For decades, dish soaps and detergents have been a part of every kitchen. We scrub, rinse, and dry without thinking twice about what’s left behind. But recent scientific research is beginning to raise serious questions about how safe these everyday products really are.
The Research: Damage to the Gut Barrier
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in 2022 found that chemicals commonly found in dishwasher detergents and rinse aids can damage the gut’s epithelial barrier - the thin, protective lining that keeps harmful substances out of the bloodstream and helps regulate inflammation.
The researchers discovered that certain detergent ingredients, even when diluted to levels similar to what might be left as residue on dishes, were able to disrupt this barrier. The result: tiny “holes” in the gut lining, allowing unwanted substances to pass through, potentially leading to inflammation and long-term health issues.
Source: PubMed, J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2022;151(2):469-484. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2022.10.020
Why This Matters in Everyday Life
Most of us assume soap residues are washed away completely. But scientists warn that detergent and rinse aid residues don’t always disappear. Trace amounts can cling to plates, glasses, and cutlery - and build up over time with repeated exposure.
That means with every meal, your family could be ingesting small amounts of harsh chemicals without realising it. For those with sensitive systems — children, people with eczema, or those prone to gut issues - the risk may be even higher.
Beyond Gut Health: Skin and Irritation Risks
The gut isn’t the only concern. Dermatologists have long warned that the surfactants in many dish soaps are harsh on the skin, stripping away natural oils and triggering irritation or flare-ups for those with sensitive skin.
It’s no surprise that dishwashing is one of the leading triggers for hand eczema worldwide.
What Can You Do?
The research doesn’t mean you should stop cleaning your dishes — but it does suggest we need to be more thoughtful about how we do it.
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Choose products with simple, natural ingredients instead of synthetic surfactants.
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Avoid plastic-packaged liquids that rely on the same chemical formulas flagged in the research.
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Look for solid dish bars that use coconut oil, baking soda, and natural cleansers — ingredients that are effective yet biodegradable and safe for long-term use.
The Safer Alternative: Dish Bars
That’s where products like the CANORI Dish Bar come in. Instead of synthetic surfactants and plastic packaging, CANORI bars are made from coconut-derived cleansers, baking soda, and natural sea salt. They’re biodegradable, gentle on skin, and leave dishes sparkling without hidden residues.
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🌿 Natural, plant-based ingredients
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🛡️ No harsh surfactants or hidden chemicals
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✨ Safe for sensitive skin
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♻️ Plastic-free and zero-waste
The Bottom Line
The research is clear: the chemicals we take for granted in everyday dish soaps and detergents may not be as safe as we once thought. From weakening the gut barrier to irritating the skin, the risks are becoming harder to ignore.
The good news? Safer, simpler alternatives exist. By making the switch to natural dish bars, you can protect your health, your home, and the planet — one wash at a time.
👉 Shop the CANORI Dish Bar and experience a cleaner way to clean.