Amazon Basics Dish Soap, Fresh Scent

A high-efficiency dish soap formulated with strong anionic surfactants for degreasing, though it relies on synthetic preservatives and fragrances that may irritate sensitive skin.

Performance Rating: 4.3

This formula utilizes a robust trio of surfactants: Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate (excellent for cutting grease), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (a high-foaming cleanser), and Cocoamidopropyl Betaine (a foam booster and stabilizer). The inclusion of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) ensures the soap maintains its effectiveness even in hard water by chelating mineral ions. This composition suggests very high degreasing power and foam stability.

Safety Rating: 2.0

The safety profile is compromised by the use of Methylisothiazolinone and Benzisothiazolinone, which are preservatives known to be strong skin sensitizers and common allergens associated with contact dermatitis. Furthermore, Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate can be quite harsh and drying to the skin. The inclusion of generic Fragrance and Dye adds unnecessary potential irritants, and EDTA raises environmental concerns regarding biodegradability and heavy metal mobilization.

Final Rating: 3.1

As a cleaning agent, this product is highly effective; however, it relies on older, harsher chemistry to achieve those results. While it will strip grease from pans efficiently, the presence of isothiazolinone preservatives and strong anionic surfactants makes it a poor choice for users with sensitive skin or for the environment. It represents a standard ‘economy’ formulation where performance takes precedence over mildness.

Verdict

This dish soap represents a classic formulation designed primarily for heavy-duty degreasing rather than skin pampering. At its core, the formula relies on a powerful duo of anionic surfactants: Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). These ingredients are industry standards for a reason; they are exceptionally effective at breaking down oils and food residue, ensuring that plates come out squeaky clean. The addition of Cocoamidopropyl Betaine serves a dual purpose. It helps boost the foam to give you those satisfying bubbles while acting as a mild co-surfactant to slightly offset the harshness of the primary cleaning agents. However, the efficacy of this product comes with trade-offs regarding skin health. The presence of Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and Benzisothiazolinone (BIT) is significant. These preservatives are effective at stopping bacterial growth in the bottle, but they are also well-documented contact allergens. For individuals with a history of dermatitis or reactive skin, these ingredients can trigger irritation or allergic reactions, especially with frequent use. The inclusion of unspecified Fragrance and Dye further increases the potential for sensitization, adding aesthetic appeal at the cost of purity. On a functional note, the inclusion of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a strategic choice. As a chelating agent, it binds to metal ions found in tap water, making this soap a viable option for households struggling with hard water. By preventing mineral buildup, it ensures the surfactants can work freely against grease without being neutralized by calcium or magnesium in the water supply. Ultimately, this is a utilitarian product. It lacks moisturizing agents like glycerin or aloe vera, meaning it will likely strip natural oils from your hands alongside the grease on your pans. If your primary goal is removing stubborn food residue at an affordable price point, this formulation delivers. However, if you prioritize skin comfort or eco-friendly ingredients, the reliance on strong synthetic detergents and potentially irritating preservatives makes it a less suitable choice. Users are advised to wear protective gloves during extended washing sessions to mitigate the drying effects of the strong surfactants and salts.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvent / 溶剂

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: The liquid base that dissolves the other ingredients to form the solution.

Concerns: None.

Notes: The primary ingredient in liquid dish soap.

📁 Surfactants (Cleaning Agents) / 表面活性剂

🧪 Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate / 十二烷基苯磺酸钠

Purpose: A strong anionic surfactant that cuts through grease and creates foam.

Concerns: Can be drying or irritating to the skin with prolonged exposure.

Notes: A workhorse ingredient in many heavy-duty cleaners.

🧪 Sodium Laureth Sulfate / 月桂醇聚醚硫酸酯钠

Purpose: An anionic surfactant used for its effective foaming and cleaning properties.

Concerns: Potential for skin irritation; concerns exist regarding contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, though usually monitored.

Notes: SLES is gentler than SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate).

🧪 Cocoamidopropyl Betaine / 椰油酰胺丙基甜菜碱

Purpose: An amphoteric surfactant that boosts foam, thickens the product, and reduces irritation from stronger surfactants.

Concerns: Generally safe, but impurities formed during manufacturing can sometimes cause allergic reactions.

Notes: Derived from coconut oil.

📁 Functional Additives / 功能性添加剂

🧪 Sodium Chloride / 氯化钠

Purpose: Used to increase the viscosity (thickness) of the product.

Concerns: None.

Notes: Common table salt.

🧪 Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) / 乙二胺四乙酸

Purpose: A chelating agent that binds to minerals in water (like calcium and magnesium) to improve cleaning in hard water.

Concerns: Can be irritating to eyes; environmental concerns regarding its persistence in water systems.

Notes: Helps prevent soap scum and maintains stability.

📁 Preservatives / 防腐剂

🧪 Methylisothiazolinone / 甲基异噻唑啉酮

Purpose: Prevents the growth of bacteria and mold in the product.

Concerns: A known skin sensitizer and allergen; can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.

Notes: Often abbreviated as MIT.

🧪 Benzisothiazolinone / 苯并异噻唑啉酮

Purpose: Antimicrobial agent used to preserve the shelf life of the soap.

Concerns: Can be a skin irritant and sensitizer.

Notes: Often abbreviated as BIT.

📁 Aesthetic Agents / 感官添加剂

🧪 Fragrance / 香精

Purpose: Adds a pleasant scent to the product to mask chemical odors.

Concerns: One of the most common causes of contact dermatitis; specific ingredients are often not disclosed due to trade secrets.

Notes: Can be synthetic or derived from essential oils.

🧪 Dye / 染料

Purpose: Adds color to the liquid for visual appeal and brand identification.

Concerns: Some synthetic dyes may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Notes: Purely cosmetic function.