Does Dishwashing Liquid kill bacteria?Updated 4 days ago

TL;DR: We don’t make antibacterial claims for Dishwashing Liquid. It’s a detergent that lifts grease and food soils so microbes rinse away. If you need sanitising, use heat (dishwasher “Sanitise”/very hot water) or a food-safe sanitiser.

So… does it kill bacteria?

No. Our Dishwashing Liquid is formulated to clean, not disinfect. Surfactants and enzymes loosen oils, proteins and starches so you can rinse them, and the microbes living in that residue, down the drain.

When you need sanitising

• Dishwasher: Use Dishwashing Tablets on a cycle with a final hot rinse (typically ≥65–70 °C) or the dedicated “Sanitise” option.
• Hand-washing: Wash with detergent, then rinse in the hottest water your hands and items safely tolerate, and air-dry (microbes dislike dry surfaces).
• Approved sanitisers: For baby items, illness, or food-safety needs, use a food-safe sanitiser as directed by the manufacturer.

Good washing-up habits

• Change sponges and cloths frequently; wash cloths on a hot cycle.
• Scrape first, wash with detergent, rinse well, then let items air-dry.
• Do not use Dishwashing Liquid in your dishwasher or with bleach, ammonia or other chemicals.