Ingredient · Updated
Sodium Carbonate
Found in 16 productsSee all
Eco-Max Natural Laundry Detergent Lavender
Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance Free
DanSoap All Natural Laundry Detergent
Blue Land Dishwasher Detergent Tablets Free & Clear
Bio-Vert Dishwasher Tablets
Truly Free Home Dishwasher Detergent Plastic Bag
Molly's Suds Dishwasher Pods | Natural Dishwasher Detergent Cuts Grease & Rinses Clean (Residue-Free) for Sparkling Dishes | 60 Auto-Release Tabs (Unscented)
Buff City Soap Laundry Soap Fresh Cotton What is Sodium Carbonate?
Sodium Carbonate, often referred to as soda ash or washing soda, is a white, water-soluble salt commonly used in cleaning products. It is derived from sodium chloride (table salt) and limestone through a process called the Solvay process.
In consumer products, sodium carbonate is used primarily for its properties as a water softener and pH adjuster. It is found in toothpaste to aid in cleaning and in dishwasher detergents for its effectiveness at cutting through grease. Health-wise, sodium carbonate is generally regarded as safe when used appropriately, although it can be irritating to the skin and eyes in concentrated forms.
When you see sodium carbonate on a label, it's typically used to enhance the performance of the product in cleaning or pH balance, rather than as an ingredient affecting taste or nutrition.
Commonly found in: Toothpaste, Dishwasher Detergents, Cleaning Products, Laundry Detergents
What to watch
- Can cause skin and eye irritation in concentrated forms.
Sodium carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and various other products.
Research consistently shows its effectiveness in cleaning applications with minimal health concerns under normal conditions.
Sodium carbonate is mineral-derived and suitable for vegans.
Sources: Sodium Carbonate Overview
Scout's take
Sodium carbonate, also known as washing soda, is used to soften water and enhance the cleaning power of detergents. It is a common ingredient in cleaning products due to its ability to remove grease and stains. It is generally considered safe and effective for household cleaning.
The case against
In high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues if inhaled.
from the analysis of Eco-Max Natural Laundry Detergent Lavender · echoed in 1 other analysisDirect contact with sodium carbonate can cause skin and eye irritation.
from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher Tablets · echoed in 1 other analysisIn high concentrations, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum Performance · echoed in 1 other analysisSodium carbonate can cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly, especially in concentrated forms.
from the analysis of DanSoap All Natural Laundry DetergentIn high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation, but this is uncommon in typical laundry use.
from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance FreeThe case for
It helps improve the effectiveness of detergents by softening water, which can enhance cleaning power.
from the analysis of DanSoap All Natural Laundry Detergent · echoed in 1 other analysisIt enhances the cleaning power of detergents and is environmentally friendly.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum Performance · echoed in 1 other analysisIt boosts the cleaning efficiency of detergents and helps maintain the pH balance in laundry solutions.
from the analysis of Eco-Max Natural Laundry Detergent LavenderIt helps to remove grease and stains effectively, contributing to cleaner dishes.
from the analysis of Molly's Suds Dishwasher Pods | Natural Dishwasher Detergent Cuts Grease & Rinses Clean (Residue-Free) for Sparkling Dishes | 60 Auto-Release Tabs (Unscented)It effectively removes stains and enhances the cleaning power of detergents.
from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance FreeMore from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance FreeSodium carbonate, also known as soda ash, is a common cleaning agent used to soften water and enhance detergent performance. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is generally safe for use in cleaning products. Its role is primarily functional, aiding in the cleaning process by adjusting water hardness.
from the analysis of DanSoap All Natural Laundry DetergentSodium carbonate is a common cleaning agent used to soften water and enhance the effectiveness of detergents. It is generally considered safe for use in laundry products. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes if not handled properly.
from the analysis of Buff City Soap Laundry Soap Fresh CottonAll 16 products with Sodium Carbonate
Where Sodium Carbonate shows up
- Laundry 7 products
- Dishwasher 6 products
- Surface Cleaners 1 product
- Rice & Pasta 1 product
- Toothpaste 1 product
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