The Best Detergent for Infants and Kids with Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a rising concern among parents—especially new ones. In the United States alone, over 9.6 million children under 18 are affected. That’s roughly 13% of kids nationwide, and this number has steadily increased over the past two decades.
For parents of infants and young children dealing with eczema, one key (and often overlooked) solution is simple: switching to a safer laundry detergent. Babies have thinner, more permeable skin than adults, meaning harsh chemicals in conventional detergents can easily absorb into their system, triggering irritation, rashes, and eczema flares.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose the best detergent for eczema-prone children—and how a simple switch can help soothe and protect your little one’s skin.
1. Understanding Eczema and Its Effects on Skin
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. It usually begins in infancy and often appears alongside allergies, hay fever, or asthma. It’s not contagious—but it’s deeply connected to the immune system and environmental triggers.
Common Triggers Include:
- 🧴 Harsh Products like soaps, bubble baths, and laundry detergents
- 🌬️ Environmental Irritants like dry air, pollen, and pet dander
- 🍞 Food Allergies, especially dairy, soy, and eggs
- 🌡️ Temperature Changes that cause sweating or skin dryness
- 👕 Detergent Residue and synthetic fabrics that rub directly against sensitive skin
Top 6 eczema triggers for infants 1.food allergies, 2. temperature changes, 3. harsh soap products, 4. environmental, 5. dry skin, 6. detergent residue
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2. Why Sensitive Skin Requires Special Care
Regular detergents are filled with synthetic fragrances, sulfates like SLS, dyes, and optical brighteners—all of which can cause or worsen eczema.
Even after washing, residue lingers on your baby’s clothes and blankets. For babies who spend most of their time swaddled or laying on fabric, that residue can trigger constant irritation.
The Safer Choice: Hypoallergenic and Free & Clear Detergents
Look for:
- ✅ No synthetic fragrances or dyes
- ✅ No sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- ✅ Free of preservatives and brighteners
- ✅ Natural, plant-based ingredients
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Things to avoid in baby detergent
3. The Best Laundry Detergents for Kids and Babies with Eczema
These are the top dermatologist-recommended and eczema-safe laundry detergents, ideal for baby clothes, cloth diapers, and even bedding.
1. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (Unscented Baby Mild)
- 🌿 Made with organic, natural ingredients
- 🚫 No SLS, fragrances, or dyes
- 👶 Gentle enough for direct skin contact
**How to Use:**
Use 1 tablespoon per load. Add baking soda or washing soda to the drum and white vinegar to the rinse cycle for extra softness.
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2. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent
- 🌱 Plant-based and dermatologist-tested
- 🧼 Free of dyes, fragrances, and optical brighteners
- ♻️ Biodegradable and widely available
> Best For: Busy parents who want a quick and reliable eczema-safe solution.
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3. Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Powder
- 🧴 Only 5 earth-derived ingredients
- 🚫 No harsh chemicals or allergens
- 🧺 Great for removing residue from previous detergents
> Best For: Parents using cloth diapers or looking for an ultra-clean powder option.
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Bonus Tips:
- Run an extra rinse cycle to eliminate detergent residue
- Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets—they often contain fragrances and irritants
- Wash with cold or warm water, not hot, to protect skin and fabrics
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4. Laundry Routine Tips for Managing Eczema
Here’s how to tweak your laundry process to be **eczema-friendly**:
- 🌀 Use the gentle cycle on your washing machine
- ❄️ Choose cold water washes to reduce irritation
- 💧 Always opt for the extra rinse setting
- 💡 Clean your machine monthly to prevent buildup
5 step eczema safe laundry routine
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5. Additional Tips for Eczema Care and Skin Health
Managing eczema isn’t just about detergent—it’s a holistic effort that includes:
💧 Consistent Moisturizing
Apply fragrance-free ointments after baths and before bed.
😌 Emotional Support for Parents
Caring for a child with eczema can feel exhausting. Take breaks, seek support, and know you’re not alone.
🌿 Holistic & Medical Care
Sometimes a combination of prescription creams and natural herbal care (like chamomile or calendula ointments) works best.
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6. Final Thoughts
Finding the right detergent for a child with eczema can seem small—but it has a big impact. By eliminating common triggers from your laundry routine, you protect your child’s immune system, mental well-being, and skin health.
As a mom who’s been through sleepless nights, doctor visits, and the confusion of sorting through labels—I want to empower you with safer choices.
You deserve peace of mind and your baby deserves comfort.
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What worked for your child’s skin? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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BONUS: Homemade Eczema-Friendly Laundry Detergent Recipe
Perfect for HE & Non-HE Machines
Here’s a simple DIY detergent using eczema-safe ingredients:
Ingredients:
✅ 1 cup Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Liquid Castile Soap
✅ 4 cups distilled water
✅ ¼ cup washing soda
✨ *Add separately to drum: 2 tbsp baking soda (cleansing) + 2 tbsp white vinegar (softening)
🛑 Tip: Don’t mix baking soda and vinegar in the bottle—they’ll cancel each other out!
3 ingredient laundry detergent recipe