Try our free symptom checker
Get a thorough self-assessment before your visit to the doctor.
Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by a dry, itchy, red skin; it is a skin disorder that afflicts many individuals around the globe. It results to dryness, skin itchiness, and skin inflammation that might be painful and unbearable at times. Since the skin of patients with eczema is more sensitive, many agents like chemicals detergents used in cleaning the clothes trigger flare of the condition. This is why it becomes matters of concern to look for the best detergent for use that is friendly for eczema treatment.
After researching and testing various detergents, we have identified the best detergent for eczema. The detergents have been made for gentle use on the skin especially to those with sensitive skins and do not contain harsh chemical.
Top 3 Best Detergents for Eczema
- Tru Earth Eco-strips Laundry Detergent
- Tide Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent
- Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear
It is usually a daunting task to look for a detergent that is skin friendly. Which is why, we have reviewed a variety of detergents to be able to come up with a list effective detergent for eczema. Check out the top-rated detergents that are safe to use when washing clothes for people with eczema.
Tru Earth Eco-strips Laundry Detergent
Editor's Choice
Feel the ultimate comfort on your skin with Tru Earth Eco-strips for eczema patients. This laundry solution is allergen-free to provide a gentle and non-irritating handling for the skin especially for the ones with sensitive skin. Discover cleaner, softer, more effective, earth-friendly laundry with Tru Earth Eco-strips in Fresh Linen scent today!
Revitalize your laundry routine with Tru Earth Eco-strips Laundry Detergent in Fresh Linen is a solution for people having eczema problems. This detergent provides a revolutionary approach in cleaning by ensuring that the task is done effectively while honoring customers’ delicate feelings.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
- The extra-long eight strips per pack guarantee maximum utility in terms of freshness and cleaning and at the same time has minimum adverse effects on the environment.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
One of the facts that we can state confidently is that we were personally faced with eczema issues; therefore, we encourage using Tru Earth Eco-strips as the ultimate detergent. Again, they are hypoallergenic to guarantee that they do not cause any form of a reaction on the skin during application.
These laundry strips uncork convenience without drawing the curtains down on the environment. The Fresh Linen fragrance makes your articles of clothing not only clean but gives a sweet aroma that gives a little class to the clothes. Say no more to the washing powder that contains blasts of chemicals and large detergent container and welcome Tru Earth Eco-strips.
Overall, Tru Earth Eco-strips Laundry Detergent in Fresh Linen 8 Strips is the best detergent for the eczema patients who desire effectiveness, environmental friendliness and skin gentleness.
If you need a gentle yet powerful product to wash your clothes and which is ideal for sensitive skin, this tide free and gentle liquid laundry detergent is ideal for you.
Pros
- It does not contain any dyes and perfumes and is recommended for people with sensitive skin.
- It is specially recommended by dermatologists, therefore it cannot be harsh on your skin.
- This detergent is strong enough to work on stains and dirt but it will not compromise to skin sensitivity hence referred to as gentle.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
- Some users have reported that this detergent is not effective on heavily soiled items.
We have been using Tide Free & Gentle for few months and up to now we are very satisfied with the product. It is not rough on our skin and does not lead to formation of rashes or itching on the skin. We also acknowledge that it is efficient in washing out stains and dirt off our clothes to give us clean clothes.
However, the measuring cap is not well designed in a way that you can easily read from. Sometimes it’s very difficult to distinguish where the line is; therefore, we have had to be very much attentive when using the detergent. The other thing we have discovered is that this detergent hardly removes strongly set stains and as such, one has to prewash the clothes.
If you are looking for a detergent that is gentle on your sensitive skin, count on Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear. SkinSAFE has approved it 100%, thus confirming that it is free from 100% of their primarily considered skin sensitivity irritants for those with eczema.
Pros
- This detergent is dye, perfume and preservative-free to be gentle on your skin but strong on stains and tough on stubborn odours.
- The formula produces fewer suds and effectively removes residues from bubbles; suitable for regular washing machines and the modern HE (High Efficiency) machines.
- This HE detergent has incorporated the reliable ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda to effectively clean clothes and reduce harming the skin.
Cons
- It is a bot expensive.
- The packaging is not very eco-friendly.
We have recommended this detergent for people with eczema because Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear is a compatible detergent for such people. It is clinically tested and free from any potential allergens which usually cause skin irritation thus it is friendly to be used on skin but very vocal on stains and foul smell. This detergent is also SkinSAFE certified 100%, meaning it is tested to be free of 100% of their top recommended skin allergens thus suitable for sensitive skins.
The new generation is low foaming and can be used on regular washing machines and the modern HE (High Efficiency) machines. This HE detergent borrows on the trusted ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda to provide a powerful cleaning on clothes without assaulting the skin.
However, it can be slightly expensive than other detergents in the marked. Also, the detergent is unscented and this may not be the favorite of some users who love taking scented detergents. Last but not the least, the packaging aspect is also not very much sensitive towards the environment.
All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is another detergent worth your time if you are looking for one that does not irritate the skin. It is a dermatologist, allergist, and paediatrician recommended unscented and hypoallergenic detergent.
Pros
- It is the number one dermatologist, allergist, and pediatrician-recommended detergent brand on all clothing.
- This means 2Xs more cleaning power than our all free and clear detergent, so you use less of it and yet it is gentle on the skin.
- Works in all washing machines including high efficiency (HE) washers.
Cons
- Some users report that it doesn't remove tough stains as well as other detergents.
- The detergent is not as effective on heavily soiled clothes.
In our experience, All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is ideal for those with problems of sensitive skin. It is not harsh on the skin as most soaps are yet effectively makes clothes clean. It does not contain any scent so this is perfect for those with sensitive sn overshadow: It also does not irritate the skin and it is hypoallergenic so that is a plus. Also, due to the high concentration of the detergent, one is able to use a smaller proportion per wash, therefore it is cheaper in the long run.
All in all, if you are in need of a non-toxic and still effective detergent that does not cause the skin to irritate, All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent will be a good option for you.
If you are seeking a mild yet potent laundry soap that does not cause irritation on the skin or harm the environment, then ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid is the recommended product.
Pros
- It is made from natural components such as coconut thus has a soft effect on the fabrics and the skin.
- Hypoallergenic and dermatological tested, therefore suitable for people with a sensitive skin and those with allergies.
- Safer Choice certified and biodegradable so it is environment friendly
Cons
- May not be effective on heavily soiled clothes or tough stains
- Some users may not like the lack of scent
We have been using ECOS Laundry Detergent Liquid for a couple of months now and we have not had any issue with it. Our garments are clean and smooth, and we like that it doesn’t irritate our skin when worn. We also like that is eco-friendly and does not contain any toxins and chemical compounds.
However, it is may not be very effective for items with very dirty areas or difficult stains which may require a pre-treat before washing. Also, some users may not appreciate that it does not have some smell, which may be due to no use of artificial fragrances.
If you are searching for a laundry detergent that would be gentle on your skin and / or if you are sensitive to chemicals the SWASH by Whirlpool, Liquid Laundry Detergent, Free & Clear, 83 Loads, 30 fl. Oz. The particular option of unscented is undoubtedly something that should be taken into account.
Pros
- With its unique 8x concentrated formula, you can get the results you want while using less laundry detergent.
- Made specifically to increase the power of your washing machine to fight stains.
- Precision Pour Cap directly gives the laundry liquid detergent for you and allows you to pour just the right amount.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the dispenser failing to work properly.
- It may not work well on tough stains as other detergents.
We recently used this detergent and and the outcome was pleasantly satisfying. The clothes came out very clean and fresh without that new chemical smell that most washing does to the cloths. We also embraced the fact that it has no perfumes, and dyes hence will suit those who have sensitive skins.
One of the most notable aspects of this detergent is the Precision Pour CapThis renders easy in portioning out the right amount of detergent needed without unnecessarily spilling it all over. Calling it a day another impressive thing that we realised was that for each bottle we received more loads because the product was now concentrated.
However, it is not very efficient for heavily soiled surfaces but the every day staining and spotting we tried it on was satisfactorily clean. Overall, the SWASH by Whirlpool and the Liquid Laundry Detergent Free & Clear, 83 Loads, 30 fl. Oz. Hypoallergenic for those who do not want strong smell of the detergent for their laundry.
As for the baby clothes washing we highly recommend the Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent for all mom with babies with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Stain-fighting
- Made with plant-derived and other thoughtfully chosen ingredients
- Safe for cloth diapers
Cons
- May not be effective on tough stains as some other detergents
- Some users may prefer a scented detergent
This detergent was rather pleasant because it has plant-derived cleaning ability, and is enzyme based. We have used it too to clean our baby’s clothing and it did not cause any rashes on our baby’s delicate skin. We also liked the fact that it is safe on cloth diapers as other detergents might lead to building up that decreases the diapers’ absorbency.
However, it may not clean as effectively some of the stronger detergent brands from ground-in dirt. Also, there are those users who may prefer a scented detergent from the one provided by Babyganics, which does not have a scent.
All Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent is perfect for tear free and gentle on skin cleansing if you are in search of baby friendly detergent. It is particularly made for the removal of stubborn stains but gentle enough for tender skin of the baby.
Pros
- It is mild on the skin and gentle enough for your baby’s bed linen, soft toys, and other baby’s wears.
- For hard stain of babies wash with Stainlifters which is powerful, concentrated washing powder that does not include unnecessary dyes that may harm sensitive skin of a baby.
- It is safe to be used in any washing machine and under any water temperature.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
- It has a lightly scented fragrance that might not be ideal for babies with extremely sensitive skin.
For the past few months, we have been consistently using all Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent and we are quite satisfy with it. It does not irritate my baby’s skin and is very efficient at cleaning stubborn stains off my baby’s clothes and diapers. There are no dyes used in the production of this item and this is good for our baby since she has sensitive skin.
The detergent is user friendly and very effective, you don’t need to use a lot of the product for washing to be effective. We have also realized that our babies’ clothes emit a fresh smell after washing them with this detergent not forgetting the fact that my baby always attract compliments because of the nice smell from this detergent.
All in all, we recommend all Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent to all parents who are searching for a soft and efficient detergent for washing their baby’s garments.
If it is hard to find a hypoallergenic product to do the laundry and at the same time, is effective to sensitive skin, then go for All Liquid Laundry Detergent.
Pros
- With OXI power, this detergent is great at brightening and whitening clothes.
- Packed with ingredients that deep clean but mild on skin this soap is ideal for those with eczema.
- The detergent is dye free and it does not contain any added fragrance making it a perfect choice for individuals with allergies.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
- May not be suitable for all washing machines.
We have been using this as our favourite detergent for sometime now and it really serves us well in the sense that it effectively cleans our clothes and leaves them smelling fresh and soft on our skin, especially for those of us with sensitive skin, this detergent has been more than kind to us. We preferred the OXI power because it is good at stain removal and whitening clothes; this particular brand is dye-free and does not contain any fragrance.
This enhanced formula also has the advantage of using less detergent to pull off an excellent cleaning job as compared to other brands. But there are two issues we have to make note of – the price of the detergent is a tad higher than the average brands, and the detergent isn’t compatible with all washing machines. Also, it is not as efficient as other brands to eliminate stubborn marks on the stain.
We recommend buying Tide Simply Free & Sensitive Liquid Laundry Detergent for people with eczema or sensitive skin. This detergent is free of all perfumes and is mildly harsh on the skin but is excellent in stain removal.
Pros
- No dyes or perfumes
- Gentle on skin
- Works in cold water
Cons
- May fade clothes faster than regular Tide
- Not specifically marketed towards eczema sufferers
Tide Simply Free & Sensitive Liquid Laundry Detergent will be very useful to those individuals who have sensitive skin. There are no added dyes and perfumes, yet it is mild on skin and effectively washes the clothes. Furthermore, it performs the expected cleaning with cold water, thus is environmentally friendly.
Some users have complained that the measuring cup becomes slippery and slips from their hands, however, we have not encountered such a problem. But it is something to bear in mind. However, some users complained that this detergent may cause the brightness of clothes to fade more quickly than regular Tide may do so, it is not so ideal especially for delicate and too brightly colored clothes.
Overall, Tide Simply Free & Sensitive Liquid Laundry Detergent is the best product for individuals suffering from eczema or sensitivity. It cleans clothes adequately gentle on the skin and is an environmentally friendly product that performs well in cold water.
ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent is safe, gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
Pros
- This detergent features only baby-friendly ingredients that are purer and milder to your baby’s skin compared to regular laundry soap.
- It is safe on HE and gentle on baby’s skin effectively washing synthetic and natural fabrics and removing dirt and stains on baby cloths.
- It is dermatologically tested, non-irritating, and free from any fragrances. Developed with colloidal oatmeal that is well known for its shield, soften and protect surface of skin which is suitable for users with eczema.
Cons
- The price may be too high for some users.
- Some users experienced an allergic reaction to the product.
We have used ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin and would testify that this is a useful product to use. From cleaning baby’s clothes, it thoroughly removes dirt hence cleaning the clothes without having to worry about those materials that may harm the skin of the baby. We like that it is an environmentally conscious product, it is vegan and they do not test on animals. It is also ECOLOGO Certified: environment friendly, and has low effect on aquatic organisms.
All in all, if you are searching for a baby friendly, safe, skin friendly and hypoallergenic laundry detergent to use for your baby’s delicate skin, ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent for Sensitive Skin is more than ideal.
For a highly effective laundry detergent that is gentle in light of the skin, we suggest Tide PODS Ultra OXI Free Laundry Detergent Pacs.
Pros
- Helps remove 99% of everyday stains (vs. Tide Original)
- Recommended by NEA and NPF
- Free of dyes and perfumes
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
- May not be effective on extremely tough stains
We like the Tide PODS Ultra OXI Free because of its cleaning capability. The stains were effectively eliminated on our clothes; this was done in a way that did not cause any skin nasty on our sensitive skin. The product is endorsed by both the National Eczema Association, and National Psoriasis Foundation, and this added to our confidence that the cream would be mild on skin.
Furthermore, the detergent does not have any dyes and perfume; thus suitable for people with allergies or sensitiveness to such components. The pods are completely soluble in any water hardness and compatibility with any make of washing machine.
Buying Guide
Ingredients
It's important to look at the list of its components. Do not use products with strong aroma, colorants, and chemical since they may cause skin rashes to delicate skin. It is best to go for mild and non-dyes products that do not contain chemical that may cause infections to a baby.
pH Balance
Another factor that might affect the effectiveness of a detergent is its pH level; the detergent’s pH level can also determine its relative safety for those with eczema-affected skin. Select a pH close to that of the skin which is about 5.5 or slightly lower since it is more beneficial for the skin and less likely to affect the skin barrier.
Formulation
The formulation of the detergent can also work for or against the improvement of eczema in a given individual. For instance, there are gentle diluted to be used during the light laundry cycle and others which contain moisturizing benefits for skins with rashes or that are too dry.
Packaging
Last but not the least is the aspect of packaging of the detergent. Try to find products with less or no packaging or plastics when possible and to select items that are also biodegradable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 dermatologist recommended laundry detergent?
The Tide Free & Gentle was voted by the Dermatology Times as the leading laundry detergent sought for by dermatologists. This is a non-allergic and non-irritant product especially designed for skin delicate especially for people suffering from skin ailments like eczema.
What is the best fragrance-free laundry detergent for eczema?
Some of the widely available fragrance-free and gentle laundry detergents that are safe for people with eczema include; Seventh Generation Free & Clear, All Free Clear, Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear. Eczema safe detergents are mild gentle on the skin and do not use any strict chemicals or fragrance that may harm the skin.
What should I wash with if I have eczema?
If you have eczema, you should use a gentle and non-fragrance washing powder. Further, it is advisable that one should not use fabric softeners and dryer sheets especially those with colours and fragrance because they are likely to cause eczema irritation. This is also important when washing your clothes, it is preferred you wash your clothes with warm water and not hot water which can be detrimental to your skin.
What is the best hypoallergenic laundry detergent?
Some of the popular hypoallergenic laundry detergents which are ideal for use with sensitive skin are tide free and gentle, Seventh Generation free and clear and all free clear. These detergents are not perfumed, colored or containing other contents that may cause skin rash to the users.
Are there any laundry detergents that can worsen eczema?
Yes, there is some laundry detergent that can be very detrimental to patients suffering from eczema. Laundry products that have added scents, colours and other materials that are likely to cause skin reactions should not be used by persons with eczema. When washing your clothes you should try to use a mild non-perfumed washing powder particularly if you have eczema.
Can laundry detergent cause eczema?
Even though laundry detergent does not cause eczema, it is vital to note that it might worsen the condition. Scented soaps, colorants and other additives that are in detergent may be abrasive on the skin and worsen the flare of eczema. To promote skin health especially for individuals suffering from eczema, one should avoid using very scorching water while washing clothes and in case one has to use a laundry soap then they should ensure that they use a very mild and preferably non-scented one.
Affiliate Disclosure:
The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.
Was this article helpful?