The Best Baby-Safe Detergents

One thing that often amazes new parents is just how often they have to run laundry loads of baby clothes. From meal times to spit up to blowouts and more, babies tend to go through multiple outfits a day.

And with how often you run those clothes, the detergent you choose matters. Sensitive baby skin can easily become irritated with the harsher chemicals and fragrances found in most everyday laundry detergents.

However, there are some safer, more gentle options out there. Here’s our quick guide on the best baby-safe laundry detergents.

What You Do and Don't Want

To find a baby detergent that is gentle but powerful, you want to make sure you look for something hypoallergenic, fragrance-free (unscented doesn’t always mean the same thing), and dye-free. Babylist also suggests you search for one that checks the plant-based box. While this isn’t essential, plant-based detergents are often more gentle baby skin.

In addition, brighteners, industrial-strength bleach, and laundry pods are a no-go. Pods may be quick and easy, but they present a choking and toxicity hazard for babies and young children.

So what do the experts recommend? Check out the list below.

Top Baby Detergent Picks

For a Natural Scent

While a bit pricey, this Thieves Laundry Soap has a strong fanbase. Thieves is a good option if you just can’t do without scent. As an essential oil, its fragrance is all natural and free of synthetic perfumes.

For Your Wallet

At only $6-7 per bottle, the All Free Clear and Up&Up Free + Clear detergents are both great options for getting the job done well enough while saving a few bucks. 

For a Plant-based Detergent

Plant-based detergents are better for baby’s skin and for the environment. If you love the sound of that, check out Tide Purclean or ECOS hypoallergenic liquid laundry detergent.

More Recommendations

  • Babyganics Detergent
  • Honest Detergent
  • Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent, Free & Clear
  • Tide Free & Gentle