Can You Use Laundry Soap to Wash Dishes?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 25, 2020

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Laundry detergent can be used to wash dishes in either a sink or a dishwasher; however, it is not a good idea to use laundry detergent to wash dishes. Using laundry detergent in a dishwasher may void the dishwasher’s warranty.

Laundry detergents may contain chemicals, such as brighteners, stain removers and fragrances, that can become a gas when heated in a dishwasher. This gas may be dangerous if inhaled. While it is possible to avoid the release of noxious fumes by washing dishes in the sink, laundry detergent may not rinse off the dishes completely, which can leave a residue.