Detergents are man-made degreasing agents. To put the normal label to it I am talking about Washing up liquid. Many washing-up detergents also contain phosphates, which are very damaging to the life in ponds and rivers - phosphates prevent bacteria breaking down the effluents and returning them to the soil in a useful form. Washing-up detergents can dry up the skin and cause vomiting and diarrhea if swallowed neat. Washing-up detergents also contain a drying agent, which may increase the body's absorption of the pesticide residues that are present in a great many foods.
Alternative
Washing soda crystals with a little soap dissolved in very hot water will get dishes clean with much less damage to the environment. In soft-water areas you will not need the soda crystals, and perhaps not even the soap, except for greasy items.
If you do want to use a washing-up liquid, buy one that is phosphate-free and use much less than you do at present; rinse everything with hot water after washing.
Having said all this washing up liquid used sensibly as a household cleaner is a better alternative to some commercial heavy duty cleaners
