Looking for an eco-friendly dish soap but can’t decide between Seventh Generation and Mrs. Meyer’s? Both brands promise plant-powered cleaning, but their formulas differ in key ways. Let’s break down their ingredients, cleaning power, and environmental impact to help you choose the best option for your kitchen.
In this comparison, we’ll analyze what’s really inside these popular dish soaps. Check out both options on Amazon: Seventh Generation Free & Clear and Mrs. Meyer’s Basil. For more cleaning product insights, visit our guides on soap dish holders and the best dish soaps.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Seventh Generation | Mrs. Meyer’s |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance | Fragrance-free options available | Strong essential oil scents |
| Main Surfactant | Coco-glucoside (gentler) | Sodium lauryl sulfate (stronger cleaner) |
| Eco-Certifications | USDA Biobased, EPA Safer Choice | Leaping Bunny (cruelty-free) |
| Price Point | $$ | $$ |
| Best For | Sensitive skin, allergy sufferers | Those who prefer scented cleaning |
Ingredient Deep Dive
Seventh Generation Liquid Dish Soap Ingredients
Typical ingredients in their Free & Clear formula:
- Primary cleansers: Coco-glucoside (from coconut), sodium lauryl sulfate
- Preservatives: Phenoxyethanol (plant-derived)
- pH adjusters: Citric acid
- Other: Glycerin (moisturizing)
What’s NOT in it:
- Synthetic dyes
- Artificial fragrances
- Phosphates
- Parabens
Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Dish Soap Ingredients
Basil-scented version contains:
- Primary cleansers: Sodium lauryl sulfate (from coconut or palm)
- Fragrance: Essential oils and “fragrance” (undisclosed blend)
- Preservatives: Methylisothiazolinone (potential irritant)
- Other: Aloe vera, olive oil (in some varieties)
What’s NOT in it:
- Phthalates (in most varieties)
- Artificial colors
- Animal-derived ingredients
Cleaning Performance Comparison
Grease-Cutting Ability
- Mrs. Meyer’s: 8/10 (stronger surfactants cut through grease faster)
- Seventh Gen: 7/10 (effective but may require more product)
Suds & Lather
- Mrs. Meyer’s: Rich, long-lasting foam
- Seventh Gen: Moderate suds (designed to rinse cleaner)
Scent Experience
- Mrs. Meyer’s: Strong herbal scents (basil, lavender, etc.)
- Seventh Gen: Unscented or very mild natural fragrances
Safety & Environmental Impact
Skin Safety
- Better for sensitive skin: Seventh Generation (fewer potential irritants)
- Potential irritants: Mrs. Meyer’s contains methylisothiazolinone (a preservative some react to)
Eco-Friendliness
Seventh Generation wins on:
- USDA Certified Biobased (97%)
- EPA Safer Choice certified
- More transparent ingredient disclosure
Mrs. Meyer’s advantages:
- Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified)
- Essential oil scents vs. synthetic fragrances
Personal Experience: 30-Day Test
After using both for a month:
Seventh Generation:
- Best for my eczema-prone hands
- Required slightly more scrubbing for baked-on food
- Preferred the unscented version for cookware
Mrs. Meyer’s:
- Loved the basil scent (but my spouse found it overpowering)
- Created more suds (felt “cleaner” psychologically)
- Left slight residue on glassware
Which Should You Choose?
Pick Seventh Generation If:
✔ You have sensitive skin or allergies
✔ You prefer fragrance-free products
✔ Ingredient transparency matters most
Buy Seventh Generation on Amazon
Choose Mrs. Meyer’s If:
✔ You enjoy aromatic cleaning experiences
✔ You want stronger initial grease-cutting
✔ Cruelty-free status is a priority
FAQ
1. Which is more natural?
Both use plant-derived ingredients, but Seventh Generation has stricter standards (USDA Biobased certification).
2. Are these septic-safe?
Yes, both are safe for septic systems when used as directed.
3. Which lasts longer?
Mrs. Meyer’s is more concentrated, but Seventh Generation’s Free & Clear requires less product per wash.
4. Can I use these for handwashing delicates?
Yes, both are gentle enough for handwashing when diluted.
The Verdict
For health-conscious buyers, Seventh Generation’s cleaner formula wins. For those who prioritize sensory experience, Mrs. Meyer’s offers delightful scents. Both represent good eco-friendly choices compared to conventional dish soaps.
For more cleaning product guidance, check out our dish soap comparison guide and soap storage solutions.
Which eco-friendly dish soap do you prefer? Share your experiences below!
