Dishwasher soap rules go statewide

Beginning July 1, only low-phosphate dishwasher soaps can be sold in Washington.

The law applies to all 39 counties in the state. It’s part of phased-in legislation that took effect in Spokane and Whatcom counties in 2008.

Reducing phosphorus content in residential dishwasher soap to 0.5percent or less helps reduce algae growth in lakes and streams, which robs the water of oxygen, Washington Department of Ecology officials said. Wastewater treatment plants can filter out some, but not all, of the phosphorus.

Previously, dishwasher soap’s phosphorus content could be up to 8.7 percent.

Phosphate limits in laundry detergents have been in place since 1994. Soap intended for washing dishes by hand doesn’t contain phosphorus.

Dennis Griesing of the Soap and Detergent Association said the industry has been preparing for the new law for months.

Fifteen other states followed Washington with bans on high-phosphate soaps.

While July is the legal effective date in 16 states, “the new products are part of a nationwide rollout being undertaken in Canada as well as the United States,” Griesing said.