The New York Times’ Wirecutter put our mighty little pods to the test, and their review is in: they’re big fans. Let’s dive into why this powerhouse detergent has earned high marks, and how it stacks up to other products on the market.
What Makes Dropps UltraWash Plus a Standout?
Wirecutter gave Dropps UltraWash Plus a glowing review for its ability to tackle tough messes while being gentle on the planet. Here’s what stood out to them:
✅ Serious Cleaning Power
UltraWash Plus was praised for eliminating “the grossest stuff,” including “egg yolk on prestained porcelain tiles and buffing crusty casserole dishes to their formerly shiny selves.” In the test, Dropps’ pods also easily washed away splatters of meat sauce, avocado, burnt milk, and Bloody Mary mix.
In fact, UltraWash Plus performed far better than other sustainable brands Wirecutter tested, as well as efficacious powders. It even gave leading traditional detergents like Cascade ActionPacs a run for their money.
Photo cred: Andrea Barnes/NYT Wirecutter
✅ Sustainable Design
While big-brand detergents often rely on harsh chemicals to get the job done, Dropps takes a more sustainable approach—without compromising performance.
UltraWash Plus is made without artificial dyes, parabens, phosphates, phthalates, or chlorine bleach. It strikes a balance between power and responsibility using the same multi-chambered technology as traditional pods. But instead of the solely petroleum-based PVA/PVOH film used by big brands, UltraWash Plus uses a partially biobased PVA/PVOH film with the goal of offering a detergent made from entirely biobased film in the future.
UltraWash Plus is the first ever USDA Certified Biobased multi-chamber dishwasher detergent product, which means that a majority of its ingredients derived from renewable resources rather than petroleum-based ones. Dropps also uses ingredients found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice list, and comes in recyclable paperboard packaging. As Wirecutter suggests, it’s a choice you can feel good about every time you load the dishwasher.
✅ Convenience Meets Versatility
Like all Dropps detergents, UltraWash Plus pods are pre-measured and mess-free. This multitasking formula also has a built-in rinse aid, so you don’t need to add one to your load. Plus, it’s made for all dishwashers. But perhaps the most convenient part, according to Wirecutter, is that there’s no pre-rinsing required, “a step that no good detergent should ever require,” the tester notes.
Photo cred: Andrea Barnes/NYT Wirecutter
Why Does It Work So Well?
The secret is in the multichamber design. Each pod contains a blend of active enzymes, grease-cutting agents, and rinse-aid boosters that activate at different times during the wash cycle. This ensures a thorough clean, even for dishes that have been sitting in the sink for a little too long.
So if you’re tired of scrubbing pans after the dishwasher lets you down, Dropps UltraWash Plus is the upgrade your kitchen needs. As this Wirecutter review shows, our product offers a rare trifecta of performance, sustainability, and convenience.
Make the switch. Your dishes (and the planet) will thank you.