When it comes to tackling dirty dishes, choosing the right dish soap can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve tried many brands, but Dawn has always stood out as a favorite in my household. Recently, I decided to dig a little deeper and compare two of their most popular products: Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum.
Both claim to be excellent at cutting through grease and leaving your dishes sparkling clean, but are they really that different? And, more importantly, which one gives you the best value for your money?
In this blog, I’ll be sharing my personal experience using both Dawn Ultra and Platinum over the course of a few weeks. From cleaning power to versatility and cost-effectiveness, I’ve put them to the test in my own kitchen to help you decide which one is right for you.
If you’re someone who loves finding ways to make household chores easier, you might also enjoy my guide on Top Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap. It’s packed with tips on how to use dish soap beyond just washing dishes!
So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and let’s dive into this friendly head-to-head comparison of Dawn Ultra vs. Platinum. I promise to give you all the details you need to make an informed choice!
Overview of Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum
When it comes to dishwashing detergents, Dawn is one of the most trusted names out there. I’ve personally used both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum for several months, and here’s what I’ve learned about each product.
What is Dawn Ultra?
Dawn Ultra is marketed as a reliable, everyday dishwashing soap that’s tough on grease but gentle on your wallet. It’s designed to cut through grease with ease, and I’ve found it particularly effective for regular dishwashing tasks like cleaning plates, cups, and utensils.
One of the things I noticed is how little you need to use. A small drop goes a long way, which is great if you’re trying to save money. If you’re someone who doesn’t deal with heavy grease regularly, Dawn Ultra might just do the trick for you.
For more ways to use Dawn Ultra beyond dishwashing, check out my post on 5 Genius Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap.
What is Dawn Platinum?
Dawn Platinum takes things up a notch. It’s marketed as having four times the cleaning power of Dawn Ultra, and honestly, I can see why. It’s made to handle those stubborn, baked-on messes that Dawn Ultra might struggle with. For me, it’s been a lifesaver when dealing with greasy pans after a big cooking session.
One standout feature of Dawn Platinum is its versatility. I’ve even used it to clean other surfaces, like stovetops and greasy kitchen counters, and it works like a charm. It’s slightly thicker in consistency than Dawn Ultra, which makes it feel a bit more powerful.
If you’re curious about other ways to make the most of Dawn Platinum, I recommend reading my guide on Cleaning Tips for Tough Grease Stains.
What They Have in Common
Both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum are biodegradable and safe for septic systems, which is a big plus if you’re eco-conscious. They also smell great, leaving your kitchen feeling fresh after every wash.
However, the main difference lies in their cleaning power and price point. While Dawn Ultra is budget-friendly and perfect for everyday cleaning, Dawn Platinum is ideal for tougher messes and those who want maximum performance.
If you’re still undecided, don’t worry—I’ll break it down further in the comparison section ahead.
Key Comparison Factors
When it comes to comparing Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum, I wanted to focus on the things that really matter in everyday use. After weeks of testing both products in my kitchen, here’s what I found:
a) Cleaning Power
Let’s start with the most important factor: how well do they clean?
With Dawn Ultra, I noticed it handled everyday dishwashing tasks like plates, glasses, and lightly greasy pans just fine. But when I tried tackling heavier messes, like a baking dish coated in baked-on grease, it needed a bit of extra effort and scrubbing.
On the other hand, Dawn Platinum was a game-changer for tough messes. It claims to have four times the cleaning power of other dish soaps, and I could see why. It cut through the stubborn grease on my casserole dish in seconds with barely any scrubbing. If you deal with a lot of tough, greasy dishes, Dawn Platinum definitely has the edge here.
Related post: Top Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap
b) Ingredients and Safety
Both products are made with biodegradable surfactants, which is great because they’re better for the environment. However, I noticed a slight difference in scent. Dawn Ultra has a lighter fragrance, while Dawn Platinum has a stronger, more noticeable smell—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to scents.
As for safety, both are gentle enough to use on your hands without causing irritation. I have sensitive skin, and neither caused any problems for me. Still, if you prefer to avoid stronger fragrances, you might lean toward Dawn Ultra.
Related post: How to Choose a Skin-Friendly Dish Soap
c) Versatility
One of the things I love about Dawn products is their versatility. I tested both soaps on tasks beyond washing dishes, like cleaning greasy stovetops and tackling a chocolate stain on my shirt.
Here’s what I found:
- Dawn Ultra worked well for light cleaning jobs, but I had to use more product and put in extra elbow grease for tougher messes.
- Dawn Platinum, however, shined (pun intended!) in these scenarios. It quickly lifted grease off my stovetop and handled the laundry stain like a pro.
If you’re someone who likes a multi-purpose cleaner, Dawn Platinum might be worth the extra cost.
d) Value for Money
When it comes to price, Dawn Ultra is the budget-friendly option. A bottle lasts a long time for everyday use, making it a great choice if you’re watching your spending.
Dawn Platinum is more expensive, but in my experience, it’s more concentrated, so you need less of it to get the job done. Over time, this might even out the cost difference, especially if you’re dealing with heavy-duty cleaning regularly.
Related post: Budget-Friendly Cleaning Products That Work Wonders
In summary, both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum are excellent products, but they shine in different ways depending on your needs. If you’re mainly cleaning lightly soiled dishes and want to save money, Dawn Ultra is a solid choice. But if you’re frequently dealing with heavy grease or looking for a versatile cleaner, Dawn Platinum is worth the investment.
Let me know which one you prefer in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience!
Pros and Cons of Dawn Ultra
After using Dawn Ultra for a good amount of time, I can confidently share my personal experience with its pros and cons. If you’re considering whether this is the right dishwashing liquid for you, here’s everything you need to know:
Pros of Dawn Ultra
- Cuts Through Grease Like a Pro
One thing I immediately noticed was how effective Dawn Ultra is at breaking down grease. Whether it was a frying pan coated in bacon grease or a casserole dish with baked-on food, this soap got the job done without much scrubbing. - Budget-Friendly
Dawn Ultra is one of the most affordable options among dish soaps, and a little goes a long way. A single bottle lasted me several weeks, even with daily use. This makes it a great choice for anyone on a budget. - Gentle on Hands
I have sensitive skin, so I was pleasantly surprised that Dawn Ultra didn’t leave my hands feeling dry or irritated after washing dishes. It seems to strike the right balance between tough on grease and gentle on skin. - Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Beyond dishes, I found that Dawn Ultra works wonders for other cleaning tasks too. For example, I’ve used it to clean greasy stovetops and even to pre-treat stains on clothes.
Cons of Dawn Ultra
- Not Ideal for Heavy-Duty Cleaning
While it’s great for everyday dishwashing, Dawn Ultra struggles a bit with really tough, baked-on messes. For example, I had to soak some pots for a while before scrubbing off stubborn residue. If you’re dealing with heavy grease regularly, you might want to explore stronger options like Dawn Platinum (which I’ll discuss in the next section). - Slightly Thinner Consistency
Compared to Dawn Platinum, I noticed that Dawn Ultra is a bit thinner. This means you may end up using more product for tougher cleaning jobs, which could reduce its cost-effectiveness in the long run. - Basic Cleaning Power
It’s worth mentioning that Dawn Ultra works best for “standard” cleaning tasks. If you’re someone who wants a more powerful cleaner for tougher stains, it might fall short.
Overall, Dawn Ultra is a solid, budget-friendly choice for everyday dishwashing and light cleaning tasks. It’s reliable, easy to use, and gentle on the skin. However, if you’re constantly dealing with stubborn, baked-on food or heavy grease, you might want to check out Dawn Platinum instead.
Pros and Cons of Dawn Platinum
After using Dawn Platinum for a few months, I can confidently say it’s a heavy-duty dish soap with impressive performance. Here’s what stood out to me:
Pros of Dawn Platinum
- Exceptional Cleaning Power
The first thing I noticed was its ability to cut through tough grease like butter! Even with baked-on grime, I didn’t have to scrub endlessly. For someone who cooks oily or saucy dishes often, this was a game-changer. - Works Faster
Unlike some dish soaps that require soaking for hours, Dawn Platinum significantly reduced the waiting time. A few minutes were enough to loosen stubborn food residues. - Multi-Purpose
I discovered it works wonders beyond just dishes! From cleaning my greasy stovetop to removing stains from clothes, it was a versatile addition to my cleaning arsenal. - A Little Goes a Long Way
I found that just a small amount of Dawn Platinum could clean an entire sink full of dishes. It’s definitely concentrated and long-lasting, which somewhat justifies its higher price.
Cons of Dawn Platinum
- Pricier Than Dawn Ultra
While it offers superior cleaning power, it’s more expensive than Dawn Ultra. For families on a budget, this might not be the most cost-effective option. - Stronger Formula May Irritate Sensitive Skin
I noticed that if I didn’t wear gloves, my hands felt slightly dry after prolonged use. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to stick to a gentler alternative. - Overkill for Light Cleaning Tasks
For everyday light dishwashing, like rinsing a coffee mug or washing a couple of plates, Dawn Platinum might be more than you need. It feels more suited for heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
Final Thoughts on Dawn Platinum
Dawn Platinum is a powerhouse when it comes to tackling tough grease and grime. It’s perfect for households that deal with heavy cooking or stubborn messes frequently. However, if your cleaning needs are lighter or if you’re budget-conscious, it might make more sense to stick with Dawn Ultra.
For more information on how Dawn Ultra compares, check out my detailed post on How to Choose the Best Dishwashing Detergent.
What’s your experience with Dawn Platinum? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
My Final Verdict: Which One is Better?
After using both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum for several weeks, I can confidently say they both have their strengths, but the best choice really depends on your specific needs. Let me explain my experience in detail.
When it comes to everyday dishwashing, Dawn Ultra impressed me with its affordability and solid grease-cutting power. It’s great for handling light to moderate grease, and a little goes a long way. For someone on a budget or dealing with typical household dishes, this is a fantastic option.
However, when I had to tackle greasy baking trays, stubborn food stains, or even outdoor cleaning tasks, Dawn Platinum was the clear winner. Its extra grease-fighting power was evident, and it worked faster, saving me time and effort. In fact, I even used it to clean a greasy stovetop, and it performed like a champ.
Another factor worth mentioning is that Dawn Platinum seemed to last longer for heavy-duty tasks since I didn’t have to use as much compared to Dawn Ultra. That said, it is pricier, so if you don’t deal with tough messes often, it might not be worth the extra cost.
For families with lots of cooking or anyone who finds themselves scrubbing stubborn messes regularly, I’d recommend Dawn Platinum without hesitation. But if you’re simply looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option for day-to-day cleaning, Dawn Ultra will do the job beautifully.
If you’re still unsure about which to pick, check out my guide on How to Choose the Best Dishwashing Detergent for Your Needs. It provides more detailed tips to help you decide.
In the end, I like to think of it this way: Dawn Ultra is great for the everyday cook, while Dawn Platinum is ideal for the home chef. Whichever you choose, both are solid options that live up to Dawn’s reputation for quality.
If you’ve tried either of these, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! And don’t forget to read my post on Top Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap for more creative ways to use these products beyond dishwashing.
FAQs on Dawn Ultra vs. Platinum Dish Soap
Here are some common questions I’ve come across (and wondered myself!) while using Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum. I’m sharing answers based on my personal experience and some trusted sources.
1. Is Dawn Platinum safe for septic systems?
Yes, Dawn Platinum is safe for septic systems. Both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum are formulated with biodegradable surfactants, which break down naturally and won’t harm your septic system. I’ve used both at home, and I haven’t noticed any issues. Just make sure to follow the recommended amounts because overuse of any detergent can disrupt the natural balance in your septic tank.
2. Can I use these products on baby bottles?
From my experience, yes, but with some precautions. Both Dawn Ultra and Platinum do a fantastic job cutting through grease and residue, so they’re effective for cleaning baby bottles. However, always make sure to rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue. If you prefer a gentler option, Dawn Free & Clear might be a better choice.
3. What’s the difference between Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum in terms of ingredients?
While both contain powerful grease-fighting agents, Dawn Platinum is specially designed with extra surfactants to handle tough messes. This means it has about four times the grease-cleaning power of Dawn Ultra, making it better for stubborn stains. Personally, I noticed Platinum works faster on baked-on grease, while Ultra is still great for everyday cleaning.
If you’re curious about how these ingredients stack up against other eco-friendly options, you might find this post helpful:
Eco-Friendly Dishwashing Options: What You Need to Know.
4. Can I use Dawn Ultra or Platinum for cleaning other things besides dishes?
Absolutely! I’ve used both for cleaning stovetops, removing grease stains from clothes, and even scrubbing outdoor furniture. Dawn Platinum works better for heavy-duty tasks, like cleaning greasy oven racks or grills. For lighter jobs, like wiping counters or cleaning windows, Dawn Ultra gets the job done just fine.
For more tips on how to use dish soap around your home, check out my post:
Top Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap.
5. Are there eco-friendly alternatives to Dawn Ultra and Platinum?
Yes, there are! While Dawn is effective, if you’re looking for a more eco-conscious choice, brands like Seventh Generation and Mrs. Meyer’s offer plant-based dish soaps. These are great if you’re trying to reduce your environmental footprint. However, in my experience, they may not match the grease-fighting power of Dawn Platinum.
If you’re interested in learning more about greener options, I’ve covered some in detail here:
Eco-Friendly Dishwashing Options: What You Need to Know.
If you have more questions, feel free to leave a comment! I’d love to hear about your experiences and help answer any other questions you might have.
Conclusion
After trying both Dawn Ultra and Dawn Platinum in my own kitchen over the past few months, I can confidently say that both products have their strengths. It all comes down to what you need in a dish soap.
If you’re looking for an affordable option that gets the job done for everyday dishes, Dawn Ultra is a solid choice. I found it effective at cutting through grease on plates and pans, even with smaller amounts. It’s also versatile enough for other cleaning tasks around the house, like wiping down countertops or cleaning outdoor furniture.
However, if you deal with heavier messes, like baked-on grease or sticky residue from pans, Dawn Platinum truly stands out. I noticed it worked much faster on tough stains, and I didn’t need to use as much elbow grease. It’s perfect for families or anyone who regularly cooks larger, more elaborate meals.
In the end, my personal verdict is this: if you’re on a budget or don’t face tough cleaning challenges often, stick with Dawn Ultra. But if you want maximum cleaning power and don’t mind spending a little more, go for Dawn Platinum—it’s worth it.
Both products are excellent, and the choice depends on your specific needs. Have you tried either Dawn Ultra or Platinum? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
For more tips and tricks, check out my post on Top Cleaning Hacks with Dawn Dish Soap. You’ll be amazed at the creative ways you can use these products beyond just doing dishes!
