The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Best Non-Toxic Dish Sponges in 2025
Updated:
Aug 28, 2025
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
Welpr Approved cleaning products are always free from:
- Harsh disinfectants and irritants: bleach, ammonia, sulfates, and quats
- Endocrine disruptors and preservatives: phthalates, parabens, BHA/BHT, triclosan
- Unnecessary additives: optical brighteners, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Undisclosed or hidden ingredients
Find Non-Toxic Dish Sponges
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Natural Kitchen Sponge (12 Pack) - Airnex
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$16.95
Product Details
- Made from biodegradable materials, helping you maintain a green kitchen.
- Porous structure allows quick drying, reducing the growth of bacteria.
- Unique S shape design ensures comfortable use without straining your hands.
- Non-scratch formula makes it safe for all dishware and surfaces.
- Compostable and recyclable components reduce waste effectively.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compostable and eco-friendly, reducing waste and benefiting the environment.
- Durable and long-lasting, maintaining good condition even after extended use.
- No unpleasant odors, even with prolonged use.
- Natural, plastic-free composition for a healthier home.
- Versatile dual-sided design for effective scrubbing and gentle cleaning.
Cons
- Some users may find the scrubber side a bit stiff and scratchy on hands.
- A few users noted that the scrubbing layer may detach after intensive use over time.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Cellulose, Coconut Husk
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Dual-Sided Loofah Dish Sponges (3 Pack) - Blueland
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$17.00
Product Details
- Plastic-free and compostable for a sustainable choice.
- Dual-sided design for effective cleaning and scrubbing.
- Reusable and durable, safe for dishwasher and machine washing.
- Hand-sewn with cotton thread, free of glues and adhesives.
- Industrially compostable, making it a planet-friendly option.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made from natural fibers, supporting a healthier planet and avoiding toxic plastics.
- Effective at scrubbing tough messes while remaining gentle on your dishes.
- Biodegradable and compostable, reducing waste effectively.
- Durable and long-lasting, ensuring fewer replacements and great value.
- Attractive design with a pleasant blue color, bringing eco-friendly charm to your kitchen.
Cons
- Some users noticed a mild odor after multiple uses, important for those sensitive to smells.
- A few reported occasional separation of sponge layers, which may affect durability for heavy users.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: 100% FSC-Certified Cellulose
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Save 20% on purchases on Rustic Strength.
Sustainable Wool Scrub - Rustic Strength
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
WELPR20
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$9.00
Product Details
- Acts as a durable, odor-resistant sponge alternative for face, body, dishes, and more.
- Naturally antimicrobial, antifungal, and quick-drying to prevent mildew and smells.
- Made from biodegradable wool that outlasts synthetic sponges without shedding microplastics.
- Grown and handmade on a regenerative farm using eco-friendly, climate-beneficial practices.
- Compostable at end of life for a zero-waste, planet-friendly clean.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Natural wool material offers a safe, non-toxic alternative to plastic dish brushes.
- Scrubs effectively while being gentle on hands and dishware.
- High-quality feel makes dishwashing more enjoyable for eco-conscious users.
Cons
- Durability and performance on tough, stuck-on food may vary depending on use.
Ingredients
Ingredients: 100% Regenerative Wool
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Reusable Ultra-Absorbent Swedish Dish Cloth (3 Pack) - Blueland
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.99
Product Details
- Combines the benefits of a sponge and cloth for versatile cleaning.
- Ideal for wiping countertops, appliances, sinks, tubs, tiles, and washing dishes.
- Absorbs up to 10 times its weight in water, replacing up to 1500 paper towels.
- Easy to clean, dishwasher and machine washable, quick-drying, and can be boiled for thorough cleaning.
- Made from all-natural cotton and plant cellulose offering a planet-friendly option.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly absorbent and effective for cleaning spills and surfaces.
- Durable and can be used multiple times by washing in the dishwasher.
- A great eco-friendly alternative that reduces paper towel waste.
- No unpleasant odor, unlike traditional sponges and cloths.
- Quick-drying, making them convenient for repeated use.
Cons
- May not completely replace paper towels for all tasks.
- Some users found the cloths smaller than expected.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: All-Natural Cotton, Plant Cellulose
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Walnut Scrubber Sponge (4 Pack) - Public Goods
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.95
Product Details
- Eco-friendly alternative, using natural, plant-based materials without harmful toxins.
- Hypoallergenic design ideal for tough cleaning tasks throughout your home.
- Delivers the scrubbing power of traditional sponges with a walnut-based abrasive.
- Sustainably sourced to offer a healthier and environmentally-conscious choice.
- Pairs well with plant-based dish soap for effective cleaning.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Biodegradable with no plastics, keeping it eco-friendly.
- Soft and durable, ensuring gentle cleaning without scratching.
- Sturdy and resistant to odors, maintaining freshness longer.
- No microplastics, making it a safer choice for health-conscious users.
Cons
- Some users may find they need to apply more pressure when scrubbing tough spots.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Walnut
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Bubble-Up Dish Soap Dispenser & Brush Set - Grove Co.
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$28.99
Product Details
- Tackle tough messes with powerful scrubbing for dishes and cookware.
- Simple to use with convenient foam generation from soap and water.
- Easy care with dishwasher-safe ceramic base and replaceable brush.
- Ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand for ease of use.
- Focus on sustainability with plant-based formulas and recyclable materials.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Features a convenient holder that promotes quick drying and cleanliness.
- Bristles are durable, making it effective for tough cleaning tasks.
- Includes an innovative dish soap dispenser feature, offering flexible use.
- Comes with an extra brush for added value and longevity.
- Stylishly designed to complement any kitchen setting.
Cons
- Some users found the bristles to be a bit stiff for intricate cleaning tasks.
- The brushes could be more evenly trimmed for a premium finish.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Ceramic, Bamboo
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Natural Coconut Scrubber Kitchen Sponge (6 Pack) - Grove Co.
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$24.99
Product Details
- Removes stubborn food messes effectively without scratching cookware, glassware, or countertops.
- Made from natural materials including coconut husk and plant-based cellulose for a sustainable clean.
- Dual-sided design combines a soft cellulose sponge with a tough coconut husk scourer.
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- Supports a sustainable lifestyle with cruelty-free and eco-friendly materials.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting performance.
- Environmentally friendly materials.
- Fresh coconut scent before use, no lingering odor after washing.
- Versatile cleaning with a soft absorbent side and a tough scrubbing side.
- Resists typical mildew smell found in other sponges.
Cons
- Some users found food particles may get caught and cause staining on the scrubber side.
- A few noticed the scrub part detaching with extensive use.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Coconut Husk & 100% Plant-Based Cellulose
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Dish Sponges
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.
Sources:
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects, Are antibacterial products with triclosan fueling bacterial resistance?, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, The Effects of Triclosan on Puberty and Thyroid Hormones in Male Wistar Rats, Triclosan is a potent inhibitor of estradiol and estrone sulfonation in sheep placenta, The in Vitro estrogenic activities of triclosan and triclocarban, Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water, Environmental Exposure of Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota to Triclosan and Triclocarban, Triclosan: Environmental Fate and Effects, Chemical Profile: Triclosan / Triclocarban, 5 Things to Know About Triclosan, Underarm Harm? Whats So Bad About Antiperspirants?, Some flame retardants and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban enhance the androgenic activity in vitro, Triclocarban Enhances Testosterone Action: A New Type of Endocrine Disruptor?, Triclosan, a commonly used bactericide found in human milk and in the aquatic environment in Sweden
1,4-Dioxane
1,4-Dioxane is a clear, water-soluble liquid that is primarily used as a solvent in chemical manufacturing and laboratory reagents. Other uses leverage its solvent properties, including cosmetics, detergents, and shampoos. However, manufacturers generally reduce 1,4-Dioxane to low levels in these products due to its potential health risks. Acute exposure can result in symptoms such as vertigo, drowsiness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage, and the substance is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. Notably, severe kidney and liver damage, CNS effects, and even death have been recorded after heavy or prolonged exposure.
Sources:
What Is 1,4-Dioxane in Laundry and Cleaning Products?, Effect of ethoxylation and lauryl alcohol on the self-assembly of sodium laurylsulfate: Significant structural and rheological transformation, Final Risk Evaluation for 1,4-Dioxane, Ongoing and Completed Chemical Risk Evaluations under TSCA, Preliminary Information on Manufacturing, Processing, Distribution, Use, and Disposal, TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW OF 1,4-DIOXANE, 15th Report on Carcinogens, 1,4-Dioxane, Determination of residual 1,4-dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents using headspace single-drop microextraction followed by gas chromatography–flame ionization detection, 1,4-Dioxane in Cosmetics: A Manufacturing Byproduct, An integrated assessment of the 1,4-dioxane cancer mode of action and threshold response in rodents, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Occurrence of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic raw materials and finished cosmetic products, Chemical Profile: 1,4-dioxane
Authors
Camille May, Product Curator
Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer
