Why Are People Using Essential Oils In Their Dishwashers And Does It Work

In recent years, a growing number of home enthusiasts have started adding a few drops of essential oil to their dishwasher cycles. At first glance, the idea may seem unusual—after all, dishwashers are designed for cleaning dishes with detergent, not aromatherapy. Yet, social media platforms like Pinterest and TikTok are filled with posts praising the fresh scent and perceived cleaning boost that essential oils provide. But is this trend based on real benefits, or is it just another viral myth? More importantly, can you actually use essential oils in your dishwasher without causing damage?

The answer isn't straightforward. While essential oils can enhance fragrance and offer mild antimicrobial properties, they also carry risks when used improperly. This article explores the reasons behind the trend, evaluates its effectiveness, and provides clear guidance on safe usage.

Why Are People Adding Essential Oils to Dishwashers?

The appeal of using essential oils in dishwashers stems from several perceived advantages. Most users are drawn to natural alternatives, especially those seeking to reduce exposure to synthetic fragrances and chemicals commonly found in commercial detergents. Essential oils like lemon, tea tree, and eucalyptus are celebrated for their clean, uplifting scents and potential antibacterial qualities, making them attractive candidates for household cleaning routines.

One primary motivation is odor control. Over time, dishwashers can develop musty or stale smells due to food debris trapped in filters, seals, or spray arms. A few drops of citrus oil—particularly lemon or orange—are believed to neutralize these odors and leave dishes smelling fresher after washing. Unlike artificial fragrances, essential oils are seen as a “cleaner” way to achieve this effect.

Additionally, some users report that essential oils help cut through grease or improve the shine of glassware. Citrus oils contain d-limonene, a natural solvent found in many eco-friendly degreasers. This compound can break down light grease films, which may explain anecdotal claims of improved cleaning performance.

Tip: If you're experimenting with essential oils, always use 100% pure, undiluted oils without added carriers or alcohol, which can leave residues.

Do Essential Oils Actually Work in Dishwashers?

The effectiveness of essential oils in dishwashers depends on what you’re hoping to achieve. Let’s break it down by function:

• Fragrance enhancement: Yes, essential oils can make your dishwasher—and the resulting dishes—smell noticeably better. The heat and steam of the wash cycle help disperse the aroma, leaving cabinets and kitchen air more pleasant.
• Odor elimination: Moderately effective. Oils like tea tree, lemon, and peppermint have antimicrobial properties that may help suppress mold and bacteria growth in damp areas of the dishwasher. However, they don’t replace deep cleaning.
• Cleaning power: Limited. While d-limonene in citrus oils has degreasing abilities, the amount delivered via a few drops in a dishwasher is negligible compared to dedicated detergents. Don’t expect essential oils to remove baked-on food or sanitize dishes on their own.
• Shine improvement: Anecdotal at best. Some users claim citrus oils boost the sparkle of glasses, but this is likely due to the oil interacting with water minerals rather than any significant polishing effect.

It's important to distinguish between sensory benefits and actual cleaning performance. Essential oils may make your kitchen smell great, but they should never be considered a substitute for proper dishwasher detergent.

“Essential oils can support a cleaner-smelling appliance, but they’re not a cleaning agent. Relying on them alone risks poor hygiene and residue buildup.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Environmental Health Scientist

How to Use Essential Oils Safely (If You Choose To)

If you decide to try essential oils in your dishwasher, doing so safely is critical. Modern dishwashers are precision machines with sensitive components, including rubber gaskets, sensors, and filtration systems. Introducing foreign substances like oils—even natural ones—can lead to long-term issues.

Oils are hydrophobic and can accumulate over time, forming a film inside the machine. This residue may coat heating elements, clog spray arms, or degrade rubber seals, potentially leading to leaks or mechanical failure. Additionally, mixing essential oils with certain detergents could cause undesirable chemical reactions or excessive sudsing, which disrupts the wash cycle.

To minimize risk, follow this step-by-step method:

1. Choose the right oil: Stick to single-note, pure essential oils such as lemon, orange, tea tree, or lavender. Avoid blends with carrier oils (like almond or jojoba), which increase residue risk.
2. Use minimal quantity: Never exceed 3–5 drops per load. More is not better and increases the chance of buildup.
3. Add oil correctly: Place drops directly into the rinse aid dispenser, not the detergent compartment. The rinse aid cycle disperses liquid later in the process, reducing interaction with detergent and lowering residue formation.
4. Monitor your machine: After several uses, inspect the door gasket, filter, and interior walls for oily residue. Wipe down surfaces monthly if needed.
5. Alternate with deep cleans: Run a monthly empty cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner (e.g., white vinegar or a commercial cleaner) to prevent buildup.

Tip: Never pour essential oils directly onto dishes or into the main detergent tray. This increases the risk of oil spotting on glassware and utensils.

Checklist: Safe Essential Oil Use in Dishwashers

Before incorporating essential oils into your routine, review this checklist to ensure safety and effectiveness:

• ☑ Use only 100% pure essential oils (no additives)
• ☑ Limit to 3–5 drops per cycle
• ☑ Add oil to the rinse aid compartment only
• ☑ Avoid oils with high resin content (e.g., pine, frankincense)
• ☑ Run a maintenance cycle monthly using vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner
• ☑ Inspect seals and spray arms every 2–3 months for residue
• ☑ Discontinue use if you notice spots, film, or reduced performance

Risks and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite their natural origin, essential oils are potent substances that require careful handling. Misuse in appliances can lead to costly repairs or shortened lifespan. Here are common pitfalls:

Mistake	Risk	Safe Alternative
Adding oils to detergent compartment	Reaction with enzymes, excess suds, poor cleaning	Use rinse aid dispenser only
Using more than 5 drops	Oil buildup on dishes and machine parts	Stick to 3–5 drops max
Using oils with carrier bases	Film on glassware, sticky residue	Only pure essential oils
Running frequent oil-enhanced cycles	Accelerated wear on rubber seals	Limited to once per week max
Ignoring manufacturer guidelines	Voided warranty or component damage	Check user manual before use

Another overlooked issue is compatibility with rinse aid. Many modern rinse aids are formulated to work with specific water conditions and surfactant levels. Introducing essential oils may interfere with sheeting action, leading to water spots or streaks on dishes. If you notice decreased drying performance, stop using oils immediately.

Real-World Example: A Cautionary Tale

Sarah, a wellness blogger from Portland, began using lemon essential oil in her dishwasher after seeing the trend online. She added 5 drops to the rinse aid compartment twice a week for three months, thrilled by the fresh scent. However, she soon noticed a hazy film on her wine glasses and a faint oily feel on silverware.

Upon inspection, she discovered a sticky residue around the door gasket and inside the filter. A technician diagnosed early seal degradation and recommended a professional cleaning. Sarah discontinued oil use and now runs a vinegar cycle monthly to maintain freshness—without risking her machine.

Her experience highlights an important truth: even natural products can cause harm when used outside their intended purpose. What starts as a simple hack can become a maintenance headache.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix essential oils with my regular dishwasher detergent?

No. Mixing essential oils directly with detergent can cause foaming, reduce cleaning efficiency, or create chemical byproducts. Always keep them separate and use oils only in the rinse aid dispenser if at all.

Are there dishwasher-safe essential oil products available?

Some companies now sell “dishwasher-safe” essential oil blends specifically formulated to minimize residue. These often include solubilizers to disperse the oil more evenly. While safer than pure oils, they should still be used sparingly and with caution.

What’s a safer alternative to using essential oils?

For odor control, place a small bowl of baking soda in the bottom rack between cycles. For freshness, run a monthly cleaning cycle with one cup of white vinegar placed upright on the top rack. Both methods are non-abrasive, residue-free, and safe for all dishwasher models.

Conclusion: Weighing Benefits Against Risks

The trend of using essential oils in dishwashers taps into a legitimate desire for natural, pleasant-smelling homes. There’s no denying that a citrus-scented kitchen feels refreshing. However, the practical benefits are largely aromatic, with minimal impact on actual cleaning performance.

More importantly, the risks—residue buildup, damaged seals, voided warranties—often outweigh the rewards. While cautious, limited use may be acceptable for some, it’s not a universally recommended practice. Appliance manufacturers generally advise against introducing any substance not explicitly designed for dishwashers.

If your goal is a fresher machine, focus on proven methods: regular filter cleaning, monthly vinegar rinses, and proper loading techniques. These approaches are safer, more effective, and won’t jeopardize your appliance’s longevity.

🚀 Take action today: Skip the essential oils and run a simple cleaning cycle with vinegar instead. Your dishwasher—and your dishes—will thank you.