The Real Difference Between Dish Detergent and Dish Soap

Keeping dishes clean is an important part of maintaining a healthy and organized kitchen. The products you use, whether for hand washing or dishwashing, can impact cleaning performance, water and energy usage, and even sustainability. Following these simple tips below for keeping your dishwashing routine effective and sustainable can make a big difference.

Is There a Difference Between Dish Soap and Dish Detergent?

The short answer: yes. The good news: choosing between dish soap and dish detergent is easy. It all comes down to what your dishes require, and whether you’re handwashing or using a dishwasher.

When to Use Dish Soap vs. Dish Detergent

The short answer: yes. The good news: choosing between dish soap and dish detergent is easy. It all comes down to what your dishes require. 

Use dish soap when:

• Washing delicate things like wine glasses or fine china.

• Cleaning non-stick pans or cast iron skillets.

• Soaking pots with food burned onto them.

• Washing big trays or other items that don't fit in your dishwasher.

• Freshening up one plate or mug quickly.

Use dishwasher detergent when:

• Running full loads of plates, bowls, and silverware

• Cleaning pots, pans, and baked-on residue efficiently

• Handling heavy cooking or large meal prep

• Wanting consistent results with minimal effort

• Saving water and energy compared with frequent handwashing

Eco-Friendly Options for Cleaner Dishes

You can make your dishwashing routine better for the environment with eco-friendly cleaning products.

• Look for USDA BioBased Certified products, meaning the product comes from sustainable resources. 

• Blueland’s Powdered Dish Soap and Dishwasher Detergent Tablets are concentrated, plastic-free formulas that minimize single-use plastic waste.

6 Tips for Getting the Best Results

1. Use the right amount. For handwashing, stick to the recommended amount of dish soap, as more isn’t necessary. For dishwashers, avoid using excess detergent, which can leave residue on your dishes.

2. Conserve water. Turn off the tap while scrubbing and only run your dishwasher with full loads to save both water and energy.

3. Choose the right cycle. Select eco or standard cycles depending on how dirty your dishes are for optimal cleaning with minimal energy use.

4. Store properly. Keep powders and tablets dry and sealed in a cool, shaded spot. Always close containers tightly to maintain potency and prevent spills.

5. Adopt sustainable habits. Scrape food off plates instead of rinsing first, consider natural rinse aids like vinegar, and choose products with a USDA BioBased label or refillable packaging.

6. Get the whole household involved. Consistent dishwashing habits make a big difference for hygiene, efficiency, and sustainability.

How Small Dishwashing Habits Add Up

By understanding the differences between dish soap and dishwasher detergent and following sustainable dishwashing habits, you can keep your kitchen sparkling while minimizing environmental impact. Using the right product for the right task, conserving water and energy, and choosing eco-friendly, refillable options—like Blueland’s Powdered Dish Soap and Dishwasher Detergent Tablets—makes your dishwashing routine both effective and planet-friendly. Small changes add up, helping you maintain a clean kitchen and a cleaner conscience.

Sources

1. Consumer Reports. You're Probably Using Way Too Much Detergent.

2. Michigan State University. Science vs. Sensation – Dishwasher Detergent Safety.