Eco Washing Up Liquid
Which washing-up liquid brands are the most ethical and sustainable? For the answer, see our Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table to compare brands’ ethical scores.
Why is it important to buy eco washing up liquid?
Unless you are one of the lucky ones and have a dishwasher at home, you’re likely to be using a lot of washing up liquid. In 2020, an estimated 4.15 million people in Britain used washing up liquid at least four times a day. So we are certainly getting through the stuff! But did you know that choosing an unethical or unsustainable washing up liquid can come with a big environmental cost? From toxic chemicals to animal-derived ingredients, this article explores the ethical issues behind washing up liquids and the brands that produce them. In this article, you will also find out how to buy the best eco washing up liquid out there.
Are there toxic chemicals in washing up liquid?
One of the main environmental issues with washing up liquid is toxic chemicals. Some washing up liquids contain toxic chemicals, such as triclosan, formaldehyde and phthalates. Many washing up liquid formulas also contain petrochemical surface-active agents or surfactants. Petrochemical agents are often derived from crude-oil, a finite resource. Whilst petrochemical agents and other petroleum derivatives are not necessarily toxic for humans, there are concerns about our over-dependence on this finite resource. Petroleum-derived chemicals can also be found in the plastic packaging of washing up liquid. Buy from refill shops or from brands who use recycled packaging to cut down on plastic waste.
Though most cleaning brands should have policies in place against the use of triclosan, formaldehyde and phthalates, you should always check our Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table to make sure. Some brands do not have Toxic Chemical Policies. Toxic chemicals such as triclosan, formaldehyde, phthalates can cause skin irritation, rashes and can even damage our organs.
Not only can toxic chemicals harm our bodies directly, we should also consider where washing up liquid ultimately ends up. Any guesses? Yep. You got it. Domestic waste water is known as greywater, and this eventually runs down the drain, making its way into our sewage systems and waterways. This could pollute the marine environment or aquatic ecosystems.
Our research findings: The use of toxic chemicals
The Good Shopping Guide’s latest research into the washing up liquid sector has revealed the unethical practices that several leading brands are involved in. This research will help you to be aware of which brands to avoid in your search for eco washing up liquid.
Firstly, some brands are still using toxic chemicals within their products, despite the known environmental risks. Our Toxic Chemicals Policy criterion marks companies down for the use of toxic chemicals, including formaldehyde, triclosan, parabens, and phthalates.
Unfortunately, only 50% of brands received a top ethical rating for their Toxic Chemicals Policy, whilst the rest are either using toxic chemicals or are not being transparent about what ingredients are present in their products. Some examples of brands that received the worst rating for their use of toxic chemicals include Fairy, Seventh Generation and Morning Fresh. If you want to buy eco washing up liquid, you should avoid products by these brands.
Additionally, you may want to stay away from brands that are owned by large conglomerates, as these companies are typically involved in many unethical practices, from child labour to animal testing, to poor environmental practices.
For instance, Fairy is a subsidiary of The Procter & Gamble Company, which has been criticised for its entrenched unethical activities, including the use of toxic chemicals. Similarly, Seventh Generation is owned by Unilever, another unethical conglomerate involved in controversial issues, such as animal testing and human rights abuses. Why not instead give your money to smaller, more sustainable, brands that sell eco washing up liquid? By going to local markets or refill shops, you can often stumble across independent washing up liquid brands.
Is washing up liquid cruelty-free and vegan?
Animal Welfare is another critical problem within the washing up liquid sector. Many brands continue to test their products on animals, despite humane alternatives being readily available. PETA UK estimates that over 2 million procedures on animals occurred in British laboratories in 2020 alone. Look out for cruelty-free washing up liquid brands in our brand rankings.
Additionally, lots of supposedly eco washing up liquid products are made with animal-derived ingredients. This makes them unsuitable for vegans. Even brands such as Method and Ecover are not vegan. As there are many vegan washing up liquid products on the market, there is no need to purchase washing up liquid containing animal products. If you want to buy vegan washing up liquid, look for products that are certified as vegan by either The Vegetarian Society, The Vegan Society, or V-Label.
Buying eco washing up liquid can seem like a minefield. Greenwashing is everywhere! However, our Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table shows you the best sustainable brands to choose from, so you can avoid issues such as animal testing and toxic chemicals for your next purchase. You can find the most ethical brands in the green section of the table, which offer a range of sustainable products such as vegan washing up liquid, eco washing up liquid, and washing up liquid free of toxic chemicals.
Our advice: The best brands for eco washing up liquid and vegan washing up liquid
Although there are many unethical washing up liquid brands, there is no need to panic. There are also plenty of eco-friendly and sustainable brands to choose from, with most of them offering options for eco washing up liquid, vegan washing up liquid, and non-toxic washing up liquid.
If you want to buy an eco washing up liquid from a sustainable brand, our accredited brands Colt & Willow, GBPro and Greenscents are a great place to start. To discover more about them, take a look at their brand pages linked at the bottom of this article.
There are also other options for vegan washing up liquid within our ethical comparison ratings table. To find vegan washing up liquid, simply look for brands that have received a top ethical rating under our Vegetarian/Vegan category and find their vegan products online. You can also find vegan washing up liquid that is free from toxic chemicals, so you do not need to choose between the two!
Finally, have you considered purchasing a dishwasher? This is not an affordable option for everyone, or for those who live in rented properties. However, as Which? states, dishwashers are 4 times more water-efficient than doing the dishes by hand, so this may be something to consider if you are financially able. (And who likes doing the dishes anyway!)
See our Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table to compare brands
The research team at The Good Shopping Guide have created individual brand write-ups for every single company represented on our Ethical Ratings Tables. Click on any brand name listed below to read more about ethics and sustainability policies, and how brands are considering the Environment, Animals and People in their business practice.
Bio D, ECOS, Ecozone, Greenscents, Colt & Willow, Eco-Max, Faith in Nature, Wilton London, Homethings, LoofCo, Ecoleaf (Suma), OceanSaver, Surcare, Morning Fresh, Ecover, Method, Mrs Meyers, Fairy and Seventh Generation.
Why does it matter which washing up liquid I choose?
With millions of households using washing up liquid multiple times daily, the collective environmental impact of our choices is substantial. Many conventional washing up liquids contain toxic chemicals that can irritate skin and pollute waterways, while some are owned by large conglomerates with poor ethical records. Choosing an eco washing up liquid from a responsible brand is a simple yet meaningful everyday decision.
What toxic chemicals should I watch out for in washing up liquid?
Some washing up liquids contain harmful substances such as triclosan, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which can cause skin irritation and damage to internal organs. Many formulas also rely on petrochemical surfactants derived from crude oil. The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table assesses brands on their Toxic Chemicals Policy, making it straightforward to identify products that are genuinely free from harmful ingredients.
Which washing up liquid brands have the worst record on toxic chemicals?
The Good Shopping Guide’s research found that only around half of washing up liquid brands receive a top rating for their Toxic Chemicals Policy. Brands including Fairy, Seventh Generation, and Morning Fresh received the lowest ratings in this area, meaning they are either using toxic chemicals or failing to be transparent about the ingredients in their products. These brands are best avoided by eco-conscious consumers.
Is washing up liquid tested on animals?
Animal welfare is a significant concern in the washing up liquid sector. Many brands continue to test on animals despite humane alternatives being available, and a number of products contain animal-derived ingredients, making them unsuitable for vegans. Even some brands marketed as eco-friendly, such as Method and Ecover, are not fully vegan, so it is worth checking a brand’s ethical rating carefully before purchasing.
How can I find a vegan washing up liquid?
To find a genuinely vegan washing up liquid, look for products certified by The Vegan Society, The Vegetarian Society, or V-Label. The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Washing Up Liquid Ratings Table also assesses brands on their Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Brands in the green section of the table, such as Colt & Willow, GBPro, and Greenscents, all meet the highest standard in both this and other ethical categories.
Are dishwashers more environmentally friendly than washing up by hand?
It may come as a surprise, but dishwashers are considered significantly more water-efficient than handwashing — using approximately four times less water according to Which?. While not affordable or practical for everyone, making the switch could meaningfully reduce your household’s environmental impact. For those who continue to wash up by hand, choosing an ethically rated eco washing up liquid remains the most responsible option.
Is Colt & Willow an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Colt & Willow sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing strongly across all assessed categories, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Holding Ethical Accreditation reflects the brand’s clear commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices. Colt & Willow also holds Ethical Innovator Status, recognising its forward-thinking approach within the washing up liquid sector.
Is GBPro an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
GBPro sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, achieving top ratings in every assessed area, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Its Ethical Accreditation stands as a formal recognition of the brand’s dedication to ethical and sustainable conduct. GBPro also holds Ethical Innovator Status, highlighting its leadership in responsible washing up liquid.
Is Greenscents an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Greenscents sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, earning the highest ratings across all assessed categories, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Its Ethical Accreditation demonstrates a genuine commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices. Greenscents also holds Ethical Innovator Status, reflecting its proactive role in driving ethical standards within the sector.
Is Bio D an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Bio D sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing well across all assessed areas, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. While the brand does not currently hold Ethical Accreditation, applying for it could provide a meaningful way to formally demonstrate its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Bio D also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is EcoLeaf (Suma) an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
EcoLeaf (Suma) sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, achieving strong ratings across all assessed categories, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. As the brand does not currently hold Ethical Accreditation, pursuing it would offer a recognised opportunity to validate its dedication to responsible and sustainable business. EcoLeaf (Suma) also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is Miniml an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Miniml sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, earning top ratings in all assessed areas, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Without Ethical Accreditation, obtaining it would allow Miniml to formally demonstrate its commitment to ethical and sustainable business conduct. The brand also holds Ethical Innovator Status, acknowledging its responsible approach.
Is Wilton London an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Wilton London sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, receiving excellent ratings across all assessed criteria, including its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. As a brand without Ethical Accreditation, applying for it would provide a recognised way to further demonstrate its ethical and sustainable commitments. Wilton London also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is Faith in Nature an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Faith in Nature sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing well in areas such as its Environmental Report, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, though it falls short in its Toxic Chemicals Policy. Without Ethical Accreditation, applying for it could further strengthen the brand’s standing as a responsible choice. Faith in Nature also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is Homethings an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Homethings sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing well in areas such as its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, and Animal Welfare, though it falls short in its Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Without Ethical Accreditation, applying for it could further strengthen Homethings’ standing as a responsible brand. The company also holds Ethical Innovator Status, recognising its commitment to sustainable practices.
Is Ecozone an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Ecozone sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing well in areas such as its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Fossil Fuels, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, though it falls short in its Environmental Report and Animal Welfare. As a brand without Ethical Accreditation, applying for it would allow Ecozone to more formally demonstrate its commitment to responsible practices. The brand also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is OceanSaver an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
OceanSaver sits above the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table, performing well in its Environmental Report, Toxic Chemicals Policy, and Fossil Fuels credentials, though it falls short in its Animal Welfare and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. As a brand without Ethical Accreditation, applying for it could provide formal recognition of OceanSaver’s commitment to sustainable practices. The brand also holds Ethical Innovator Status.
Is Surcare an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Surcare falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs well in areas such as its Environmental Report and Animal Welfare, though it falls short in its Toxic Chemicals Policy and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Consumers seeking washing up liquid brands that do reach the ethical benchmark can consult the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table for more responsible alternatives.
Is Delphis an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Delphis falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs well in its Environmental Report and Fossil Fuels credentials, though it falls short in its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Shoppers looking for washing up liquid brands that do meet the ethical benchmark can explore the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table for more sustainable options.
Is Splosh an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Splosh falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs well in its Environmental Report and Fossil Fuels credentials, though it falls short in its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, and Vegetarian/Vegan credentials. Those seeking washing up liquid brands that reach the ethical benchmark are encouraged to explore the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table for better-rated alternatives.
Is Morning Fresh an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Morning Fresh falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs well in its Environmental Report and Fossil Fuels credentials, though it falls short in several areas, including its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and has attracted Public Record Criticisms. Consumers seeking more responsible alternatives can refer to the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table for better-rated options.
Is Ecover an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Ecover falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand shows acceptable performance in its Environmental Report and Toxic Chemicals Policy, though it falls short in Animal Welfare, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and Political Donations, and has attracted Public Record Criticisms. Consumers looking for brands that do meet the ethical benchmark can explore the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table for better-rated options.
Is Method an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Method falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs acceptably in its Environmental Report and Toxic Chemicals Policy, but falls short in Animal Welfare, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and Political Donations, and has attracted Public Record Criticisms. The Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table offers useful guidance for consumers seeking brands that do meet the ethical benchmark.
Is Mrs Meyers an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Mrs Meyers falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. The brand performs acceptably in its Environmental Report and Toxic Chemicals Policy, though it falls short in Animal Welfare, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and Political Donations, and has attracted Public Record Criticisms. Consumers can turn to the Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table to identify brands that do reach the ethical benchmark.
Is Seventh Generation an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Seventh Generation falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. While it performs well in its Environmental Report and Fossil Fuels credentials, the brand falls short across several key areas, including its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Animal Welfare, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and Political Donations, and has attracted Public Record Criticisms. The Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table can guide consumers toward more responsible alternatives.
Is Fairy an ethical Washing Up Liquid brand?
Fairy falls below the benchmark on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table. While the brand performs well in its Environmental Report, it falls short across numerous areas, including its Toxic Chemicals Policy, Fossil Fuels credentials, Animal Welfare, Vegetarian/Vegan credentials, and Political Donations, with Public Record Criticisms also noted. The Washing Up Liquid Ethical Ratings Table is a helpful resource for consumers seeking more ethical alternatives.
How does The GOOD Shopping Guide's Ethical Accreditation complement other accreditations?
The GOOD Shopping Guide doesn’t replace existing certifications, it ensures your ethical credentials are clearly recognised so they are trusted by consumers. By appearing in our comparison tables, your brand reaches an audience that is actively seeking genuinely ethical options, while also being referenced by Google and AI search tools to enhance credibility and discoverability.
How is The GOOD Shopping Guide's Ethical Accreditation different from other accreditations?
Unlike many accreditations that focus mainly on compliance or internal audits, The GOOD Shopping Guide provides scored, research-led assessments across environment, people and animals. Our tables are consumer-facing and freely accessible, making it easy for shoppers and AI tools to compare brands based on verified performance, not just promises.
How does The GOOD Shopping Guide choose who is eligible for accreditation?
The GOOD Shopping Guide audits brands for their ethical impact across a variety of criteria in the human, animal and environment categories. We research the records of brands and their parent companies, and rate them across those criteria. If they are found to be above our benchmark, they are eligible to apply for Ethical Accreditation.
How can I apply for Ethical Accreditation?
You can apply for Ethical Accreditation if your brand is assessed as above our benchmark. Click on this link to fill out our online form, and our researchers will assess your brand’s viability for Ethical Accreditation.