When it comes to treating sensitive skin, we do everything we can to prevent irritation. We buy the right face washes, soaps, creams, shampoos, and whatnot. But we often overlook the importance of the right laundry detergent.
It’s quite possible that it’s your detergent which is the real culprit. Just think about it. It has all the harmful chemicals, dyes, fragrances, etc. that can cause several skin issues. That’s why you need the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin.
Luckily, there are lots of detergents that are safe for sensitive skin. At the same time, they do a great job of cleaning your clothes by removing dirt and stains effectively.
More importantly, they do not contain harsh ingredients, artificial fragrances, and dyes, etc. Perhaps, that’s all you need to kiss goodbye to your problems like skin irritation, eczema, runny nose, and whatnot.
Top Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin Reviewed
With all being said and done, it’s time for you to choose the right product. To save you time, we have selected the best laundry detergents for sensitive skin with gentle yet effective formulas.
1. all Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent
Accepted by National Eczema Association, all Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is the number product recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians for sensitive skin. It uses almost the same formula as the regular detergents by all Free Clear. The only difference is that this one doesn’t contain fragrances and dyes.
It removes dirt, seasonal allergens, dust, dog and cat dander, grass pollen, etc. The 2X cleaning formula makes it easy for you to tackle those stubborn stains.
The product can be used in both standard washers as well as high efficiency (HE) washers. And you can use it on all kinds of fabrics. Also, it’s biodegradable. It doesn’t contain phosphorus, sulfates, etc.
For people with allergies, this is one of the best options you’ve got as it is hypoallergenic. Plus, it’s one of the top-selling products in the US. Best of all, a single bottle will give you 110 loads.
2. Puracy Natural Liquid Detergent
Made from plant-based ingredients, Puracy Natural Liquid Detergent is a great choice for cleaning laundry. The product is created by doctors keeping allergies and sensitive skin in mind. It doesn’t contain toxic ingredients such as bleaches, sulfates, phosphates, chlorine, etc.
The product is specially formulated for use on delicate and dark clothes. It has a four-enzyme formula that is very effective in cleaning and keeping odor at bay. On top of that, it is allergen-free.
So, it’s safe to assume that people with sensitive skin have nothing to worry about. Want to know more? The detergent has zinc ricinoleate for extra odor elimination. The no-drip pump ensures that there’s no unnecessary spilling.
The brand says it’s 99.5% natural and is gluten-free. And it’s never tested on animals. You get 96 loads in a single bottle. It’s a child and pet safe product. Finally, it’s made in the USA. What else could someone ask for in a detergent?
3. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Detergent Powder
The reason why this detergent is so wonderful is because of its ability to pretreat stains. Just wet the area with cold water, make a paste of the product, apply it on the stain, brush gently, and voila – you’re done!
It uses earth-derived ingredients. You can rest assured that it’s gentle on sensitive skin as it is free of sulfates, phosphates, formaldehyde, petrochemicals, optical brighteners, or any other harsh ingredients that you could think of.
The product works on all fabrics except for silk and leather. It cleans the clothes and doesn’t produce suds. So, you won’t face any problem using it with HE washers. Also, it is totally safe for newborns and people with skin problems such as eczema, dermatitis, etc.
Your clothes will smell clean and feel clean. Above all, you won’t be dealing with any skin reactions. For the best results, please remember to use warm water for your loads. It will help the laundry powder dissolve really well.
4. Dropps Sensitive Skin HE Natural Laundry Detergent Pods
Offered in single-dose packets, Dropps detergent is simply amazing in many ways. First off, it has an unscented formula. Secondly, it doesn’t contain artificial dyes. Most importantly, it’s approved by EPA’s Safer Choice Program. Thanks to its plant-based biodegradable formula.
It has completely recyclable packaging. So, it’s very good for our environment. The formula is free of artificial scents and dyes. It’s also animal-cruelty free. You can find it on PETA’s list of products that do not test.
It’s perfect for all kinds of fabric and works with all temperatures. Plus, it’s enzyme-free and NPE-free. While it works great on mild stains, it might not work very well on heavily-stained laundry as the formula is quite gentle.
It doesn’t damage your clothes and keeps the color brighter. If you and your family have been suffering from irritated skin, you should give this one a go. All you have to do is add 1 pod of the detergent in the washer and you’re good!
5. Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent
Presenting you with a detergent that comes with a triple enzyme formula to get rid of the tough stains. It contains USDA certified plant-derived ingredients that are safe for sensitive skin. Furthermore, it’s EPA Safer Choice certified product.
With 0% fragrances and dyes, it’s a safe choice for irritated skin. Also, it’s dermatologically tested on sensitive skin, so you can have your peace of mind. The enzyme-rich formula breaks down the dirt particles and cleans the clothes really well.
It works in all water temperatures and washing machines. From grass stains to coffee spills and everything in between, the product removes everything. And since it doesn’t have any scent, your skin is safe.
For kids suffering from eczema, this detergent is a great choice. The thing we didn’t like about the product is that your clothes do not feel fresh as there is no scent. And you might have to use more detergent than usual for optimal cleaning.
6. Tide Free & Gentle HE Turbo Liquid Laundry Detergent
Let us introduce you to Tide Free & Gentle laundry detergent, perfect for families dealing with sensitive skin. From kids to adults, it’s safe for everyone and does a wonderful job of fighting the stains.
Studies have shown that it’s dyes and fragrances that cause the skin to irritate. Of course, this detergent is free of that allergy-causing duo. The detergent is specially formulated for HE washers.
In addition, it is recommended by both the National Psoriasis Foundation and the National Eczema Association. And that’s enough proof of the gentleness and effectiveness of the product.
The cleaning action is up to the mark, and it’s capable of removing stains such as tomato sauce, coffee spills, grass stains, or other stubborn spots on your laundry. Above that, it protects colors as well. So, your brand spanking new outfit doesn’t lose its charm.
Needless to say, the formula is gentle and can be used in all water temperatures. Additionally, it is unscented but yet it leaves your clothes smelling fresh.
7. Pure Natural Laundry Detergent
Here’s an all-natural detergent that contains soap nuts as part of the formula. Yep, that’s right! Soap nuts are one of the most effective natural cleansers. They contain saponin that works as a surfactant. By breaking the surface tension of the water, it lifts the stains as it penetrates deep into your clothes.
There are no added optical brighteners, dyes, or fragrances. It uses eco-friendly and safe ingredients to ensure the safety of your family as well as the environment.
Moreover, it’s biodegradable and septic tank safe. Aside from lifting the stains, it also eliminates the dirt and makes your clothes soft. Plus, it’s very easy to use.
And if you’re someone who wants to keep their family safe from toxic chemicals, you should absolutely try this product as it is 100% natural. A little goes a long way, so you get the best bang for your buck. On top of that, it won’t bother your irritated skin.
8. NaturOli Soap Nuts Laundry Detergent
NaturOli Soap Nuts Detergent is one of the products that will change your life for the better. It uses Soapberries straight from the Himalayas. You can say adios to chemical detergents and protect your family from toxic ingredients.
It has an excellent cleansing action and will easily lift the most obstinate stains. Also, it is baby-safe as well. NaturOli Soap Nuts detergent is praised for its efficacy. For maximum results, use it with hot water. Or you can simply throw the nuts in hot water before putting them in the washer.
What you will like about this product is the fact that it doesn’t leave a soapy residue on your apparel. You get clean-smelling clothes without irritating scent.
Additionally, it is inexpensive, safe for the environment, and easily one of the best laundry soaps. Once you switch to this one, you’ll find it hard to turn to some other detergent.
As it doesn’t have a scent, it won’t make your clothes smell good. That could be a letdown if you want them to smell fresh.
9. Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid
Please make way for yet another exciting laundry soap that uses biodegradable ingredients. Charlie’s Soap contains water that comes straight from the Mayo river. The product also fulfills EPA Safer Choice Standard.
The brand was founded in 1971 and Charlie’s Soap was introduced in the mid-1980s. It’s a small family-owned business based in North Carolina.
The product uses green ingredients that are safe for Mother Earth. The sweat can make the clothes smell really bad. Thanks to Charlie’s Soap, that won’t be a problem anymore. It’s available in both powder and liquid form.
It has a scent-free formula. So, it’s a wise choice for people who are allergic to fragrances. The brand says that it works on the toughest of stains like grease, wine, food, grass, etc. Upon testing the product, we found it is indeed effective.
And if that’s not good enough to convince you, it is also safe for cleaning baby clothes. That’s impressive, right? It doesn’t leave a residue on clothes and they feel fresh! We can say it’s one of the finest detergents.
10. Babyganics Liquid Baby Laundry Detergent
Babyganics has some of the finest products in the US. The Babyganics Liquid Baby Laundry Detergent does contain sulfates, parabens, dyes, fragrances, chlorine, phthalates, or other toxic ingredients. Instead, it is formulated with plant-based ingredients.
The enzyme-based cleaning formula is safe for babies, and it’s also capable of removing almost all types of stains. The only problematic ingredient we found is Methylisothiazolinone (a preservative) that can cause a little irritation.
You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that it is tested by dermatologists and pediatricians. You already know that fragrances can cause allergies to babies and adults as well. Luckily, it doesn’t have any fragrances.
Although it can take care of most of the stains, we’ve found it is not very effective against oil-based stains. That was expected though as the formula is somewhat mild.
It works perfectly for pretreating spots as well. Additionally, it will leave your clothes softer and cleaner.
11. Country Save Biodegradable Laundry Detergent
Country Save Laundry Detergent is all-natural and doesn’t leave your clothes with a smell stronger than your perfume. Okay, let us tell you a few things you’ll absolutely love about this product. First of all, it is dye-free. Secondly, it doesn’t contain phosphates, phthalates, and is completely biodegradable.
Lastly, it doesn’t contain coconut-derived ingredients. The detergent is compatible with all the washers. It doesn’t have added optical brighteners. Another interesting thing about this product is that it is included in military care packages.
The low-sud formula doesn’t mess with the sensors of your washers. Also, it’s EPA certified. You won’t need to add fabric softeners so long as you’re using this detergent. And it’s a hypoallergenic detergent, and it rinses off really well. If you have soiled laundry, don’t forget to use warm water for better cleaning.
12. Nellie’s All-Natural Non-Toxic Vegan Powdered Laundry Detergent
Here’s a powdered laundry detergent made up of very simple ingredients. The formula consists of sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium metasilicate, and some other simple ingredients. It is free of phosphates, parabens, and fragrances. So, it’s safe for sensitive and itchy skin.
A lot of people develop rashes and itchiness when they use ingredients made up of harmful chemicals. But with Nellie’s detergent, your skin is safe. As the name suggests, it’s all-natural and it is also Leaping Bunny certified.
The powerful blend of ingredients makes a really effective formula that’s soft on the skin and harsh on stains. You need to use it in small amounts. Use 1 tablespoon of powder for a regular load.
The brand believes that liquid detergents contain water as one of its key ingredients. But with powder detergents, more cleaning power can be packed into a smaller space. That’s why they have formulated this special powdered laundry detergent.
The cleaning action is indeed powerful. It can get rid of the most stubborn stains quite easily. You’ll be impressed with the results.
How to Choose the Right Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin
When choosing a laundry detergent for irritated skin, there are certain factors to take into account. Here are a few things to remember:
Stick with Scent-Free Products
If your skin is sensitive to scents, you’re better off without detergents that contain fragrances. Always make sure that you buy unscented products. Read the label. If a product doesn’t contain fragrances, you will be able to find that information on the label.
Some people want their clothes to smell fresh and good. In that case, they can buy detergents that use essential oils for fragrances.
Try First
When you’re switching to a new brand, make sure to try washing one piece of cloth first. Then wear it for a day and see how it feels on your skin. If no problem arises, then you’re good to go! Otherwise, you should skip that product.
Hypoallergenic
Go with the best hypoallergenic laundry detergents. Check on the label if the product is hypoallergenic. It may help prevent allergies. But the problem is some brands just put hypoallergenic on the product just for the sake of putting it. Therefore, it’s best to try the product first.
Chemical-Free
Some detergents contain very harsh chemicals. These chemicals are your worst enemy if you have sensitive skin. Avoid products that contain dyes, phosphates, phthalates, etc. Go with natural products whenever possible.
Compatibility
Another important thing to remember is to check whether the detergent is compatible with your washer or not. Some of the detergents are not made for High-Efficiency Washing Machines. Using them will only damage your washers. Therefore, we advise you to check compatibility first.
Liquid or Powder Detergent: Which One to Buy?
Well, it all depends on your needs. Powder detergents are good for ground-in dirt, mud stains, etc. They are also cheaper than liquid detergents. Plus, they have a longer shelf life.
On the other hand, liquid detergents are an ideal choice for oily and greasy stains. It’s more convenient to use. Furthermore, they mix really well in water. If the water is cold, liquid detergents are much more effective than powdered detergents. But they are somewhat expensive.
So, it is really up to you which one you’re going to buy. Both have their pros and cons but they clean your clothes all right. No matter which one you choose, please make sure they do not contain harsh ingredients. More importantly, they should be safe for sensitive skin.
Laundry Tips for People With Sensitive Skin
No doubt, doing laundry is one of the most dreadful tasks. And people with sensitive skin suffer even more. Here are a few laundry tips for you to remember:
- Rinse thoroughly: It’s imperative that you make sure the clothes are thoroughly rinsed. Failure in doing so might leave a soapy residue that might cause skin irritation, eczema, itchiness, rashes, etc. Buy the detergents that rinse well.
- Don’t use too much detergent: Don’t just assume that if you use more detergent, it will clean better. Be sure to follow the instructions. Using too much can produce too much foam that can be bad for your washer. And it can also leave residue on clothes as well.
- Fabric softeners: Use fabric softeners with utmost care. Buy the ones that are good for sensitive skin. Some of these softeners contain harsh chemicals that can be bad for your baby. Besides, some detergents do a fine job of softening the fabrics.
- Wash new Clothes: When you buy new clothes for yourself or family, be sure to wash them first before wearing them. They contain irritants that might damage your skin.
Conclusion
You see, detergents are not always bad for sensitive skin. All you have to do is find the right detergent and you can deal with irritated skin. Brands are getting better at making products that clean really well without using harsh ingredients.
The ones we have mentioned above should really help you if you’re sick of your irritated skin. They should be able to meet all your family’s needs.
If you think we’ve missed some of the products, let us know in the comments below. That’s pretty much it, folks! What’s your favorite laundry detergent? Do let us know!