The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Dishwasher pods are beloved by all and popularfor good reason.

Are dishwasher pods really safe to use for your plumbing?

And do they clog up your pipes?

Loading a pod into the dishwasher

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Let’s talk about all things dishwasher pods.

What Are Dishwasher Pods Made Of?

Dishwasher podsare tiny plastic shells that are filled with detergent and other ingredients.

using homemade dishwasher pods

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

These ingredients are packaged inside a dissolvable plastic coating called polyvinyl alcohol, or PVA.

This synthetic material easily breaks apart during the wash cycle, releasing the cleanser inside the pod.

Will Dishwasher Pods Clog Pipes?

Now for the real question everyone is wondering: will dishwasher pods harm your pipes or clog them?

The answer is usually no, they don’t.

They are small enough where they won’t clog or block your pipes, so that’s a win.

Are Dishwasher Pods Safe?

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

PVA isn’t just used in dishwasher pods.

It also has medical, industrial and commercial applications.

While using dishwasher pods in your dishwasher is definitely safe, they arguably aren’t great for the environment.

This can be harmful for animals,especially birdsif they come in contact with the plastic.

While dishwasher pods are indeed easy to use, it’s important to use them the correct way.

you’re free to even make your ownhomemade dishwasher detergent!

Are laundry and dish pods biodegradable?

Not exactly, ASU study shows| ASU News.