Method Dishwasher Packs, Free + Clear

A fragrance-free and chlorine-free dishwasher pod powered by dual enzymes and oxygen bleach for a safe yet effective deep clean.

Performance Rating: 4.5

This formulation contains a comprehensive suite of high-performance cleaning agents. It features a dual-enzyme system (Amylase and Protease) essential for breaking down starch and protein residues. The combination of Sodium Percarbonate and Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) creates a powerful oxygen bleach system effective at lower temperatures. Additionally, the inclusion of Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate (MGDA) and Sodium Citrate ensures effective water softening and stain removal even in hard water conditions, making this a highly effective detergent.

Safety Rating: 4.2

The product scores highly on safety and environmental impact by excluding phosphates and chlorine bleach, opting instead for biodegradable builders like MGDA and Sodium Polyaspartate. The lack of listed fragrances or dyes reduces the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation. While concentrated detergents like Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Silicate are naturally irritating if handled directly, the overall profile utilizes safer, modern chemical alternatives compared to traditional harsh detergents.

Final Rating: 4.4

This is an excellent formulation that successfully balances heavy-duty cleaning power with eco-conscious ingredients. It utilizes modern chemistry (such as the TAED bleach activation system and biodegradable chelators) to deliver results competitive with leading conventional brands while minimizing environmental harm. It is a robust, safe, and effective choice for automatic dishwashing.

Verdict

The ingredient list provided represents a high-quality, mineral-based dishwasher detergent that successfully bridges the gap between non-toxic safety and industrial-strength efficacy. At its core, the product utilizes Sodium Carbonate and Sodium Citrate as the primary builders. These ingredients are classic, safe choices for softening water and creating the alkaline environment necessary for removing grease. This implies a strong performance profile even in areas with moderately hard water, especially with the addition of Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate, a potent and biodegradable chelating agent that prevents mineral deposits on glassware.

A standout feature of this ingredient list is the cleaning mechanism. Rather than relying on harsh chlorine bleach, which can damage patterns on china and release fumes, this pod uses Sodium Percarbonate paired with Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED). This duo creates a powerful oxygen bleach reaction at lower temperatures, effectively tackling oxidizable stains like tea, coffee, and tomato sauce while sanitizing the load. This is a significant advantage for energy-conscious consumers who prefer eco-cycles or lower temperature settings on their machines.

Furthermore, the inclusion of a dual-enzyme blend comprising Amylase and Protease ensures that biological food residues are physically broken down. Protease targets proteins like egg and cheese, while Amylase handles starches such as rice and pasta. Without these enzymes, natural detergents often struggle to remove stuck-on food. The formula also includes Sodium Polyaspartate and Sodium Silicate, which serve as anti-redeposition agents and corrosion inhibitors, protecting cloudy build-up on glasses and preventing metal corrosion on silverware.

For consumers concerned with allergens, the complete absence of fragrances, perfumes, and dyes is a massive benefit. This makes the pods suitable for washing baby bottles or for use in households with individuals suffering from chemical sensitivities or eczema. The surfactant used, Modified Fatty Alcohol Polyglycolether, helps reduce surface tension for a spot-free shine without introducing aggressive chemicals. The only potential downside for the strictest of environmentalists is the Polyvinyl Alcohol Film. While water-soluble and generally regarded as safe, it is a synthetic polymer. However, for the vast majority of users looking to switch from conventional brands to a safer option, this product offers an excellent, residue-free clean without the toxicity of phosphates or chlorine.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Builders and pH Regulators / 助洗剂与pH调节剂

🧪 SODIUM CARBONATE / 碳酸钠

Purpose: Increases alkalinity to help clean and soften water; acts as a primary cleaning agent.

Concerns: Can be irritating to eyes and skin if handled directly.

Notes: Commonly known as washing soda.

🧪 SODIUM CITRATE / 柠檬酸钠

Purpose: Acts as a water softener (chelating agent) to prevent limescale buildup.

Concerns: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS).

Notes: An eco-friendly alternative to phosphates.

🧪 TRISODIUM DICARBOXYMETHYL ALANINATE / 甲基甘氨酸二乙酸三钠 (MGDA)

Purpose: Strong chelating agent that binds calcium and magnesium ions to improve cleaning performance.

Concerns: Low toxicity; generally considered safe for environment.

Notes: A modern, biodegradable alternative to EDTA or phosphates.

🧪 SODIUM SILICATE / 硅酸钠

Purpose: Provides alkalinity and protects dishwasher metal parts from corrosion.

Concerns: Can be corrosive in high concentrations; irritating to skin/eyes.

Notes: Also helps structurally hold the tablet/powder together.

🧪 SODIUM BICARBONATE / 碳酸氢钠

Purpose: Buffers pH and acts as a mild cleaning agent.

Concerns: None; safe for consumption and skin contact.

Notes: Commonly known as baking soda.

🧪 SODIUM GLUCONATE / 葡萄糖酸钠

Purpose: Chelating agent that assists in preventing mineral deposits and spotting.

Concerns: Safe and biodegradable.

Notes: Derived from glucose.

📁 Bleaching Agents / 漂白剂

🧪 SODIUM PERCARBONATE / 过碳酸钠

Purpose: Releases oxygen to break down organic stains (like tea or coffee) and sanitize.

Concerns: Oxidizer; irritating to eyes and skin.

Notes: Environmentally friendly bleach that breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash.

🧪 TETRAACETYLETHYLENEDIAMINE / 四乙酰乙二胺 (TAED)

Purpose: Bleach activator that allows Sodium Percarbonate to work effectively at lower water temperatures.

Concerns: Low toxicity; readily biodegradable.

Notes: Essential for energy-efficient wash cycles.

📁 Surfactants and Dispersants / 表面活性剂与分散剂

🧪 MODIFIED FATTY ALCOHOL POLYGLYCOLETHER / 改性脂肪醇聚乙二醇醚

Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant that cuts through grease and reduces surface tension.

Concerns: Some surfactants can be toxic to aquatic life if not biodegradable, though modern variants improve on this.

Notes: Low-foaming agent suitable for dishwashers.

🧪 SODIUM POLYASPARTATE / 聚天冬氨酸钠

Purpose: Dispersant and anti-redeposition agent; prevents dirt from settling back onto dishes.

Concerns: None significant; it is a biodegradable polymer.

Notes: A greener alternative to polyacrylates.

📁 Enzymes / 酶制剂

🧪 AMYLASE ENZYME BLEND / 淀粉酶混合物

Purpose: Breaks down starch-based food residues (e.g., pasta, potatoes, rice).

Concerns: Can cause respiratory sensitization if inhaled in dust form.

Notes: Biologically active proteins.

🧪 PROTEASE ENZYME BLEND / 蛋白酶混合物

Purpose: Breaks down protein-based food residues (e.g., egg, meat, dairy).

Concerns: Can cause skin irritation or respiratory sensitization.

Notes: Works best at specific temperatures usually aligned with eco-cycles.

📁 Processing Aids and Packaging / 加工助剂与包装

🧪 SODIUM SULFATE / 硫酸钠

Purpose: Filler and processing aid; helps control the density and flow of the powder.

Concerns: Generally safe; can be drying to skin.

Notes: Does not contribute directly to cleaning but aids product physical stability.

🧪 SORBITOL / 山梨糖醇

Purpose: Humectant and binder; helps maintain moisture balance and tablet structure.

Concerns: Safe; commonly used in food.

Notes: Sugar alcohol.

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant and solvent; keeps the pod flexible or stabilizes liquid components.

Concerns: Safe; non-toxic.

Notes: Often part of the liquid phase or film formulation.

🧪 POLYVINYL ALCOHOL FILM / 聚乙烯醇薄膜

Purpose: Water-soluble casing that encapsulates the detergent.

Concerns: Biodegradability varies depending on specific formulation and water treatment conditions.

Notes: Dissolves completely in water to release ingredients.