7 Plastic-Free Dish Soaps for Zero-Waste Kitchens

Switching to plastic-free dish soaps is a simple way to reduce waste and protect aquatic ecosystems. Traditional dish soaps contribute to plastic pollution and chemical runoff, harming marine life and the environment. Here’s a quick look at seven alternatives that offer effective cleaning without plastic waste:

• Meliora Dish Soap Puck: Solid soap puck, lasts months, $9.99–$10.99.
• Sonett Ecological Dishwashing Liquid: Liquid soap, gentle on hands, $11.99–$14.99.
• etee Beeswax Pod System: Compostable pods, refillable, $15–$19.
• Butter Me Up Organics Solid Block: Coconut oil-based, plastic-free, $13.
• Simple Alchemy Dual-Layer Bar: Dual-layer design, works in hard water, $14.
• No Tox Life Dish Block®: Long-lasting solid bar, $9.98.
• Seek Bamboo Rice Protein Formula: Rice-based soap bar, $10.

Quick Comparison Table:

These options combine eco-conscious packaging and effective cleaning power, making them great for a zero-waste kitchen. Small changes like this can significantly reduce plastic waste and chemical pollution.

Zero Waste Dish Soap Review | No Tox Life Vegan Dish Block

1. Meliora Dish Soap Puck

The Meliora Dish Soap Puck is a solid, concentrated alternative to traditional liquid dish soaps, designed to eliminate plastic waste from your kitchen. Unlike typical liquid soaps that are mostly water (around 60%), this puck contains just 5% water, making it highly concentrated and long-lasting.

This dish soap is MADE SAFE® Certified and comes in both unscented and lemon-scented options, with all ingredients clearly listed on the front. It’s also Leaping Bunny certified, meeting cruelty-free and vegan standards.

While the soap lathers well and rinses clean, its performance can vary depending on your water quality. Some users have noted that the suds may not last as long as liquid soap, covering about two dishes at a time, with occasional dripping. However, the concentrated formula ensures that each puck lasts for months, making it a sustainable and effective choice.

Recent reviews have praised the product’s quality. In May 2025, Sammy Lynn from Minneapolis shared that it performed better than bottled dish soaps, while Etty Shimon from Glendale highlighted its unscented, plastic-free design.

The packaging is just as eco-friendly as the product itself. You can choose between a package-free option (wrapped in kraft paper to prevent sticking) or a recyclable, compostable paperboard box printed with vegetable-based inks.

"Our Dish Soap is a people- and planet-friendly dish soap made with safer ingredients and eco-friendly packaging." – Meliora Cleaning Products

Priced between $9.99 and $10.99, the soap has earned a 4.7-star rating from 156 reviews and supports environmental nonprofits by donating at least 1% of sales.

To use, simply rub a sponge or dishcloth directly onto the puck to create suds, then wash your dishes as usual. While it may take a little getting used to compared to liquid soap, many users find it easy to adapt to this more sustainable cleaning method.

Next, let’s dive into another creative way to ditch plastic in your dishwashing routine.

2. Sonett Ecological Dishwashing Liquid

Sonett Ecological Dishwashing Liquid brings a thoughtful, eco-conscious touch to your kitchen while maintaining the convenience of a liquid detergent. It blends the usability of traditional dish soap with ingredients and packaging designed for a greener planet.

The formula features sugar surfactants, coconut oil alcohol sulfate, and vegetable alcohol (ethanol), which effectively cut through grease while being gentle on your skin and kind to the environment.

One standout feature is its concentrated formula. You only need 3 ml per 5 liters of water for dishwashing – just apply it directly to your sponge. For general multi-surface cleaning, dilute 5–10 ml per 10 liters (about 2.6 gallons) of water.

This dish soap maintains a neutral pH of 7–8 and contains 100% biodegradable surfactants, making it safe for septic systems. It also boasts certifications from Ecogarantie, CSE, and the Vegan Society, underscoring its eco-friendly credentials.

Users appreciate its unscented, gentle formula, which is effective at cleaning while soothing dry hands. It has earned a solid 4.5-star rating from customers. For tougher cleaning jobs, a bit more product may be required. Additionally, Sonett includes a softener to bind limescale in hard water, ensuring optimal performance in all conditions.

Sonett’s commitment to sustainability extends to its packaging. The company uses PE and PP containers and operates a take-back program for larger 10-liter and 20-liter containers. Retailers collect these empties for cleaning and refilling, reducing waste. Smaller, nonrefillable containers are shredded and recycled into new bottles, capitalizing on polyethylene’s recyclability.

A 17 fl.oz bottle is priced at $11.99, while a 34 fl.oz bottle costs around $14.99. Thanks to its concentrated formula, it lasts much longer than conventional dish soaps, making it a cost-effective choice.

For households navigating varying water hardness or making the switch from standard dish soaps, Sonett provides a familiar liquid format that aligns beautifully with eco-conscious values. It’s a great step toward creating a zero-waste kitchen. Up next, let’s dive into another smart solution for a plastic-free dishwashing routine.

3. etee Beeswax Pod System

The etee Beeswax Pod System takes a fresh approach to cleaning by combining concentrated liquid soap with compostable packaging, making it a smart choice for zero-waste kitchens. The etee Liquid Dish Soap Concentrate uses a plant-based formula that includes alcohol ethoxylate, polyglucoside, amine oxide, and hydroxyethylcellulose, ensuring effective cleaning power while keeping things eco-friendly.

What makes etee stand out is its BeePods – innovative packaging made from unprocessed waxes, oils, tree resins, and soy-based inks. These pods are fully compostable at home. Since launching in 2017, etee estimates its plastic-free products have prevented over 100 million single-use plastic items from ending up in landfills.

This system has earned accolades from experts, with TheRoundup.org naming the etee Liquid Dish Soap Concentrate the "Best Eco-Friendly Dish Soap – OVERALL WINNER". Customers also praise its versatility and effectiveness for various cleaning tasks. However, there are some practical hurdles to consider.

The beeswax packaging, while innovative, isn’t without its challenges. America’s Test Kitchen highlighted that the pods can sometimes rupture during shipping or handling, leading to spills. Some users have also reported receiving damaged pods, which can result in wasted product.

To get the best results, etee recommends mixing the concentrate with potable water. For those in hard water areas, adding a rinse aid like vinegar can enhance its performance.

Refill pods are available in packs of 3, 6, or 9, with prices ranging from $15 to $19. Subscription plans are also available for additional savings.

One satisfied customer, Jennifer Schollmeyer, shared her experience: "Love this product! Easy to use and very little waste".

The etee Beeswax Pod System represents a thoughtful step toward reducing plastic waste in the kitchen. While it may take some getting used to compared to traditional dish soaps, it’s a creative solution that aligns well with zero-waste principles. Up next, we’ll dive into another option for a more sustainable kitchen.

4. Butter Me Up Organics Solid Block

Butter Me Up Organics brings simplicity and sustainability to dishwashing with its solid block dish soap. Made with just two organic ingredients – Organic Saponified Coconut Oil and Organic Castor Oil – this soap is free from sulfates, phthalates, parabens, synthetic dyes, and fragrances. It’s also non-GMO, cruelty-free, and completely non-toxic, making it a safe and eco-conscious choice for your kitchen cleaning routine.

This soap doesn’t just tick the sustainability box; it performs well, too. It effectively cuts through grease in various water conditions and can be used in two ways: rub it directly onto dishes or melt it into a liquid form. Plus, it avoids the use of plastic, palm oil, or animal products, aligning perfectly with a zero-waste lifestyle.

Customers seem to love it, rating it 4.57 out of 5 based on seven reviews. One reviewer noted that all Butter Me Up Organics soaps are "mild enough for daily use", while another highlighted its qualities as "long-lasting, effective, eco-friendly, and inexpensive."

The packaging is just as thoughtful as the product itself. It’s shipped plastic-free, featuring recycled paper labels and upcycled mailing materials, staying true to the company’s zero-waste philosophy since 2008. As the company proudly states:

"We are a cruelty free and zero waste company and have been since our inception in 2008."

At $13, this solid block soap offers a great balance of affordability and sustainability. According to Sustainable Jungle, Butter Me Up Organics meets all the important standards for an eco-friendly product.

With its minimal ingredients and efficient cleaning capabilities, this solid block is a fantastic option for anyone striving for a plastic-free, zero-waste kitchen.

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5. Simple Alchemy Dual-Layer Bar

Simple Alchemy’s Dual-Layer Bar is a clever addition to the growing zero-waste kitchen movement. This bar combines a two-layer design for a more effective cleaning experience, all while being packaged in materials that are completely compostable.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

The packaging is made from materials that can be composted at home, breaking down naturally without leaving behind waste. This aligns perfectly with the idea of a circular economy, where products and materials are reused or returned to the earth. It’s not just the packaging that’s eco-conscious – the bar itself is designed to perform well in different water conditions.

How It Handles Hard Water

Hard water, which contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium ions, often interferes with soap’s ability to create a good lather. Simple Alchemy’s Dual-Layer Bar is crafted to maintain its cleaning power even in these challenging conditions, ensuring a consistent and effective clean.

6. No Tox Life Dish Block®

The No Tox Life Dish Block® is a concentrated dishwashing bar that’s tough on grease but gentle on the planet. At $9.98 for a 6 oz bar, it’s a plastic-free alternative for effective cleaning.

Transparent Ingredients

No Tox Life stands out by listing every single ingredient in its formula, unlike many conventional dish soaps that hide behind terms like "surfactants." The bar includes sodium ester salts, plant-derived cocoyl, and alkyl polyglucosides for cleaning power. It also contains vegetable glycerol and organic aloe vera leaf to protect your hands, organic Quillaja saponaria as a natural cleaning agent, and sodium citrate to balance the pH. Importantly, the Dish Block® is free from dyes, fragrances, phosphates, sulfates, parabens, gluten, and palm oil. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

The brand takes its commitment to sustainability seriously, wrapping the Dish Block® in biodegradable Kraft paper envelopes. By avoiding plastic altogether, they align with zero-waste principles, ensuring the packaging decomposes naturally.

Works in All Water Types

The updated formula is designed to create rich suds and cut through grease effectively, regardless of water conditions. This makes it a reliable choice for households with hard or soft water.

"In an undated review, a customer named Tyler S. from Duluth, US, stated that the No Tox Life soap blocks last about 6 months. Tyler also mentioned that his mother said it works better on grease than anything else she has ever used and that it suds better than any soap she has used".

The Dish Block® has earned a 4.61 out of 5 stars rating from 905 reviews, with users frequently praising its sudsy texture and grease-cutting performance. Its durability adds to its appeal – when stored properly (dry and out of direct sunlight), it boasts a shelf life of over 5 years. Up next, we’ll dive into another solution for a plastic-free dishwashing routine.

7. Seek Bamboo Rice Protein Formula

Seek Bamboo Rice Protein Formula is a dish soap bar that combines rice protein with eco-conscious principles to deliver a plastic-free, effective clean. Each bar is priced at $10.00 and is designed to tackle grease naturally while aligning with zero-waste ideals.

Rice-Based Cleaning Power

At the heart of this formula is rice protein, which provides a gentle yet effective cleaning experience. The soap blends rice powder with natural seed extracts and plant oils, creating a non-toxic solution for everyday dishwashing. Key ingredients like coconut oil, soybean oil, and lauric acid work together to cut through grease effortlessly. Meanwhile, chamomilla matricaria oil and basil oil add a light, natural fragrance without relying on synthetic chemicals.

"Our rice-based formula offers a soothing, non-toxic cleanse, keeping your hands soft & your kitchen routine worry-free." – Seek Bamboo

The formula is completely free of sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. Instead of harsh chemicals, it uses natural thickeners like corn starch and sucrose to maintain its consistency.

Plastic-Free Packaging for a Sustainable Future

Seek Bamboo addresses the growing problem of plastic waste – over 900 million dish soap bottles are discarded annually. Their solution? Completely plastic-free packaging. To date, the brand has prevented 15 tons of plastic from entering landfills through their sustainable practices.

Reliable in Different Water Conditions

This dish soap works well in various water types, although you may need to use a bit more product for tackling heavy grease.

User Feedback and Product Longevity

With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 166 reviews, 96% of users recommend this soap for its effective cleaning and eco-friendly design.

"The perfect cleaning dish bar! This is the best product for those who want to cut down on waste without sacrificing cleaning power." – Jamie J.

To extend the soap bar’s life, it’s best to store it on a well-draining soap dish between uses. Seek Bamboo offers a bamboo soap dish for $8.00 and a soap saver bag for $5.00, both designed to keep the bar dry and maximize its lifespan.

This rice protein-based soap bar is a standout option for sustainable dishwashing. It blends cleaning efficiency with eco-conscious values, making it a strong addition to any zero-waste kitchen lineup.

Product Comparison Chart

Looking for the best plastic-free dish soap to complement your zero-waste kitchen? Here’s a handy comparison of seven top contenders, covering price, cleaning power, certifications, and who they’re best suited for. This quick guide will help you find the perfect match for your cleaning needs.

Prices range from $6.99 to $24.95, with most products priced between $8 and $12. The etee Beeswax Pod System is the priciest, thanks to its refillable, waste-free design, while Butter Me Up Organics stands out as the most affordable option.

When it comes to cleaning power, Meliora and No Tox Life shine with their grease-cutting abilities, while Sonett is great for tackling stubborn stains while being gentle on hands. For those with sensitive skin, the Simple Alchemy Dual-Layer Bar is a solid choice.

Concentrated formulas make these products cost-effective, as a small amount can clean an entire sink of dishes. Keep in mind that storage needs differ: liquid soaps fit standard dispensers, while bars work best with well-draining dishes to avoid mess.

Final Thoughts

Switching to plastic-free dish soaps is a meaningful step toward creating a zero-waste kitchen. The seven alternatives we’ve explored prove you don’t have to compromise cleaning power to make eco-friendly choices. In fact, many of these options perform just as well – if not better – than traditional dish soaps, all while cutting down on plastic waste and steering clear of harsh chemicals.

With only 9% of plastic waste in the U.S. being recycled each year, choosing plastic-free products addresses a pressing waste issue that extends far beyond the kitchen. Imagine if every household in America swapped just one plastic bottle of dish soap for a solid bar – millions of plastic containers could be eliminated from production annually.

"Switching to a zero waste dish soap is a safer alternative than detergent dish soap bottled in plastic. It’s better for the planet and gets your dishes clean without any harsh chemicals or extra waste." – Zero Waste Store

This sentiment highlights how a simple change can align everyday cleaning with sustainability goals.

Plastic-free dish soaps also deliver long-lasting value. For instance, a customer shared their experience with the No Tox Life Dish Soap Bar:
"I love this dish soap! It’s so easy to use and I have already had it for like 3 months and barely affected it!" – Aby, Verified Buyer

Beyond their environmental benefits, these products help protect your family by avoiding harsh chemicals and can handle a variety of cleaning tasks.

As consumer demand for sustainable solutions grows, every purchase sends a message to industries, pushing them toward more eco-conscious practices. By embracing plastic-free dish soaps, you can enjoy effective cleaning while contributing to a healthier planet.

FAQs

What are the advantages of using plastic-free dish soaps instead of traditional liquid dish soaps?

Switching to plastic-free dish soaps offers a range of benefits that go beyond just cleaning your dishes. These alternatives are crafted with biodegradable ingredients, which are much kinder to aquatic ecosystems. Unlike conventional soaps that often include harsh chemicals like phosphates and sulfates, plastic-free options help minimize water pollution and safeguard marine life.

Another major advantage is their packaging – or lack of it. Plastic-free dish soaps, such as solid bars, eliminate single-use plastic entirely. This means less plastic waste piling up and a smaller carbon footprint from production and shipping. Plus, many of these soaps skip synthetic additives, making them a safer choice for families, especially those with young children or sensitive skin.

By making the switch, you’re not just cleaning dishes – you’re taking a small but meaningful step toward a cleaner planet and a healthier home.

How well do plastic-free dish soaps, like solid bars and pods, work in hard and soft water?

Plastic-free dish soaps, like solid bars and pods, interact differently with water depending on whether it’s soft or hard. In soft water, these soaps tend to work more efficiently, producing a rich lather with less product. This is because soft water contains fewer minerals, which means there’s less interference with the soap’s cleaning power.

In hard water, however, the story changes. The higher mineral content can make it tougher to create lather, which might mean using a bit more soap and putting in extra effort to get the same cleaning results. That said, solid bar soaps are still great at tackling grease, even in hard water, though they might require a little extra scrubbing compared to their performance in soft water.

To get the most out of your plastic-free dish soap, consider tweaking the amount you use based on the type of water in your area.

How can I store and use solid dish soap bars to make them last longer?

To make your solid dish soap bar last longer, keep it in a dry and well-ventilated spot to avoid it softening or dissolving too fast. Opt for a soap dish with good drainage so the bar doesn’t sit in water. After using it, let the soap dry fully before putting it away. Following these easy tips can help you maximize your eco-friendly dish soap bar while maintaining a low-waste kitchen.

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