Is Your Dishwasher Making You Sick? New Research Raises Red Flags

Q: What is the new health concern linked to using dishwashers?

A: Recent research from the University of Queensland has found that dishwashers may release large amounts of microplastics into the environment. Washing plastic containers and utensils in a dishwasher exposes them to high heat and abrasive action, which causes tiny plastic particles to break off. These particles can end up in your food, water, or body.

Q: How many microplastics are released from a single dishwasher cycle?

A: The study found that one dishwasher load containing plastic kitchenware could release around 920,000 micro and nano plastic particles into the wastewater system per wash. That adds up to 33 million particles per household each year.

Q: Why are microplastics a problem for health?

A: Microplastics are plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimetres. They don’t biodegrade and instead break down into smaller particles that can persist in the environment and accumulate in food chains. Humans and animals can ingest or inhale them. Some studies, including one published in the New England Journal of Medicine, have linked microplastic exposure to heart disease, strokes, and other serious health problems.

Q: Is it just plastic containers that are a problem, or the dishwasher itself?

A: Both can be an issue. Washing plastic items in dishwashers is a key source of microplastics. But there’s more. A separate study has shown that dishwasher detergents and rinse aids may contain chemicals like alcohol ethoxylates that can harm your gut lining, potentially causing leaky gut syndrome. This can trigger inflammation and chronic conditions such as allergies, digestive issues, and even mental health concerns.

Q: Do commercial dishwashers pose a bigger risk?

A: Yes. Commercial dishwashers in restaurants use higher pressure and temperature, and studies have shown that residues of harmful rinse aids can remain on dishes. This means that even a seemingly clean plate might expose you to chemicals that damage the gut lining.

Q: Are these chemicals found in home dishwashers too?

A: Yes. While the research focused on commercial dishwashers, alcohol ethoxylates are commonly found in household dishwasher detergents, soaps, and rinse aids. So, there’s reason to be cautious even at home.

Q: What can I do to reduce health risks from using a dishwasher?

A: Here are a few practical tips:

Handwash plastic items instead of putting them in the dishwasher.
Switch to eco-friendly materials like glass, ceramic, or stainless steel for storage and cooking.
Avoid plastic containers with wear and tear, especially if they’ve been through the dishwasher.
Use non-toxic dishwasher detergent alternatives. You can make your own using:
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup washing soda
- ½ cup powdered citric acid
- ½ cup kosher salt
For a non-toxic rinse aid, try white vinegar instead of chemical products.
Don’t overload your dishwasher and always rinse sensitive items by hand.

Q: Are there other hidden sources of microplastics in my home?

A: Yes. Another major source is synthetic clothing, which sheds plastic fibres during washing. Installing a washing machine filter and choosing natural fibres like cotton and linen can help reduce this risk.

Q: Should I stop using my dishwasher?

A: Not necessarily. The dishwasher itself isn’t the problem—it’s how and what you use it for. Avoid dishwashing plastic items and steer clear of harsh chemical detergents. Making small changes in your routine can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful substances.

Final Thought

As Dr Elvis Okoffo from the University of Queensland puts it, “Seemingly harmless everyday actions can have cumulative environmental consequences.” That includes how we clean our dishes.

Making informed, simple swaps—like avoiding plastic in the dishwasher and switching to natural cleaning products—can help protect your health and reduce your impact on the environment.

References:

University of Queensland research on dishwasher-related microplastic release
ACS ES&T Water journal report
New England Journal of Medicine study on microplastics and cardiovascular health
Heart & Soil Supplements: Issue #46 on dishwasher chemicals and leaky gut