Are you a parent who is looking for the best dish soap to remove milk residue and other impurities from baby items like bottles, pacifiers, and breast pump accessories? Regular soap can have harsh chemicals that irritate sensitive skin and transfer from bottle to baby.
The best option is to get a product with natural ingredients! Learn the benefits for yourself by reading this post.
Best Multi-Purpose Bottle Soaps
Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap: Peppermint
Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap has 18 in 1 uses.
Peppermint burst is their most popular scent, but they have a variety of options including: lavender, almond, citrus, Teatree, rose, and eucalyptus.
Sizes vary from 2 oz all the way up to 1 Gallon. This product is concentrated too so you get a lot of bang for your buck. Plus it uses organic and certified fair trade ingredients. You can also use it to clean your body, hair, laundry, and even your pets.
- Dr. Bronner hemp peppermint
Pros
- Effective and efficient
- Gentle with no residue
- No harsh chemicals
- Lasts a long time
Cons
- Does not foam
- Not optimal for heavy duty dirty dishes
- Expensive upfront
Bottle Soap Most Loved by Moms
Dapple Baby Bottle and Dish Soap
Dapple Baby Bottle and Dish Soap is made with cleaner products that are 100% plant based.
Furthermore, there are no harsh chemicals like synthetic colors, fragrances, sulfates, or parabens. Dappler is never outsourced outside the US plus it’s cruelty-free.
Scientifically proven results that remove up to 50% more smells and odors. This company works with licensed pediatricians, toxicologists, and dermatologists in formula development.
- MULTI-USE AND SPECIALLY FORMULATED TO CLEAN RESIDUE FROM MILK AND FORMULA: Dapple Baby Bottle & Dish Soap is specifically formulated to clean fat, protein and carbohydrate residue, which is commonly found in baby bottles with milk and formula film, and more broadly when cleaning the full family’s dishes.
Pros
- Cruelty & toxin free
- Fragrance free
- Scientifically proven
Cons
- Expensive
Babyganics Foaming Dish and Bottle Soap
First time moms love Babyganics Foaming Dish and Bottle Soap.
This foaming soap, made from plant-derived and thoughtful ingredients, is best at cleaning off residue and food elements from dishes.
This product comes in 3 sizes: 3.4 oz, 16 oz, and 32 oz. It may be expensive at first but will last a long time so the price evens out.
Babyganics works really well with no weird smells. The product leaves behind no residue, water spots, or grease.
- Made without phosphates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances or dyes
Pros
- Plant based thoughtful ingredients
- Removes all residue and water spots
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Expensive
- Might have a chemical smell
Elysium Natural Baby Bottle Liquid Dish Soap
Elysium is an antibacterial soap that’s also ecological and specifically designed for washing, cleaning and disinfecting baby products like bottles, pacifiers and pumps.
Elysium is rated the number 1 antibacterial soap.
It’s gentle on your dishes and skin plus it is biodegradable, versatile, and works really well. A little goes a long way and it doesn’t leave any soap residue.
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Pros
- Antibacterial
- Biodegradable
Cons
- Strong spearmint scent
Medela Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap
If you are a breastfeeding/ pumping mom this is likely the best baby bottle washing soap for you.
Medela focuses on the breastfeeding needs and goals of moms.
It cleans residue that’s up to 3 days old effectively and efficiently.
Medela clinically tests its products under physician supervision to ensure it doesn’t irritate the skin.
It’s a no-scrub soap and works for nursing apparel like pump and nursing bras too.
- SAFE AND HYPOALLERGENIC CLEANER: Medela’s Quick Clean Breast Milk Removal Soap is a safe and hypoallergenic cleaner for breast pump parts, bottles, nipples, intimate apparel, and more.
Pros
- Clinically tested
- Breastfeeding oriented
- Hypoallergenic
- Comes with micro cleaning bags for travel
Cons
- Requires bottles be soaked in hot water – so more time consuming
Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, Citrus Orange
Dr. Bronner’s is concentrated so you end up having more product than it seems. Just like number 1 on the list this soap is certified fair trade and organic.
Plus the citrus orange is a favorite for moms to utilize for washing all kinds of things from skin and hair to clothes and even makeup brushes.
Apparently, it makes a great makeup remover also which is perfect for busy moms.
- MADE WITH ORGANIC OILS & CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS: Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are made with over 90% organic ingredients. Over 70% of ingredients are certified fair trade, meaning ethical working conditions & fair prices.
Pros
- The smell is perfect for dishes and personal hygiene
- Concentrated and lasts a long time
- Can double as a gentle laundry detergent
Cons
- No foam
Best Plant-Based Ingredient Bottle Soap
Mongdies Eco-Friendly Liquid Soap
Mongdies Is a naturally clean product with a class one safe certification in kitchen detergent.
The natural surfactant is derived from coconut palm and contains botanical antimicrobial Rosa oil.
This dish soap doubles as a fruit and vegetable cleanser too. You can also use it to safely clean things like toys and high chairs.
Plus it leaves your skin soft with moisturizing EWG green level ingredients such as argan oil, olive oil, Hyaluronic acid, and Jeju flower complex
Pros
- Naturally organic
- Cleans fruit and vegetables
- Works well on breast pump components
- No synthetic fragrances or dyes
- No controversial additives like: animal raw materials or petroleum surfactants
Cons
- Slightly Expensive
Ecos Baby Bottle & Dish Wash Free & Clear
Ecos ingredients are free of toxins that are biodegradable. You don’t have to mix it with water, simply wet your bottle sponge with the soap and scrub before rinsing.
With a plant based formula derived from renewable coconut, this soap is effective, gentle, and free of synthetic fragrance.
Specifically formulated to work great with formula bottles and removing build up from small spaces like nipples and crevices.
Pros
- Removes built up formula residue well
- Plant based ingredients
- Great price
Cons
- Only has 1 size and 1 scent (which might be considered a pro if you don’t like having to decide on a bunch of different variations)
Seventh Generation Dish Soap Liquid, Fresh Lavender Scent
Seventh Generation Dish Soap Liquid is a U.S. EPA Safer Choice certified product meaning it contains safer ingredients for human health and the environment.
This liquid cleanser works well removing grease and tough residue despite containing no harsh chemicals.
It is cost effective, cleans tough residue, and some moms even say it’s comparable to Dawn dish soap in terms of ability.
- Plant-based formula soap dish liquid fights grease and powers through tough, dried-on food
Pros
- Biodegradable
- U.S. EPA Safer Choice certified
- Affordable and cost effective
- Lavender scent comes from 100% essential oils and botanical ingredients
Cons
- Multiple packaging complaints online stating the product did not come as advertised
Best European Dish Soap For Bottles
Biolindo Baby Anthyllis Dish Soap
Biolindo Baby Anthyllis Dish Soap is only available for my European readers unfortunately for us but great for you!
They offer free delivery to anyone located in Austria (where they are located). This baby bottle dish soap dissolves stubborn food and grease residue in a flash, it’s extra mild, tested for heavy metals, and is packed by hand.
It’s dermatologically tested and free of synthetic chemicals.
Biolindo ships to most Western European countries and some others. You can check the Biolindo website to see if they deliver to your location
Pros
- Tested for heavy metals
- Extra gentle in skin
- Tested by dermatologists
- Highly biodegradable
Cons
- They don’t ship to the US
Egreeno Liquid Soap By 4Seasons
4Seasons Baby Anthyllis Liquid Soap is formulated by an organic food market located in Athens Greece. They ship to Western and Central Europe.
This mild antibacterial liquid dishwashing soap cleans bottles and dishes naturally and efficiently.
It creates a rich foam and a viscous composition that protects skin.
Pediatrician and ecologist approved and tested by dermatologists.
If you’re outside of the US, check them out here.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Fruity fragrance
- Approved by ecologists and pediatricians
- Vegan plant based
Cons
- Not available in the US
Truly Free Dishwasher Soap
Do you prefer running your bottles through the dishwasher rather than just hand washing every time? Sometimes it’s easier for me to just clean a bunch at once.
Truly Free Dishwasher Soap has zero toxic chemicals so it’s safe for the whole family. It uses enzymes that digest organic elements on your bottles.
THIS IS OUR FAVORITE- GET YOURS HERE
Leaves dishes clear with no water spots.
Pros
- Great for washing loads of bottles at once in the dishwasher
- Can still be used to hand wash
- Refill pouches are eco friendly
- Offers free membership with lots of discounts!
Cons
- Not a lot of reviews available yet
- The dishwasher soap wasn’t available on Amazon
Grab Green Baby Bottle & Dish Soap – Gentle Bamboo
Grab Green Baby Bottle & Dish Soap is made in the USA, naturally formulated, and cruelty free.
This soap cleans baby’s bottles with no harmful chemicals. No SLS, SLES, Dyes, Phosphates, Phthalates or Parabens at all.
The lovely citrus aroma is derived from a blend of aurantium, fruit oils, and other natural elements.
The scent is derived from essential oils like bergamot, cypress and mandarin.
- Contains: 3- 16 Ounce Bottles of Grab Green Natural Gentle Bamboo Baby Bottle and Dish Soap
Pros
- American made (Pro for Americans)
- No film or residue ever
- Scent is mild
Cons
- Doesn’t seem to work well on oils
Milton Baby Bottle Cleaner by Boots
Boots is a pharmacy-led company located in the UK with over 2,200 locations selling various health and beauty products.
Milton Baby Bottle Cleaner is one of their eco friendly products specifically designed to remove formula and breast milk residue.
It’s dermatologically tested, 100% biodegradable, formulated for sensitive skin, and plant based.
This product comes in a concentrated gel so it lasts a really long time.
Pros
- Dermatologically formulated
- Paraben free
- Fragrance free
- Affordable and cost effective
Cons
- Not available in the US
Best Cost Effective Bottle Soap
Better Life Natural Dish Soap
This natural product is affordable and comes in 3 varieties: unscented, lemon mint, and pomegranate.
It’s much more affordable then a lot of other brands as you get 22oz for less than $7.
Better Life is hypoallergenic, sulfate free, and contains vitamin E and aloe to soothe and moisturize your skin as you wash.
- GREASE-KICKING FORMULA - This powerful dish soap liquid is designed to clean even your toughest, greasiest messes in the kitchen. Removes grease, grime and food residue.
Pros
- Cost effective
- Hypoallergenic
- Moisturizing
Cons
- A handful of packaging complaints online
Attitude Baby Dish Soap Pink Grapefruit
This health conscious soap is the top recommendation by the Environmental Working Group.
Contrary to most eco cleansers, this product actually does foam. Even when heavily diluted it lathers quite well meaning it works great, lasts longer, and is cost effective.
The citrus scent is organic meaning it doubles as a cleanser for kids and pets.
A lot of parents really like the grapefruit smell however some complained about the lack of a foil protector between the opening and lid.
- Ingredients: Aqua (>30%), Coco Glucoside (<5%), Myristyl Glucoside (<5%), Lauryl Glucoside (<5%), Sodium Chloride (<5%), Sodium Gluconate (<5%), Sodium Citrate (<5%), Allyl Caproate (Sweet Fruit) (<5%), Ethylene Brassylate (Herbal) (<5%), Methyldihydrojasmonate (Jasmin) (<5%).
Pros
- Endorsed by the EWG
- Actually foams and lathers
- Little goes a long way
Cons
- There are no tin foil protectors under the caps meaning they have the potential to leak in transport
Dreft Baby Bottle and Dish Soap – Removes Milk Film & Odor, Plant Based
Dreft Baby Bottle and Dish Soap is formulated specifically to clean babies’ drinking products including bottles, breast pumps, pacifiers, sippy cups, and silicone bibs.
It cleans gently because it is 90% plant based with non toxic chemicals.
Dreft soap is tested by dermatologists to ensure it’s safe for baby and skin. It’s free of dyes and chemicals with no fragrance.
Some parents complained the soap itself is too thin with no suds so it’s hard to indicate exactly when something is completely rinsed off.
Other parents praised this quality stating they liked there was no residue.
- BABY SOAP: Cleans baby bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, breast pump components, utensils, silicone bibs, whole family's dishes and more!
Pros
- No smells or fragrance
- USDA Certified Biobased Product
- 90% plant based
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Very thin consistency
- Not good for washing grease or grime off regular dishes
Dr. Bronner’s Organic Castile Liquid Soap, Lavender
With similar qualities as #1 and #6 on this list, but it has the calming element of lavender essential oils.
Lavender is the most popular oil in aromatherapy because it’s so beneficial.
For example, it helps with relaxation and is said to treat fungal infections, nausea, insomnia, eczema, and even menstrual cramps.
The reason lavender is so amazing for washing baby bottles is because it’s also antiseptic, antibacterial and antimicrobial!
- MADE WITH ORGANIC OILS & CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS: Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are made with over 90% organic ingredients. Over 70% of ingredients are certified fair trade, meaning ethical working conditions & fair prices.
Pros
- Effective and efficient
- Gentle and doesn’t leave residue
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Long lasting
- Aromatic
Cons
- Doesn’t foam well
- Not formulated for use on heavy duty dirty dishes
FAQ
Can you wash bottles with Dawn dish soap?
Yes, you can wash your baby bottles with Dawn dish soap but some parents are concerned about the harsh chemicals that can irritate a baby’s delicate skin.
That’s why they might turn to an all natural cleanser like the ones on this list.
What is the best soap to clean baby bottles?
The best soap to clean bottles would be gentle, non toxic, and without any harsh chemicals.
For best results use a bottle brush. Being a mom or dad is no easy task, but the best thing you can do (if you can) is rinse bottles and accessories as soon as possible to avoid tough build up, grease, and bacterial/mold growth.
This way you don’t need a heavy duty detergent.
Do you need special soap for baby bottles?
No you do not need a special soap for baby bottles, but many parents prefer to use something specifically designed to do so.
Many parents use the same exact dish soap for bottles, sippy’s, etc that they have been using for years.
Long before the baby was born. On the other hand it is true that harsh chemicals are harmful ingredients for babies. It is a personal choice for the parent.
Can I use Dawn dish soap to wash my baby bottles?
Is Dawn the best choice for baby products? Probably not.
But yes, you can wash your plastic bottles with Dawn dish soap, however some parents are concerned about the harsh chemicals used that can irritate a baby’s delicate skin.
That’s why some might turn to an all natural cleanser alternative.
Can I use Mrs Meyers dish soap for baby bottles?
Many people do use Mrs Meyers dish soap for all their dishware including baby bottles and accessories. It works great and is more gentle than Dawn.
What are the toxic ingredients to avoid in soap?
We want our dishes to be clean but at what cost?
Are we removing bacteria and trading it for something just as bad or worse?
Here is the list of toxic chemicals to look out for when buying dish soap:
Parabens (methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl- etc)
Parabens are commonly used in soap products because it inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold.
That’s a good thing however this chemical is actually an endocrine disruptor. What does that mean?
Well endocrines are hormones present in all our bodies and parabens have the capacity to alter them causing potential disruption to our normal bodily functions.
Synthetic Flavor or Fragrance
Synthetic tastes and smells are engineered by man and can contain a number of combinations of over 3000 stock chemical ingredients.
These ingredients may include hormone disruptors and allergens.
These formulas are unfortunately federally protected under a law called “classification of trade secrets”.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine is a synthetic detergent and surfactant.
It is used for its wetting, spreading, and foaming qualities.
This chemical is not as toxic as some of the others however it is a known allergen. Possible reactions include but are not limited to: tightness
itchiness, inflammation, and rash.
Diethanolamine
Diethanolamine is used in soaps as a die-casting operator and corrosion inhibitor.
This chemical is very concerning because it’s been shown to be associated with kidney and liver cancer.
Furthermore, short term inhalation exposure can cause irritation of the throat and nose. It can also significantly irritate your skin especially if you’re already sensitive. Baby’s skin is already sensitive because they are so little!
Butylatedhydroxy Anisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene
These chemicals are synthetic antioxidants that are sometimes added to soap as a preservative. They significantly extend the products shelf life however it’s toxic to humans especially babies. You might want to avoid using baby bottle dish soap with Butylatedhydroxy Anisole or Butylated Hydroxytoluene because they are known carcinogens, hormone disruptors and might result in liver damage.
We really hope this article helped you decide which dish soap is best for your baby bottles and products. Whether you’re in the US, UK, or another area of Europe you can find a soap review here! Happy washing!