Ingredient · Updated

Sodium Carbonate

Neutral in 16

Found in 16 productsSee all

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.
FDA

Sodium carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and various other products.

Research

Research consistently shows its effectiveness in cleaning applications with minimal health concerns under normal conditions.

Vegan

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 analysis

Direct contact with sodium carbonate can cause skin and eye irritation.

from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher Tablets · echoed in 1 other analysis

In 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 analysis

Sodium carbonate can cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly, especially in concentrated forms.

from the analysis of DanSoap All Natural Laundry Detergent

In 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 Free

The 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 analysis

It enhances the cleaning power of detergents and is environmentally friendly.

from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum Performance · echoed in 1 other analysis

It boosts the cleaning efficiency of detergents and helps maintain the pH balance in laundry solutions.

from the analysis of Eco-Max Natural Laundry Detergent Lavender

It effectively removes stains and enhances the cleaning power of detergents.

from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance Free

More 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 Free

Sodium 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 Detergent

Sodium 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 Cotton

All 16 products with Sodium Carbonate

Where Sodium Carbonate shows up

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