You may have seen social media posts alleging adverse health impacts from using dishwashers and dishwashing detergents. These misleading claims use shoddy science and are deliberate deceptions aimed at scaring consumers for commercial gain. They have no factual basis and create unnecessary fear. We’re here to set the record straight.
You may have heard:
MYTH: Your dishwasher and dishwasher detergent are not safe.
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Both dishwashers and the detergents used in them are formulated with a strong emphasis on safety and performance. Dishwasher detergent is made with ingredients that effectively break down food residues and leave dishes sparkling clean, all while adhering to stringent safety standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and individual company policies. Cutlery, glasses, dinnerware, and cookware cleaned in a dishwasher are safe to use. When paired with an effective dishwasher detergent that eliminates the need for pre-washing, dishwashers can significantly save both energy and water. |  |
MYTH: Alcohol ethoxylate, an ingredient used in dishwasher detergents, can harm your gut health.
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 | These ingredients have been safely used in both detergents and cosmetic products for many years. Their safety profile is well-studied and documented. In fact, alcohol ethoxylates are listed on the EPA’s Safer Choice “Safer Ingredients” list, confirming their safe use in household products. |
MYTH: There is a scientific study that indicates that alcohol ethoxylates in dishwasher detergents can harm your gut health.
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A study from 2023 titled "Gut epithelial barrier caused by dishwasher detergents and rinse aids" is often cited to support this false claim. However, despite what the title suggests, the study did not focus on household dishwasher detergents; moreover, the study actually concluded that no harmful effects from dishwasher detergents were observed, even at concentrations far above normal usage conditions. Scientific experts from the Center for Research on Ingredient Safety (CRIS) at Michigan State University reviewed this study and confirmed that “When used as directed, dish detergents and rinse aids are safe and effective.” |  |
MYTH: Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) used in dishwasher detergent packs contributes to microplastics.
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 | PVA is a water-soluble polymer used to make dishwasher detergent packs. The grade of PVA used for detergents is specially designed to dissolve completely rather than forming microplastics. For more information on the safe use of PVA used in detergent products, please visit www.CleaningInstitute.org/PVA |