Cascade Complete 46-Count Fresh Dishwasher Detergent
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dishwasher detergent contains beneficial enzymes that enhance cleaning performance and are environmentally friendly. However, the presence of synthetic fragrances, which can cause allergic reactions and are not fully disclosed, negatively impacts the product's safety profile. The overall formulation includes a mix of synthetic and plant-based ingredients, resulting in a moderate processing level.
Key ingredients 21
Amylase EnzymeGood
Amylase enzyme specifically targets starch residues, breaking them down into sugars for easier removal. It is biodegradable and reduces the need for harsh chemicals. This enzyme is effective in improving cleaning performance.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Efficiently breaks down starches, enhancing cleaning power and is environmentally friendly.
Sodium CarbonateNeutral
Sodium carbonate is a common cleaning agent used to soften water and enhance detergent performance. It is generally considered safe for use in cleaning products. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes in concentrated forms.
Risks
Potential skin and eye irritation if not handled properly.
Benefits
Helps to soften water and improve cleaning efficiency.
Sodium SilicateNeutral
Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor and to maintain the alkalinity of the detergent. It is effective in preventing metal corrosion in dishwashers. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
Risks
May cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
Benefits
Prevents corrosion and maintains alkalinity, enhancing cleaning performance.
EnzymesNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Minimal risks, though some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
Enhance cleaning by breaking down food residues and are biodegradable.
SubtilisinNeutral
Subtilisin is a protease enzyme that breaks down protein-based stains. It is effective in cleaning but can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It is biodegradable and reduces reliance on harsh chemicals.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Breaks down protein stains effectively and is biodegradable.
ColorantsNeutral
Colorants are added to enhance the appearance of the product. They do not contribute to cleaning performance. Some synthetic colorants may pose health risks if ingested.
Risks
Potential health risks if ingested; generally safe in cleaning products.
Benefits
Improves product appearance without affecting cleaning performance.
Copolymer Of Acrylic Maleic And Sulphonic AcidsNeutral
This copolymer is used to prevent redeposition of soil on dishes. It is effective in maintaining cleanliness during the wash cycle. However, it is a synthetic compound with limited biodegradability.
Risks
Limited biodegradability may impact the environment.
Benefits
Prevents soil redeposition, maintaining dish cleanliness.
PEG/PPG/Propylheptyl EtherNeutral
This compound is used as a surfactant to enhance cleaning performance. It is effective in breaking down grease and residues. However, it is a synthetic compound with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to synthetic nature.
Benefits
Enhances cleaning by breaking down grease and residues.
Sodium Carbonate PeroxideNeutral
Sodium carbonate peroxide acts as a bleaching agent, helping to remove stains. It releases oxygen, which aids in cleaning and sanitizing. However, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
Risks
May cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly.
Benefits
Effective in stain removal and sanitizing through oxygen release.
Sodium SulfateNeutral
Sodium sulfate is used as a filler to bulk up the product. It is generally considered safe and non-toxic. However, it does not contribute to cleaning performance.
Risks
Minimal risks; generally safe for use.
Benefits
Acts as a filler, providing bulk to the product.
Transitional Metal CatalystNeutral
Transitional metal catalysts are used to enhance the effectiveness of bleaching agents. They help in breaking down stains more efficiently. However, specific metals used are not disclosed, raising potential safety concerns.
Risks
Potential safety concerns due to undisclosed metal content.
Benefits
Enhances bleaching effectiveness, improving stain removal.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. It is essential for dissolving and distributing cleaning agents. Water is safe and non-toxic.
Benefits
Acts as a solvent and carrier, essential for product formulation.
Zinc CarbonateNeutral
Zinc carbonate is used as a corrosion inhibitor in cleaning products. It helps protect metal parts in dishwashers from corrosion. However, excessive zinc can be harmful to aquatic life.
Risks
Potential environmental impact on aquatic life if not managed properly.
Benefits
Prevents corrosion, protecting metal parts in dishwashers.
BenzotriazoleNeutral
Benzotriazole is used as a corrosion inhibitor, particularly for copper and its alloys. It is effective in protecting metal surfaces during cleaning. However, it is a synthetic compound with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to synthetic nature.
Benefits
Protects metal surfaces from corrosion during cleaning.
Dipropylene GlycolNeutral
Dipropylene glycol is used as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. It is generally considered safe and non-toxic. However, it does not contribute to cleaning performance.
Risks
Minimal risks; generally safe for use.
Benefits
Acts as a solvent and carrier, aiding in product formulation.
GlycerinNeutral
Glycerin is used as a humectant and stabilizer in cleaning products. It helps maintain moisture and consistency. Glycerin is generally safe and non-toxic.
Risks
Minimal risks; generally safe for use.
Benefits
Maintains moisture and consistency, enhancing product stability.
Isotridecanol EthoxylatedNeutral
Isotridecanol ethoxylated is a surfactant used to enhance cleaning performance. It is effective in breaking down grease and residues. However, it is a synthetic compound with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to synthetic nature.
Benefits
Enhances cleaning by breaking down grease and residues.
Polyvinyl Alcohol PolymerNeutral
Polyvinyl alcohol polymer is used as a film-forming agent in cleaning products. It helps in the controlled release of active ingredients. However, it is a synthetic compound with limited biodegradability.
Risks
Limited biodegradability may impact the environment.
Benefits
Facilitates controlled release of active ingredients, enhancing product performance.
TolyftriazoleNeutral
Tolyftriazole is used as a corrosion inhibitor, particularly for copper and its alloys. It is effective in protecting metal surfaces during cleaning. However, it is a synthetic compound with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to synthetic nature.
Benefits
Protects metal surfaces from corrosion during cleaning.
Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl AlaninateNeutral
Trisodium dicarboxymethyl alaninate is used as a chelating agent to bind metal ions. It helps improve cleaning performance by preventing metal ion interference. However, it is a synthetic compound with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
Potential environmental impact due to synthetic nature.
Benefits
Improves cleaning performance by binding metal ions.
FragrancesBad
Fragrances are added to provide a pleasant scent but can contain synthetic chemicals. These chemicals may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Fragrances are often not fully disclosed, raising concerns about safety.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions and skin irritation.
Benefits
Provides a pleasant scent to the product.
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