Ingredient · Updated
Sodium Silicate
Found in 5 products
Molly's Suds Dishwasher Pods | Natural Dishwasher Detergent Cuts Grease & Rinses Clean (Residue-Free) for Sparkling Dishes | 60 Auto-Release Tabs (Unscented) 
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon Scent 
Kirkland Signature Heavy-Duty Laundry Detergent Super Concentrate 
Tide Tide Powder Laundry Detergent Original Scent 
Colgate Cavity Protection Great Regular Flavor Toothpaste What is Sodium Silicate?
Sodium Silicate is a compound made from combining silica (sand) with sodium carbonate and heat. It results in a glass-like, water-soluble solid that can be used in various industrial applications.
In consumer products, Sodium Silicate is commonly used as a corrosion inhibitor and to regulate pH levels. It can be found in toothpaste, where it aids in cleaning teeth, and in dishwashing products to soften water. The scientific consensus on its safety is generally positive, with no significant health risks reported in typical usage.
When you see Sodium Silicate on a label, it's typically used for its functional benefits in cleaning or maintenance of product stability. It's considered safe when used in regulated amounts.
Commonly found in: Toothpaste, Dishwashing Detergent, Cement Production, Water Treatment
Benefits
- Improves the efficacy of cleaning agents by softening water.
- Helps to stabilize the pH levels in toothpaste for better oral health.
Sodium Silicate is recognized as generally safe for use in regulated amounts in consumer products.
Research indicates Sodium Silicate is safe in consumer products, with no major health concerns in typical use cases.
Not derived from animal sources, and generally accepted in vegan products.
Sources: Sodium Silicate Safety Review
Scout's take
Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor and to maintain the alkalinity of the detergent. It helps to protect metal parts of washing machines from rust.
The case against
Can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
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) · echoed in 2 other analysesExcessive exposure can cause skin irritation.
from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon ScentThe case for
It protects metal parts of dishwashers from corrosion, extending their lifespan.
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) · echoed in 1 other analysisPrevents corrosion and enhances the longevity of washing machines.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Heavy-Duty Laundry Detergent Super ConcentrateProtects metal parts from corrosion and stabilizes detergent.
from the analysis of Tide Tide Powder Laundry Detergent Original ScentMore from Scout's analyses
Sodium silicate acts as a corrosion inhibitor and helps to maintain the stability of the detergent formula. It is generally safe for use in cleaning products. It does not pose significant health risks when used appropriately.
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)Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor and to maintain alkalinity in detergents. It helps in preventing metal parts from rusting. It is generally considered safe in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon ScentpH adjuster; inert at typical concentrations.
from the analysis of Colgate Cavity Protection Great Regular Flavor ToothpasteAll 5 products with Sodium Silicate
Where Sodium Silicate shows up
- Dishwasher 2 products
- Laundry 2 products
- Toothpaste 1 product
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