TL;DR
Popular Detergents for Sensitive Skin
Several detergents are frequently recommended by users with sensitive skin. Tide Free & Clear is a popular choice due to its consistent performance without causing skin issues [1:1]
[3:4]. Persil Free & Sensitive is another option praised for being gentle on the skin while effectively cleaning clothes
[1:6]
[3:5]. Dirty Labs Free & Clear has also received positive feedback from users who experienced improvements in their skin conditions after switching
[1:3]
[5:2].
Natural and Non-Toxic Options
For those looking for natural or non-toxic alternatives, Biokleen's lavender lily detergent is highlighted for its lack of artificial ingredients and gentle effect on sensitive skin [1:2]. Molly's Suds is another non-toxic option that users appreciate for its effectiveness without harsh chemicals
[3:3]
[5:5].
Additional Tips for Managing Sensitivity
Beyond choosing the right detergent, there are other strategies to reduce skin irritation. Using unscented products and avoiding fabric softeners can help prevent allergic reactions [2:5]
[4:1]. Some users recommend adding white vinegar during the rinse cycle as a natural alternative to fabric softener
[4:3]. Additionally, setting your washing machine to perform extra rinse cycles can ensure that detergent residues are thoroughly removed from clothing
[2:2]
[5:6].
Alternative Cleaning Agents
Some individuals have found success using alternative cleaning agents such as Dr. Bronner’s castile soap, which is concentrated and used sparingly [4:2]. This approach might be beneficial for those who react to traditional detergents.
When selecting a detergent for sensitive skin, it may be helpful to test different products and observe how your skin responds. Consulting with a dermatologist could also provide personalized recommendations based on specific skin sensitivities.
I feel like the best detergents for cleaning our clothes are always the ones that can really irritate your skin. Does anyone have any experience with sensitive types that do a great job cleaning the clothes as well?
I always saw it as a tradeoff. Either my clothes were properly clean but my skin would freak out or my skin was fine but the clothes still smelled a little off after a wash. I also didn’t want to give up having clothes that actually smell nice. Something light and natural like lilies and not that fake heavy detergent smell. I'm now obsesseddd with Biokleen's lavender lily detergent. It's their this natural laundry detergent and has no artificial junk. It's super easy on my skin and somehow still gets everything properly clean. The scent isn’t overwhelming. It’s just fresh enough without being too much
Dirty labs free and clear. I swear I tried everything for my acne and it didn’t change, and then when I changed to dirty labs for my laundry my skin cleared up
Is that the name brand detergent? Dirty labs ? Never heard of it where can I buy it? I have excema and this year it’s been the worst and I think I am finally allergic to my laundry detergent I never was before until now !! All of the sudden my clothes or bed linen and towels feels harsh on my skin
Whole foods or online
Truly free laundry detergent
I second that tide free and clear because my sister also has super sensitive skin. The best detergent that I have found on the market is Persil.
Ok ya I was wondering about that persil.. thank you!
thank you 🙏
Truly free
In the US. My child and I both have sensitive skin and get flare ups of eczema/contact dermatitis Usually itchy bumps/red rashes or dry itchy skin.
We were using antibacterial detergent cause we had sickness running rampant in the house. I was trying to really clean all the clothes, bedding, and other fabrics and even used the triple rinse option to try and stop skin irritation.
I wanted suggestions from people vs the multiple sites that say "Top 8 laundry detergents for sensitive skin!" That show the same options in different placements.
My whole family has soap sensitivities, we use Ecosense Mela Power and set our washer to extra rinse
I like seventh generation or ECOS. Costco often has ECOS for bulk buying. I like the unscented stuff since regular detergent can be really strong for me. And in general these seem to be less harsh on clothing/bedding so they stay soft and last longer.
My skin is very sensitive and I use Tide for sensitive skin, and bounce free for fabric oftener. Maybe that will help you, too.
Thanks! I stopped using fabric softener and switched to wool dryer balls to see if the softener was the issue too. Tide was one detergent I wrote down to check out :)
Not the op, but thanks for the recommendation. Would definitely try this.
I would only use non-scented ones to start.
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I'm allergic to Tide. My partner is allergic to All Free and Clear.
I like Arm & Hammer Free & Clear Sensitive Skin. It's been really good for my partner who is allergic to almost everything.
For liquid detergent, Seventh Generation has been the only one I don't react to. For powdered non-enzymatic detergent, Molly's Suds has become my favorite recently.
Tide free and clear has been consistently good for me. I deal with major allergies to scents and some ingredients but Tide has consistently been something I can use without issue.
Persil Free & Sensitive (Amazon only) or maybe Dirty Labs unscented.
The best detergent is not one that is soothing or innocuous to skin... but one that isn't there at all after a rinse. Of course, if it helps if it takes the dirt along with it down the drain, but that should go without saying... 🧐
So here’s my dilemma I have used arm and hammer “sensitive skin”, tide “sensitive skin” mostly all the ones that say they’re for sensitive skin. And they will be fine for a wash, but then I’ll start to break out.
Sensitive skin people of Reddit, do you make your own detergent? Do you have a brand you recommend?
Side note: I have eczema, and contact dermatitis
We’ve been using Dr Bronner’s castelle soap instead of detergent, just put less than a teaspoon full in (it’s concentrated) and don’t add anything else. If something is extra gross I will put in unscented laundry sanitizer too
The best thing is to use white vinegar in place of fabric softener, then do an extra rinse.
I dry with wool balls and no dryer sheets.
All free & clear. NO fabric softener (liquid or sheets.) & lysol laundry sanitizer only. But make sure the detergent is LIQUID. I have uber sensitive skin & can’t use any other detergent or sanitizer. Also, I use dove sensitive skin (bar soap & body wash.) get detergent with the clear cap.)
Hello, fellow Redditors.
This isn't your typical skin care question, but I figured since the topic is skin and we've been around a while, you all might have some good advice.
My skin has always been sensitive, but as I approach 40, it seems to be getting much worse. Even Ivory and Dove fragrance free are giving me rashes.
I have always used "free and clear" laundry soaps. I never add any scent beads or fabric softeners because they will make me itch if I do.
My dilemma is that i can't seem to find a detergent that doesn't irritate my skin anymore. I have tried every brand we find on the shelf (Tide, All, Arm and Hammer, etc). If it's available at the grocery store and has a sensitive skin label, I have tried it. I've also tried making soap at home, but it was actually worse 😅
For my sensitive skinned ladies, what are you using in the laundry room?
Any suggestions or insights will be highly appreciated.
Thank you!
Dirty Labs! It is super effective with enzymes. I use scented, but they have a free and clear regular and delicate.
LOVE Dirty Labs. I use the enzyme booster and Murasaki (jasmine, matcha, and vetiver) scented detergent.
Omg that sounds like it smells so good
They’re excellent! If you order online, make sure you get the right scent option.
Persil! They don’t have the itchy Ms: Methylisothiazolinone and its derivatives that make me itch like mad.
I have extremely sensitive skin and I narrowed a lot of irritation to soaps and synthetic conditioners. I tested this theory with hand soap, body wash and shampoo and it was a bingo. So I got a quarter cup of baking soda and ran an empty load with hot water to rinse my washing machine. Then I took all of my clothes out of my closet and drawers and re-washed everything with Molly's Suds. I have about 8 to 10 wool dryer balls for each load so I don't have to dry my clothes for so long thus reducing static. I've been doing this for about 7 years now. My clothes feel cleaner and softer. And I don't have any skin irritation.
I second mollys. Hard to beat a non-toxic option. The other one I like is seventh generation but it does contain some toxic chemicals, just not as much as your typical tide, etc detergents.
Have you tested your water? A friend of mine struggled with this until they installed a water softener. Another tactic that worked was setting the washer to rinse 3x.
Or changed brand of washing machines
I use all free and clear, and wool balls in place of dryer sheets. Our clothes virtually have no scent besides smelling clean. I like what we use- it works and much more gentle on clothes.
I’m having some sensitivities (itching & skin rashes like contact dermatitis) from laundry detergents…even the ones for skin sensitive people. So far I tried the “allergy free” Arm & Hammer, Molly’s Suds, Zum (the smell of that one is overpoweringly GROSS too…I got the Sea Salt but the others are far worse) and another all-natural one without SLS (forget the name now).
The overpowering smells from the all-natural ones with essential oils are a problem too.
This can get expensive and it’s hard to find smaller bottles anymore!
Does anyone here having skin issues/problems from laundry detergent?
If so…what do you use successfully?
Thanks 😊
I used to be really bad until switching to a sensitive detergent. I also set my washing machine to have an extra rinse cycle. It takes longer, but I don’t itch or sneeze anymore, so it’s worth it.
That could be my problem too. Some new washers don’t even fill with enough water (like mine)…even on the “extra fill” setting…which is so annoying 🤬 Sometimes my clothes even have dry spots on them where it wasn’t even touched by the water. High Efficiency⁉️🤔 NOT‼️ HOW⁉️ It can’t even get all the soap out. I think that’s half the problem so I don’t even put much soap in…I only use half the recommended HE amount…and I do use the extra rinse cycle. Sorry for the rant…got carried away!! You’d think for the prices of them, it would be much better. They don’t make stuff like they used to 🤦♀️🤷♀️
I have eczema and I use Nellie’s laundry soda. It’s unscented and has no unnecessary ingredients. It’s never caused any issues for my very sensitive skin, plus the tub lasts me a long time!
I don't have sensitive skin but love Dirty Labs. I believe they have an unscented version but the scented ones to me are very mild. It's very concentrated so you use only a tiny bit. You can buy online, I don't think they are in stores.
*I also hate Zum! My friend uses it and I told her I can’t be in her house anymore. Of course she think it’s with “essential oils” so it’s fine. IT REEKS and it’s so strong! 🤮
Ozone machine + seventh generation is my laundry combination. (Ozone is because no laundry detergent out there can remove synthetic fragrance, but Ozone eventually can)
Definitely avoid synthetic fragrance ...that whole category has no safety regulations whatsoever and you'll never be able to tell the difference between allergen or real toxin.
I also wash my undershirts in reverse osmosis instead of tap water because that's just part of what I need to do to avoid acne and itching...the tap water in Florida is nasty. I wash my body and hair with distilled water, and my undershirts with reverse osmosis water (which is not quite as good as distilled water but can be made in larger amounts and the equipment can be easily hidden)
Hello! My little guy and I both have sensitive skin and have struggled to find a budget friendly and clean laundry detergent that actually works well. What do you all recommend? Bonus if I can buy it in bulk. Thanks!
If you or someone you know has access to a Costco, I love their Kirkland brand detergent. I’ve tried their regular and their scent free, they’re both great.
Tide in the white bottle
I like the arm & hammer scent free
This is my go to, love it! And bonus, get it on sale at Walgreens when it's buy 1, get 2 free.
Nellie’s laundry soda is so good! And it cost almost nothing.
Hi, I’m having a kind of strange issue that I could use some advice on. For the past year or so I’ve been super itchy all over my body. I thought maybe my skin was just dry or I had an infection of some kind but it turns out it’s my detergent. I have no idea which detergent to use. I originally used Tide pods, but then I switched to the tide pods for sensitive skin and it didn’t work. Now I use arm and hammer and it’s still not working. The itching has become unbearable to the point where I can’t wait to get home just so I can remove my clothes. Does anybody know of any brands that I could use to get my clothes clean that won’t irritate my skin. I am also open to home remedies for cleaning clothes as well. Also, would anybody know how to get chemicals out of clothes? I feel like my clothes have become saturated to the point where I can barely put them on so if there’s anything that I can do to help that, that would be awesome.
I use Kirkland free and clear. You can try it, but at some point this year another company will make it, so the formula may change.
Have you cleaned your washer? There may be fragrance residue left in it. I use Affresh, because that’s what my washer manual recommends, but others in this sub have liked other brands as well.
I do regularly clean my washer and I’m really good about not using fragrant products but I will definitely try Kirkland because I like other products from them. I’m assuming you might be able to get it at Costco?
Yes! Ive been using it for years as one of my kids has eczema. It works well.
In case you need oxygen stain removal, Costco also has a Kirkland version of Oxiclean, but it has fragrance. Target’s up and up version is fragrance-free!
Whatever you choose, make sure you are choosing an extra rinse cycle, and only use a couple of tablespoons of detergent.
To get residues out of clean clothes, I would start with soaking batches of clothes overnight in the bathtub with a few cups of vinegar. Then ring out and throw in the washer for a rinse and spin cycle.
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I'd double check that it isn't some other medical issue. If your skin itches when covered by fabric- it could be the fabric/detergent- but it could be something on your skin is irritated by the lack of air flow or the friction from clothing rubbing against you. If all else fails- see an allergy specialist. They can determine what you are allergic to and help narrow down your detergent search.
May I ask, what is it that has convinced you it is the detergent, if you have not so far found a detergent to switch to that makes the itch go away?
I ask this because itching can be a caused by many things, including some serious medical problems. I am a survivor of Hodgkins Lymphoma, and intense, all-over itch for no apparent reason was one of my symptoms that had been misdiagnosed and therefore delayed the beginning of correct treatment. if you have not already consulted your doctor, I urge you to do so.
Well at first I thought I had a yeast infection, an std, or something along those lines but I noticed whenever I took my underpants off the itching would go away. I know it’s not the fabric that I have because it happens with all my underwear regardless of fabric. The only common denominator is the detergent that I’m using. My arms and other parts of my body itch but not nearly as bad as my intimate regions. However I also noticed that when I go “commando” I’m not itchy whatsoever. Sorry that was a lot of information.
No problem. I did ask!
I'm still not convinced, however, and believe a talk with your doctor would be a good idea. For one thing, if it's your detergent, then there should not be such big difference among different body parts. In particular, "going commando" should not have any effect on itching in your arms and legs, and really very little effect on your intimate regions, assuming that your out clothing is washed with the same detergent.
This may seem crazy but I need to suggest it anyway- toilet paper is my big issue and it's the only thing you haven't mentioned. As prices keep going up manufacturing costs do too. Manufacturers will look for ways to cut costs and production methods are probably at the top of their "cut" list. The only brand I can tolerate is Scott but lately the sheets are thin like tissue paper so I use more. Another thing I do is carry a plastic bottle with water when I'm out and use it like a bidet rinse and then just dap myself dry with the toilet paper found in the rest room. (Just a suggestion since you seem to have run out of ideas.)
Most of them make me really itchy so does anyone have detergents that don’t leave me all itchy?
It’s usually the fragrance ingredients. If there’s been something you liked the performance of, try the unscented variant.
Tide Clean & Gentle Powder, The Unscented Co tablets and 365 by Whole Foods powder are fantastic choices. Powders also don’t have preservatives that can cause skin irritation. Even some “Free & Clear” liquids have the 2009 Contact Allergen of the Year in them.
Personally, I’d suggest a jug of 365 by Whole Foods Sport liquid and 1-2 T of their Oxygen Whitener powder. It’s probably the highest performing combo you can buy and the ingredients are super skin friendly.
I would also make sure, regardless of what products you use, to always use the maximum water level, deep rinse and extra rinses. That which isn’t left in the clothing can’t make you itch.
Ty! :)
If the detergent is properly rinsed out, it shouldn't make you itch even if you are sensitive.
Unfortunately many machines are not great at rinsing, so your first step should be to add an extra rinse. Also make sure you are not using excessive detergent. If you have soft water, this means you need less detergent for a good wash, also that unfortunately that detergent is tougher to rinse out.
If this doesn't sort the problem, you could be sensitive to enzymes, as found in bio/enzyme detergents. Even Persil are not afraid to say that bio detergents "may cause irritation in babies or those with sensitive skin." The alternative, non-bio detergents, are not as good on stains or odours, but are effective if your clothes are not especially dirty or smelly.
It is very unlikely that fragrance is causing your problem, since the most common laundry fragrance ingredients (linalool, citronellol, geraniol) are not classed as sensitising, and are also the most common fragrancing in skincare, including baby products.
Ty ! :)
Tide Clean and Gentle powder is excellent (corrected from Free to Clean)
Great thank you!
The amount you're using might be the key to your itchiness. Depending upon the size of your machine, you may only need to use a single tablespoon.
My partner also suffered from eternal itchiness, we use way less detergent now and can use any brand without him looking like a prickly pear.
Consider Dirty Labs fragrance free.
Dadmode or Dirty Labs. But make sure there aren't suds left over in the drum when the load is done. If there are, that's your culprit for itchy skin. If not, it's the fragrance and the 2 I mentioned are not offensive in this category.
best detergent for sensitive skin
Key Considerations for Choosing Detergent for Sensitive Skin:
Hypoallergenic Formula: Look for detergents labeled as hypoallergenic, which are designed to minimize allergic reactions and irritation.
Fragrance-Free: Choose fragrance-free options to avoid potential irritants. Many scented detergents can cause skin reactions.
Dye-Free: Avoid detergents with artificial colors or dyes, as these can also irritate sensitive skin.
Gentle Ingredients: Opt for detergents that use plant-based or gentle cleaning agents, which are less likely to irritate the skin.
Dermatologist Tested: Look for products that have been tested and recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin.
Recommendations:
Seventh Generation Free & Clear: This detergent is hypoallergenic, free of fragrances and dyes, and made with plant-based ingredients, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
All Free Clear: This is another popular option that is free of dyes and perfumes, and it's also recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin.
Tide Free & Gentle: This detergent is effective at cleaning while being gentle on the skin, as it is free from dyes and perfumes.
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day: If you prefer a more natural option, this brand offers a gentle formula that is free from harsh chemicals and is available in various scents that are derived from essential oils.
Takeaway: Always test a small amount of the detergent on your skin before using it on all your laundry, especially if you have particularly sensitive skin.
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