ATTITUDE Dishwasher Pods Unscented

A simplified, plant-based detergent utilizing a blend of coconut-derived surfactants to cut grease without the use of harsh enzymes or bleaching agents.

Performance Rating: 1.0

This ingredient list is highly unusual for an automatic dishwasher detergent and appears to be a formulation for hand dish soap. Dishwashers require low-foaming surfactants and rely on enzymes (protease, amylase) and builders (citrates, carbonates) to break down food and soften water. The ingredients listed here—specifically Sodium Coco-Sulfate—are high-foaming anionic surfactants. Using this in a dishwasher would likely cause excessive sudsing (foam overflow), pump cavitation, and very poor cleaning results on dried-on food due to the lack of enzymes and bleaching agents.

Safety Rating: 4.7

From a health and environmental perspective, the ingredients are excellent. They are plant-derived, biodegradable, and mild. The formulation avoids harsh chemicals typically found in dishwasher detergents, such as phosphates, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances. It is hypoallergenic and safe for gray water systems.

Final Rating: 1.8

While the product receives a near-perfect score for ingredient safety and eco-friendliness, it is fundamentally ill-suited for the stated purpose of an automatic dishwasher pod. The formulation lacks the necessary chemical energy (alkalinity, enzymes) to clean effectively in a machine and poses a risk of damaging the appliance due to high foam generation. Ideally, this formula should be used for hand washing dishes, where it would perform well.

Verdict

The formulation provided represents a radical departure from conventional automatic dishwashing detergents. Most standard pods are a chemical cocktail of enzymes, bleaching agents, anti-redeposition polymers, and chelators. In stark contrast, this product relies entirely on a blend of anionic and non-ionic surfactants. The primary cleaning agent, Sodium Coco-Sulfate, is a coconut-derived alternative to harsher sulfates, providing the necessary foaming and grease-cutting action. This is supported by a trio of glucosides: Lauryl Glucoside, Myristyl Glucoside, and Caprylyl Glucoside. These are sugar-derived, biodegradable surfactants known for their mildness and ability to break down surface oils. The sheer simplicity of this ingredient list is commendable for those seeking a truly natural and non-toxic cleaning solution. There are no artificial fragrances, dyes, or harsh preservatives listed, making it an excellent choice for households with chemical sensitivities or those strictly avoiding synthetic additives. However, from a performance standpoint, users should manage their expectations. Modern dishwashers rely heavily on enzymes (like protease and amylase) to digest stuck-on food particles such as dried egg or oatmeal. Without these enzymatic cleaners or oxidative bleaches, this pod may struggle with baked-on residues or heavy staining from tea and coffee. The surfactants will excel at washing away fresh grease and oil, but mechanical scraping or pre-rinsing will likely be necessary for dirty loads. Furthermore, the lack of water softeners or chelating agents suggests that this product may leave water spots or mineral deposits in areas with hard water, necessitating the use of a separate rinse aid. In summary, this is a highly eco-conscious product that prioritizes safety and environmental impact over aggressive cleaning power. It is ideal for light daily loads but may require extra manual effort for heavily soiled cookware.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Surfactants & Cleaning Agents / 表面活性剂与清洁成分

🧪 Sodium Coco-Sulfate / 椰油醇硫酸酯钠

Purpose: Anionic surfactant responsible for removing grease, dirt, and food particles.

Concerns: Generally considered safer than SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), but can still be a skin irritant in high concentrations (less concern for dishwasher pods as they are not applied to skin).

Notes: Derived from coconut oil, it is a blend of fatty acids rather than a single isolated chain.

🧪 Lauryl Glucoside / 月桂基葡糖苷

Purpose: Non-ionic surfactant that helps lift dirt and oils; acts as a mild detergent.

Concerns: Considered very safe and mild; low risk of irritation.

Notes: Biodegradable ingredient derived from plant sugars and fatty alcohols.

🧪 Myristyl Glucoside / 肉豆蔻基葡糖苷

Purpose: Surfactant used for its cleansing properties and ability to stabilize foam/emulsions.

Concerns: No significant concerns; generally recognized as safe.

Notes: Often used in combination with other glucosides to enhance cleaning performance.

🧪 Caprylyl Glucoside / 辛基葡糖苷

Purpose: Surfactant and solubilizer that helps mix oil and water; assists in cleaning efficiency.

Concerns: Very low concern; known for being mild and gentle.

Notes: Effective in high pH environments often found in dishwashing.