Electrochemical cells that cycle lithium ions and methods for suppressing or minimizing dendrite formation are provided. The electrochemical cells include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator sandwiched therebetween. The positive and negative electrodes and separator may each include an electrolyte system comprising one or more lithium salts, one or more solvents, and one or more complexing agents. The one or more complexing agents binds to metal contaminants found within the electrochemical cell to form metal ion complex compounds that minimize or suppress formation of dendrite protrusions on the negative electrode at least by increasing the horizontal area (e.g., decreasing the height) of any dendrite formation.