Phosphorus Detergent Information > What the law says about phosphorus

What the law says about phosphorus*

Phosphorus in detergents IS and has been a problem for Washington State and its waters. Laundry detergent containing phosphorus has been banned since 1994. Major manufacturers in the United States made the switch in laundry soaps to help keep waters clean. The same is true for automatic dishwasher soaps as of July 1, 2010, when Washington retailers may only sell low- and no-phosphate automatic dishwasher detergents for residential use. The new law also goes into effect in 16 states on that date.

The law says that Washington will stop the distribution and sale of automatic dishwasher detergents that contain more than 0.5 percent phosphorus on July 1, 2010. Because soaps designed for washing dishes by hand are already phosphorus-free, the new requirement affects only soaps used in automatic dishwashers.

Unfortunately, some imported soaps, sold illegally, contain high levels of phosphorus. These soaps are costly to treat and contribute to pollution in our waters. So whether it is laundry soap or dishwasher soap, make the switch now to cleaner and safer alternatives.

History

In 1994: Washington State made it illegal to sell laundry detergents containing more than 0.5% phosphorus by weight and dishwashing detergents containing more than 8.7%.

Beginning July 1, 2008:  In Spokane and Whatcom Counties it became illegal to sell dishwashing detergent containing 0.5% phosphorus or more by weight.

In July 2010: The amount of phosphorus allowed statewide will be no more than 0.5%.

Washington State law regarding the phosphorus content in dishwashing detergent.

* This does not apply to the sale or distribution of detergents for commercial or industrial uses.

The 16 states with new dishwasher detergent laws starting on July 1, 2010 are: