Ingredient
Sodium Percarbonate
What is Sodium Percarbonate?
Sodium percarbonate is a compound composed of sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide. It typically appears as a white, crystalline powder and releases oxygen when dissolved in water.
It is commonly used as a cleaning agent in various household products, such as laundry detergents and dishwasher tablets, due to its ability to break down stains and whiten surfaces. The health evidence suggests that it is generally considered safe for use in household cleaning products, but direct contact in high concentrations might irritate the skin or eyes.
When you see sodium percarbonate on a label, it usually indicates an oxygen-releasing cleaning action, which is preferred for eco-friendly cleaning applications because it breaks down into non-toxic substances.
Commonly found in: Dishwasher detergents, Laundry detergents, Stain removers, Household cleaners
Benefits
- Breaks down into non-toxic substances: water, oxygen, and soda ash.
Sodium percarbonate is not specifically regulated by the FDA for direct food use but is used in products that come into indirect contact with food, like dishwasher detergents.
Research indicates that sodium percarbonate is generally safe for its common uses, but care should be taken to avoid direct contact with the eyes and skin.
Sodium percarbonate is a synthetic compound and is considered vegan.
Sources: Household Cleaning Product Safety
Scout's take
Sodium percarbonate is an oxygen-based bleaching agent that helps in stain removal and whitening. It breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash, making it environmentally friendly. It is effective in enhancing the cleaning power of detergents.
The case against
Can cause irritation if inhaled or in contact with skin in concentrated forms.
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)The case for
Environmentally friendly bleaching agent, effective in stain removal.
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)More from Scout's analyses
Sodium percarbonate is an eco-friendly oxygen bleach that releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water. It is effective for stain removal and brightening, while being biodegradable and safe for aquatic life.
from the analysis of Blue Land Dishwasher Detergent Tablets Free & ClearSodium percarbonate is an eco-friendly oxygen bleach that releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water, providing effective stain removal and whitening without harmful chemicals.
from the analysis of the BARE Co Dishwasher Detergent fresh lemon scentFound in 3 products
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play