ÖKO-TEST dish soap effectiveness evaluations

The German consumer organization ÖKO-TEST has conducted consecutive evaluations of manual dishwashing detergents, testing their ability to remove grease and their chemical compositions.

In an initial study of 26 products, researchers analyzed effectiveness, ingredient safety, and labeling accuracy. The results showed that most brands achieved only mediocre or weak ratings for grease removal. Only three products successfully managed tough grease, with two receiving a ‘very good’ overall rating. The Rewe private label Ja! Ultra Power and Sodasan Spülmittel Lemon & Lime were identified as top performers. The Fairy brand was noted for cleaning performance but received a lower score due to issues with its Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) labeling.

A subsequent evaluation of 25 detergents reaffirmed these findings. The study, which involved washing over 2,000 plates to target stubborn grease on heated metal surfaces, again identified Ja! Ultra Power and Sodasan Spülmittel Lemon & Lime as the only products to receive the highest ‘very good’ rating. The Rewe concentrate was specifically highlighted for its efficiency and economy.