What is an Alternative to dishwashing detergent?

I am a college student who shares an apartment with 3 other people. It is my turn to buy dishwashing powder to go in the dishwasher. Compared to my roommates I am the “freethinker”. Something about the dishwashing soap creeps me out. I am looking for a safe alternative. When I reseached it on the internet it seems like a debate between borax and not borax…. Anyways, it there anyone out there who has a tested and true alternative to the box dishwashing detergent?
remember, I am a poor college student.