Podcast Summary
Dishwasher tablets: Dishwasher tablets, including those with wrapper-free films, dissolve in water during the wash cycle and are made of soluble plastics like polyvinyl alcohol.
The use of dishwasher tablets, particularly those with wrapper-free films, is a common topic of interest among listeners. Deborah Sumby and Graham Osler from this week's episode of Slice to Bread raised questions about the effectiveness and environmental friendliness of different dishwasher tablets, including those from eco-friendly brands like Ecover. The experts, Dr. Francis Hasard and Matt Knight, shared insights from independent lab tests and explained that dishwasher tablets, including those with wrapper-free films, are designed to dissolve in water during the wash cycle. The films are typically made of soluble plastics like polyvinyl alcohol, which dissolve under the right conditions. Listeners were curious about the differences between dishwasher tablets and powders, and whether using separate components or specific brands like Ecover had any advantages. Stay tuned to Slice to Bread for more investigations into everyday wonder products.
Dishwasher tablets additives: More expensive dishwasher tablets may contain additional features like rinse aid and fragrances, but they can contribute to microplastic pollution if not properly treated in wastewater systems.
While dishwasher tablets, regardless of their price point, contain essential components like surfactants, enzymes, and bleach, more expensive options may include additional features such as rinse aid and fragrances. However, there are concerns regarding the environmental impact of these additives, particularly rinse aid, which can contribute to microplastic pollution if not properly treated in wastewater systems. It's crucial to consider these factors when making purchasing decisions for dishwasher tablets. Additionally, the incomplete degradation of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in some dishwasher cycles may contribute to microplastic pollution, and ongoing research aims to understand the potential harm this could cause in aquatic environments.
Sensory appeal vs. cleaning performance: While sensory appeal can influence the perception of cleanliness, it doesn't necessarily improve cleaning performance. Expensive tablets may contain more cleaning agents and additional compounds, but not all deliver better results than budget options.
While dishwasher tablets with added scents and hydrotopes don't directly contribute to cleaning performance, they enhance the sensory appeal of the tablets, making users believe the dishes are cleaner. More expensive tablets may contain higher concentrations of cleaning agents and additional compounds, such as hydrotopes and glass protectors, which can result in a more effective clean and better preservation of the shine on glasses. However, not all expensive tablets perform better than budget options, and the difference in performance can vary greatly between brands. Therefore, it's essential to consider individual product performance and consumer preferences when choosing dishwasher tablets.
Dishwasher additives: Dishwasher tablets include corrosion inhibitors, polymers, and salt to prevent mineral build-up in harder water areas. Rinse aid is often included, reducing the need for separate additives. However, additional salt may be necessary in hard water regions, and all-in-one tablets may not always provide enough.
Dishwasher tablets contain various additives like corrosion inhibitors and polymers to prevent mineral deposition, especially in harder water areas. Salt is also used to protect against lime scale build-up. Rinse aid, which helps dishes dry, can be found in tablets, reducing the need for separate additives. However, in hard water areas, additional salt may be necessary. All-in-one tablets may not always contain enough salt for these regions. The removal of harmful chemicals like phosphates from dishwasher tablets has been a priority to reduce environmental impact, specifically preventing eutrophication and aquatic pollution. Modern dishwashers have improved processes that dilute and naturally break down these compounds.
Dishwasher tablets and environment: Traditional dishwasher tablets contain harmful chemicals that can negatively impact the environment, while eco-friendly alternatives have reduced phosphate levels but may still contain surfactants and plastic wrapping, requiring careful disposal
While traditional dishwasher tablets are effective at cleaning dishes, they contain chemicals like phosphates, surfactants, and corrosion inhibitors, some of which can negatively impact the environment when released into waterways. Specifically, certain chemicals called benzotriazoles and tollyl triazoles, used as silver polishing and protection agents, are resistant to biological treatments and have unknown ecotoxicity. Eco-friendly dishwasher tablets, like those from Ecova, claim to use plant-based biodegradable ingredients and have reduced phosphate levels. However, they may still contain some surfactants and come individually wrapped in plastic. While eco-friendly manufacturing processes and recyclable packaging are steps in the right direction, it's important to consider the entire lifecycle of the product, including the disposal of individual plastic wrappers. Ultimately, consumers must weigh the environmental impact of convenience and cost against the potential harm to the environment.
Eco vs Non-Eco Dishwasher Tablets: Eco dishwasher tablets and powders may have greener supply chains and fewer harmful chemicals but they don't necessarily clean as effectively as non-eco products and their prices vary greatly.
While eco-branded dishwasher tablets and powders may come from greener supply chains and contain fewer harmful chemicals, they don't necessarily clean as effectively as their non-eco counterparts. Additionally, some eco products may still contain high levels of chemicals that are necessary for proper cleaning. Furthermore, the cost of eco-friendly dishwasher tablets and powders can vary greatly, with some costing significantly more than others. For example, Ecova tablets cost three times as much as Sainsbury's basic, while Small's plastic-free tablets are cheaper at 21 pence per tablet. However, none of the eco-focused products tested clean as well as the top dishwasher tablets in tests conducted. Ultimately, the decision between eco and non-eco dishwasher tablets and powders depends on individual priorities, with some consumers placing more importance on the ecological impact and others on the cleaning performance.
Dishwasher detergents: While tablets offer convenience, powders are more economical and eco-friendly. Consumers should consider their priorities and budgets when choosing between the two, and opt for eco-friendly options.
While dishwasher tablets offer convenience, they come with environmental drawbacks such as excess packaging and transportation of water for liquid detergents. Powder detergents, on the other hand, offer more flexibility, require less packaging, and can be more economical when used appropriately. However, the cleaning performance and eco-impact can vary between brands and types of tablets or powders. Ultimately, consumers need to make their own decisions based on their priorities and budgets. Francis and Matt, our experts, agreed that dishwasher tablets are generally effective and convenient, but recommended opting for eco-friendly options. Deborah suggested trying out different brands to find the best clean while also considering other ways to be environmentally friendly. Francis advised against liquid detergents due to their environmental footprint, and instead recommended powders or tablets.
Hidden dangers in consumer products: Some consumer products may contain hidden dangers, such as asbestos in cosmetics, which can lead to serious health issues including cancer. It's important to be aware of potential risks and do research before using products.
Foam rollers can be used for both warming up before a workout and recovering after one. During our upcoming episode, we'll be discussing this topic with listener Brendan from New Zealand. Meanwhile, a cautionary tale: an ingredient found in some cosmetics, tauk, has raised concerns due to potential asbestos contamination. Women who have been diagnosed with cancer have even taken legal action against cosmetics companies over this issue. This is just one example of how consumer products can contain hidden dangers, a topic we explored further in a recent BBC Radio 4 series called "How They Made Us Doubt Everything." Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Slicebread. Our team includes Greg Foote (writer and presenter), Simon Hoban (producer), Emma Solkeld (science advisor), and Kelly Young (studio manager). Tune in to BBC Sounds for our upcoming episode on foam rollers.