For quite some time I have been wanting to make Dish wash powder myself but I have never been able to get the results I wanted i.e clean glasses, plates etc. Everything has come out cloudy. So frustrating!
Most dishwasher powders and detergents have artificial fragrances in them which is a big red flag for phthalates- endocrine disruptors. You will notice this when you open the door at the end of the cycle and are greeted with a strong artificial smell, not something I wanted my dishes coated with.
Some powders include Chlorine based bleaches which are not great for your digestive tract, and also kill off organisms in the environment which is why chlorine bleach is used in swimming pools.
Colours in your dishwasher powders are simply artificial, more than likely derived from petroleum with small amounts always left on your dishes. No thank you.
Finally I have come up with a mix that I am happy with
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sodium Bi-carbonate
- 1 cup Citric Acid
- 1 cup Oxygen Bleach- Sodium Per carbonate
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1 cup washing soda- Lectric brand from the supermarket.
- 20 drops Purification or Lemon Essential Oil
Mix all ingredients in a stainless steel bowl and store in either a glass jar or repurposed container.
Use 1-2 tablespoons per wash.
For best results
- don’t overload your dishwasher
- rinse dishes of large particles of food before hand
- use hot water
Results will vary depending on the hardness of your water. Hot water works better as there are no harsh chemicals used to clean your dishes.
For bulk supplies of salts I like to shop at Blants. Bulk goods come in handy for cleaning, bath bombs, bath salts, scrubs. otherwise try your local health food shop or hardware store.
If making your own is not your thing, because it is not everyone’s I love the Ecostore powder. The best low tox option that I have found from the supermarket.
Belinda Forsyth 