The 12 Best Laundry Detergents For Sensitive Skin – 2024
Wash your clothes with mild detergents to stop aggravating your sensitive skin.
Experience: 2 yearsPratyasha has a master's degree in English from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is an avid lover of art and literature. She has over two years of experience in writing articles across beauty and lifestyle, and she curates and reviews products and appliances that make the readers’ household chores easy and keep their homes running smoothly.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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A laundry detergent is formulated to clean the fabric thoroughly and deodorize it. However, these laundry detergents are also infused with dyes and certain chemicals that can cause allergies and irritate the skin even after you have thoroughly rinsed your clothes. This is why you need the best detergent for sensitive skin. It is specially formulated such that it does not leave any residue on the fabric. Ordinary detergents leave traces on the clothes that trigger eczema, irritation, allergies, itching, breakouts, or inflammation. But a finely crafted laundry detergent, dermatologist recommended and allergen-free, will not cause any such issues.
But again, finding the right detergent may be cumbersome. You need to find one that is dermatologist-recommended, dye- and fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, allergist-approved. Sounds difficult? Then check out our list of the 12 best detergents for sensitive skin.
In This Article
What Is The Main Difference Between Regular And Hypoallergenic Detergent?
The key difference between regular detergent and hypoallergenic detergent is in the ingredients. Regular detergents may seem more affordable and come with various fragrances. However, they are loaded with synthetic chemicals and dyes that can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive skin. Regular detergents have optical brighteners, bleach, and fragrances linked to a range of adverse health issues.
Meanwhile, when it comes to hypoallergenic detergents, they are dye-free, perfume-free, and plant-based. They are free from chemical cleansers, fragrances, and optical brighteners and use natural cleaners for the job. The hypoallergenic laundry detergents are formulated with plant-based ingredients and do not have any side effects on most skin types. These come under the label of ‘Free and Clear’ and are also highly concentrated to give you fresh and spotless clothes.
We have rounded up the 12 best dermatologist-recommended laundry detergents for sensitive skin. Check them out and pick your favorite from the list.
12 Best-Rated Laundry Detergents For Sensitive Skin
1. Best Dermatologist-Recommended:All Free And Clear 4 In 1 Mighty Pacs
All Free And Clear 4 In 1 Mighty Pacs is an ideal laundry detergent for sensitive skin. These single-use, hypoallergenic laundry pods remove the toughest of stains easily and are gentle on the skin. They can be used with fabric softeners or dryer sheets to achieve static-free, softer, and cleaner clothes. This dermatologist-recommended laundry detergent is dye- and perfume-free and safe for high-efficiency washing machines. Before purchasing, check out this video on YouTube for more information on the All Free And Clear 4 In 1 Mighty Pacs and to learn about the reviewer’s experience with this product.
- Leaves no residue
- Eliminates seasonal allergens
- Pediatrician-tested
- Compatible with fabric softeners
- Compatible with sheet-dryer
- Easy to use
- Pods melt completely
- Value for money
- May cause irritation
Pro TipIf you observe that your white clothing is losing its whiteness and becoming yellow, try washing them with a quarter cup of baking soda added to this detergent. It aids in lightening and whiting the clothing’s yellow tint.
2. Best Dye-Free Formula:Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Detergent For Sensitive Skin
The Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Detergent for Sensitive Skin deep cleans and effectively removes tough stains, making laundry an effortless task. This hypoallergenic laundry detergent leaves your clothes soft and refreshed for a long time without triggering your allergies. The perfume- and dye-free formula contains enzymes that break down stains and clean your clothes with ultimate fiber care.
This detergent is compatible with all washing machines, including high-efficiency ones. It works under all water temperatures.
- Long-lasting freshness
- Fights odor
- Anti-graying properties
- Leaves a residue
- Requires double rinsing
3. Best Color Protector:Tide Pods Free And Gentle Laundry Detergent
This Tide laundry detergent for sensitive skin is a multipurpose cleaner that works effectively as a stain remover, detergent, and color protector. It deep cleans, fights stain, brightens the fabric, and maintains the color with its gentle formula. The detergent works perfectly in cold and hot water and is suitable for high-efficiency turbo washing machines. Its formula is approved by both NEA (National Eczema Association) and NPF (National Psoriasis Foundation) for eczema patients.
- Compatible with high-efficiency washing machines
- Hassle-free cleaning
- Suitable for all types of clothing
- Phosphate-free
- Ideal for hot and cold water
- Leaves a residue
- Overpowering chemical fragrance
4. Best Fragrance-Free:Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Laundry Detergent
The Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Laundry Detergent is a skin-friendly cleaner that is tough on stains. This laundry detergent is formulated without dyes and synthetic fragrances and has a lower suds formula. It deeply cleans the clothes and removes dirt and grime from the fibers without leaving any detergent residue. This detergent works efficiently and effectively on all washing machines – the standard ones and the latest energy-conscious high-efficiency (HE) ones.
- Low suds formula
- Powerful cleaner
- Leaves no residue
- Works in all types of washing machines
- Value for money
- Contains fragrance
5. Best Plant-Based Ingredients:ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Built-In Fabric Softener
The ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent has a pH balancing, ultra-concentrated formula for lifting stains, brightening white clothes, and protecting colors for a longer time. It has a built-in fabric softener that prevents static cling and softens garments better than other detergents.
The detergent is made from plant-based ingredients with a mild magnolia and lily essential oil fragrance that does not trigger allergies. You can use this laundry detergent for hand-washing delicate fabrics too. It is suitable for all water temperatures as well as standard and high-efficiency washing machines. This dermatologically tested product is non-irritating, pH-balanced, and allergy-tested, making it suitable for delicate skin and even baby-safe.
You can go through this honest review on YouTube for more information on the ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Built-In Fabric Softener.
- Concentrated formula
- Non-toxic ingredients
- pH-balancing formula
- Dye-free
- Optical brightener-free
- Paraben-free
- Phosphate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Plant-based ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Overpowering floral fragrance
- Might trigger rashes or allergies
Pro TipIf you have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, avoid detergents with essential oils or extremely overwhelming fragrances because they can cause skin irritation.
6. Best Vegan:Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder
The Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder’s gentle, hypoallergenic formula makes it one of the best laundry detergents for eczema. This laundry detergent is formulated with organic ingredients like sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium sulfate, unrefined sea salt, and organic peppermint oil that gently clean the fabric.
The active natural ingredients remove tough stains with low suds without damaging high-efficiency machine sensors. It can be used to pretreat the stains by simply soaking the stained area with cool water, applying the paste of this sensitive laundry detergent, gently brushing, and allowing it to rest for a few minutes before rinsing. Make sure to check out this video on YouTube to learn more about the usage of Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder.
- Natural ingredients
- Formaldehyde-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Optical brightener-free
- Petrochemical-free
- Phosphate-free
- Paraben-free
- Bleach-free
- SLS-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- May fade colors
7. Best Bleach-Free:Woolite Delicates Hand Washing Laundry Detergent
The Woolite Delicates Hand Washing Laundry Detergent is a gentle cleaner best suited for hand-washing your delicate clothes. This laundry detergent is free from harsh ingredients and has a very mild formula that keeps your clothes fresh and vibrant even after 30 washes.
This gentle laundry detergent does not cause fading, stretching, or shrinking of the fabric, and is perfect for delicate fabrics like intimate wear garments, silk, or wool. It works well in all kinds of washing machines as well.
- Gentle on skin
- Leaves no residue
- Does not shrink the fabric
- Best suited for delicate and intimate clothes
- Bleach-free
- Phosphate-free
- Enzyme-free
- Thin and water-like consistency
- Mildly fragrant
8. Best For Baby Clothes:Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid
Charlie’s Soap Laundry Liquid is a gentle laundry detergent formulated without toxins or chemicals. It effectively removes tough stains, washes away unpleasant odor, removes oil, grease, and fats, and is suitable for cleaning delicate fabrics. This liquid detergent has a low suds formula that leaves your clothes soft and fresh for a longer time. The quick-rinse formula uses less water while washing a full load of clothes and does not leave behind any residues.
- Best suited for baby clothes
- Leaves no residue
- Low suds formula
- Eco-friendly formula
- Less consumption of water
- Added perfume-free
- Synthetic dye-free
- Brightening agent-free
- Bleach-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Pediatrician-tested
- Not suitable for high-efficiency washing machines
9. Best For Activewear:HEX Performance Clean Up Your Activewear Laundry Detergent
HEX Performance’s laundry detergent is specially formulated for washing activewear. The formula deeply cleans and breaks down the build-up and dirt in the tightly woven fabrics, leaving them static-, stain-, and odor-free. This fragrance-free laundry detergent keeps your activewear intact and maintains the vibrancy of the color. It works seamlessly in all washing machines.
- Designed for activewear
- Works in all washing machines
- Dermatologist-tested
- Biodegradable components
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Phosphate-free
- Vegan
- Overpowering fragrance
- Does not eliminate odor
10. Best Hypoallergenic-Formula: Botanical Origin Plant-based Laundry Detergent
The Botanical Origin Plant-Based Laundry Detergent is curated with a gentle formula that is hypoallergenic and does not irritate the skin. It is dermatologically tested for allergies, making it ideal for sensitive skin types. The product does not compromise on cleaning stubborn stains regardless of its mild formula. It can even remove stains from wine, coffee, and ink. It is a plant-based detergent with a scent of orange blossom and citrus leaves that keeps the clothes smelling fresh all day long.
- Dermatologist-tested
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Plant-based formula
- Prevents discoloration
- Easy to use
- Value for money
- Some might find the scent too strong
11. Best Eco-Friendly:Attitude Nature+ Technology Laundry Detergent
Make laundry day fun with the refreshing scent of the Attitude Nature+ Technology Laundry Detergent. This gentle laundry detergent deeply cleans your clothes and removes tough stains. Its advanced deodorizing formula infused with pink grapefruit fragrance ensures your clothes smell fresh. The plant-based, biodegradable ingredients are skin-friendly and hypoallergenic. It is designed to work in both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washing machines. The product has not been clinically tested on animals, making it an ideal choice for animal lovers as well.
- Eco-friendly
- Plant-based ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
- Phosphate-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Phenoxyethanol-free
- Dye-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Might trigger rashes
12. Best Fragrance:Rebel Green Fresh Laundry Detergent
The Rebel Green Fresh Laundry Detergent is a formula loaded with natural ingredients. Its concentrated formula eliminates odor and removes stains and dirt from clothes while staying gentle on the skin. This gentle laundry detergent maintains the texture and color of your clothes and prevents color fading.
The enchanting and refreshing fragrance of lavender and grapefruit makes your laundry chore an aromatic and soothing experience and leaves your clothes lightly scented. This mild fragrance does not aggravate even the most sensitive skin or cause any skin allergies.
- Plant-based ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Ammonia-free
- Petroleum-free
- Phthalates-free
- Phosphates-free
- Synthetic fragrances-free
- Dye-free
- Very thin consistency
The Bottom Line
Laundry detergents are often infused with certain dyes and chemicals that might harm sensitive skin. If you are someone with sensitive skin, you must invest in the best laundry detergents to prevent allergies or skin irritation. These listed detergents have a dermatologist-recommended and hypoallergenic formula free of preservatives, artificial dyes, and fragrances. They are enriched with plant-based ingredients that do not have any side effects on your skin. In addition, the gentle formula will prevent the color from fading from your clothes. You can opt for the All Free and Clear 4 in 1 Mighty Pacs, which clears off allergens and is quite compatible to use with other fabric softeners, the Persil ProClean Power-Liquid Detergent for Sensitive Skin, which offers optimum fiber care and freshness, and the ECOS Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Built-In Fabric Softener, which retains the natural fabric color and even soften the laundry. While buying these detergents, look for the label “free and clear.” These detergents will give you fresh and spotless clothes.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Pratyasha Ray, is a home and kitchen expert and understands the science of laundry detergents and how their residues on the fabric react on sensitive skin. She has handpicked the above-listed products following extensive research and in-depth analysis of customer reviews posted on trusted online platforms. These products do not leave any residues on the fabric and prevent skin irritation or allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some symptoms of detergent allergy?
Symptoms of detergent allergy include rashes, blisters, severe itching or irritation, scaly skin, dermatitis, or tiny bumps, swelling, and burning sensation.
Does fabric softener irritate skin?
Yes, indeed. If you have extremely sensitive skin, fabric softener can cause itchiness and irritation to your skin.
What is a gentle laundry detergent?
Gentle detergents are mild and specially formulated products that leave no residue on the cloth and do not irritate the skin.
Is tide detergent terrible for sensitive skin?
Not all tide detergents are terrible for sensitive skin. For example, you can safely use Tide Pods Free And Gentle Laundry Detergent even if you have sensitive skin. Only detergents that contain fragrances, preservatives, dyes, and other harsh chemicals can cause skin irritation, resulting in rashes, dermatitis, and itching.
Which laundry detergent is the best for eczema?
Unscented or fragrance-free detergents are the best detergents for eczema. You can safely try the Tide Pods Free And Gentle Laundry Detergent and the Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder.
Why do I feel itchy wearing freshly washed clothes?
Generic, harsh laundry detergent contains fragrances, preservatives, colors, and other compounds that can cause rashes in children and adults with sensitive skin.
Can you all of a sudden become allergic to laundry detergent?
Yes, laundry detergent can trigger the sensitive part of the skin, causing skin allergies. It can even happen with a detergent that you have been using for years.
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