Dropps bills its UltraWash Plus pods as the first biobased chambered dishwasher detergent pods. The pods have a biobased certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which ensures that the majority of its ingredients are made from biological products instead of petroleum. (For dishwasher detergent to qualify for certification, at least 58% of the formulation must not be made from petrochemicals.)
Dropps CEO Alastair Dorward explained to us that the company is focused on developing cleaning products that match those of big soap brands in efficacy while also prioritizing recyclability. The new pods, which Dropps designed to rival pods such as our top pick from Cascade, are no exception. Dropps UltraWash Plus utilizes the same chambered technology, separately packaging a powder detergent and liquid boosters using a film of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA/PVOH), a synthetic, water-soluble polymer.
While the majority of PVA/PVOH (which is considered safe but has its detractors) is petroleum-based, Dorward told us that the PVA/PVOH used in UltraWash Plus is partially biobased. Dropps is currently experimenting with various types of PVA/PVOH, and the company hopes to eventually offer a detergent pod made with entirely biobased PVA/PVOH.
The chambers in UltraWash Plus pods contain traditional enzymatic powder detergent, fast-acting liquid enzymes, and a liquid degreaser to break down oils and boost shine. Why the division? Enzymes, the main cleaning agent in dishwasher detergents, are sensitive and easily deactivated by bleaches and other chemicals. By isolating the cleaning agents within chambers, pods can use more potent cleaners in tandem.
We already like a lot of what Dropps is doing—it’s certainly doing more than many detergent companies that claim to be sustainable. Along with being USDA biobased certified, the company’s cleaning products contain zero dyes and synthetic fragrances. (The scented version of UltraWash Plus pods has a mild citrus fragrance that is naturally derived.) And as far as we know, these pods are the only multi-chambered pods available in a fragrance-free version. Dropps also uses ingredients found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice list, and its products come in recyclable cardboard packaging.
