Leaping Bunny certified and built with families in mind, especially those with sensitivities or allergies. It’s a low-sudsing, enzyme-based formula that works in most dishwashers and doesn’t need a rinse aid to get results.
Want a gentler clean that still works? Try Molly’s Suds Dishwasher Pods and keep things simple—and sparkly.
Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder
Based & Made in: Canada
If you prefer powder over pods and want more control over what goes into your dishwasher, Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder is a great fit. This scoopable powder cuts through grease and dried-on food just as well as the big-name brands, but without all the harsh ingredients. It’s a low-tox formula that keeps your dishes clean without compromising your health—or the environment.
The biodegradable, phosphate-free formula is safe for septic systems and gentle on waterways, making it a solid choice for eco-conscious households. It comes in a reusable tin with a measuring scoop inside, so you can adjust the amount depending on your load size. Simple, efficient, and no plastic waste.
If you’re trying to stay away from single-use pods and want a powder that actually works, this one is dependable and straightforward. Plus, no artificial fragrances or questionable additives.
Want a cleaner dish and a cleaner routine? Try Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder and scoop your way to a more sustainable clean.
Planet Automatic Free & Clear Dishwasher Pacs
Based & Made in: USA
If your skin is sensitive or you’re just trying to simplify your home routine, Planet Free & Clear Dishwasher Pacs are a good match. These pods are made without dyes, fragrances, or preservatives, which makes them a safe option for anyone who reacts to conventional cleaners.
They use enzymes to break down grease and food residue effectively, so you still get that clean, streak-free result, just without all the extra chemicals. The formula is plant- and mineral-based, so it’s gentler on both your home and the environment.
Planet is Leaping Bunny certified and sticks to a less-is-more approach when it comes to ingredients. It’s a great choice if you want a dishwasher detergent that does its job without adding anything unnecessary.
Need a straightforward, fragrance-free pod that’s kind to your skin and the planet? Try Planet Free & Clear Dishwasher Pacs and keep dish duty clean and simple.
Puracy Dishwasher Pods
Based & Made in: USA
If you want clean dishes without the hassle of a pre-rinse or a long list of unpronounceable ingredients, Puracy Dishwasher Pods make things simple. These pods use plant-based enzymes to tackle all the usual suspects—grease, baked-on food, dairy, even last night’s pasta—without leaving any residue behind.
They’re biodegradable and free from bleach, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, or animal by-products. That makes them a good fit for households with kids, pets, or anyone with sensitivities. Plus, they’re vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about what you’re using every day.
You don’t need to scrub or pre-wash—just scrape, load, and let the pods handle it. Whether you’re cleaning baby bottles, pots and pans, or just the usual mountain of dishes, they get it done without the drama.
Ready to make dish duty less annoying? Try Puracy Dishwasher Pods and see why so many people swear by them.
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Packs*
Based & Made in: USA
If you’re looking for a dishwasher detergent that works well and skips the usual chemical load, Seventh Generation Dishwasher Packs are a reliable option. These pods are designed to cut through grease and food without the need for chlorine bleach or synthetic fragrance, so they’re a good fit for families with sensitive skin or allergies.
The formula is 79% USDA Certified Biobased, which means it leans heavily on plant- and mineral-based ingredients to do the work. Each pack is pre-measured, so you just toss it into the machine—no scooping or spills.
Packaging is 90% plastic-free, which is a nice step in the right direction for anyone trying to cut down on waste. The formula itself is cruelty-free, though it’s important to note the brand is owned by Unilever, which doesn’t meet cruelty-free standards across all its operations.
Still, if you want a low-tox, no-fuss detergent that’s easy to find and kinder to your home, Seventh Generation Dishwasher Packs are worth a look.
Dishwasher Detergent Brands to Avoid
Trying to clean your dishes shouldn’t come at the expense of your health or animal welfare. Some popular dishwasher detergents still test on animals or use ingredients that can irritate your skin, harm the environment, or raise long-term health concerns.
If you’re switching to a more conscious routine, here are a few dishwasher detergent brands you might want to avoid:
- Cascade (P&G)
- Finish (Reckitt Benckiser)
- Sunlight (Henkel)
- Palmolive Eco+ (Colgate-Palmolive)
These brands are easy to find but often rely on animal testing or harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for something cleaner and more ethical, the cruelty-free options listed above are a safer bet for your home and the planet.
Final Thoughts on Cruelty-Free Dishwasher Tablets
Making the switch to cruelty-free dishwasher detergent is one of those small changes that can actually make a big impact. It’s an easy swap that supports better brands, avoids unnecessary chemicals, and helps cut back on plastic—all without sacrificing clean dishes.
Whether you go for pods, powder, or gel, there are plenty of options that do the job well and align with your values. If you’re building a lower-tox home or just trying to be more intentional with your choices, this is a good place to start. Your dishes will still shine, and you’ll feel better about what you’re using every day.
Have you tried any of the cruelty-free dishwasher detergents before? Feel free to leave your thoughts in our comment section below!
