If you’re having a little trouble with itchy, red skin, maybe it's time to find a new laundry detergent. After all, you don’t need a skin condition, such as eczema or contact dermatitis, to react poorly to laundry detergent. Many beauty products (from perfume to soaps) can flare us up, which is why finding the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin is a must. Babies, too, will require a gentle formula – so something non-bio and fragrance-free is your new best friend.
Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin at a glance
Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin
Best plastic-free detergent for sensitive skin
Best laundry detergent for allergies
So, what is sensitive laundry detergent – and how does it differ from the regular kind?
We spoke to sustainable cleaning guru, Catherine Green at the eco-friendly household cleaning brand, smol, about the importance of switching to sensitive laundry detergent. They will have been dermatologically tested, and most of them will be fragrance-free and non-bio, she says. Essentially, they don't contain any enzymes; though they can help with stains, enzymes don't agree with sensitive skin, especially if you are suffering from eczema, adds Catherine. More on pesky eczema in the FAQs.
From big brands (such as Persil and Fairy) to lesser-known, plant-based options (such as Ecover and Bio-D), Closer has scoured the net and helped you find the best laundry detergent for sensitive skin to help you get back on top of your washing, itch and irritation free. Look out for hypoallergenic formulas, as well as baby-safe options, too. Take our buyer's guide for a spin, with lots of tried and tested reviews. Keep scrolling for some helpful FAQs, too, thanks to smol.
Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin
Take a load off your mind – and your never-ending washing pile…
Tried and tested by our Homes Writer, Piper Huxley
Best laundry detergent for sensitive skin
Versatile and gentle, this Ecover Concentrated Non-Bio Zero Liquid has got you covered. Loved by us, this eco-friendly laundry liquid is perfect for your household's needs - from delicate to sensitive skin. Promising fabulous results for whites and colours, this sustainable Ecover detergent has a little secret. It's been formulated with no fragrance and no enzymes to minimise the risk of flaring skin up. How cool is that? Ecover's mission is loud and clear - and we couldn't be more thrilled...
Perfect for Piper's sensitive skin, she says: "I love my Ecover Non-Bio Laundry Detergent. As someone who wears a lot of delicate eco-friendly fabrics, this detergent handles my favourite garments with so much care. As a long-time allergy sufferer, I appreciate the fragrance-less/enzyme-less formula that minimises any risks of flaring up my sensitive skin. You can recycle the bottle or refill your supply at a local zero-waste shop. I love Ecover's waste-free, gentle approach to laundry."
Natalie Knowles, also a Home Writer at Closer, agrees, stating she loves it "because I have an allergy to laundry detergents, and this one doesn't upset my sensitive skin. Plus, a little goes a long way and has great eco-credentials."
Pros
- 0% fragrance and 0% enzyme formula: allergy-friendly and sensitive
- Our tester found it leaves no sense of itchiness when wearing clothes
- We love that it's created using plant-based biodegradable ingredients
Cons
- You don't get that fresh smell from your laundry unless you use a (skin-safe) scented fabric softener
Quantity | 1.43 L |
Fragrance | No |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 17 - 25p |
Tried and tested by our Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Charlotte Roszko
Budget friendly pick
Gentle yet fragranced, the Fairy Non-Bio Capsules for Sensitive Skin is our top budget pick. Kept safe in a box or pouch with a Child Lock, this Fairy detergent is safe from curious kiddies. Voted the No.1 brand for sensitive skin (from an online panel of parents), this laundry brand is perfect for all skin types for reliably soft and huggable clothes and bedding. Kind to clothes as well as your skin, the multi-compartment design ensures each ingredient is released into the wash at the right time.
Charlotte Roszko usually buys this detergent: "I have sensitive skin, so I always like to stick to what I know when it comes to laundry detergent. My go-to is Fairy’s Non-Bio Platinum Pods, which have always proven to be the best choice for my skin. The detergent leaves your clothes with a lovely, fresh smell, in addition to keeping them nice and soft. These capsules also contain extra stain remover - perfect for getting any pesky stains out of your clothes. I’ve never had any itchy skin after using this detergent, which I pair with Fairy’s fabric softener to keep my clothes fresh."
Pros
- No. 1 brand for sensitive skin and awarded Skin Health Alliance seal of approval
- Gently clean and look after your family's delicate skin - even in a cold wash
- Unique, multi-compartment design that provides concentrated cleaning power
- Easy to use - clothes directly into the drum and add your clothes on top
Cons
- Fragranced - so may not suit all sensitive skin
Quantity | 2 x 54 |
Fragrance | Yes |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 19 - 21p |
Tried and tested by our Insights Manager, Clare Bradley
Best plastic-free detergent for sensitive skin
smolproducts.com
Subscribe and save with the smol Non-Bio Laundry Pods. Whether fragranced or fragrance-free, this is a laundry revolution. Sustainably packaged and delivered directly to your home, this plastic-free pick comes with fewer chemicals. You can start with nine free washes, thanks to smol's trial for newbies. Simply pop your clothes in the drum and place smol on top. We love smol at Closer...
Being a busy mum on the go, Clare says: "I'll take anything that helps lighten the mental load, and smol does that for me. I use the smol non-bio plan, 72 tablets delivered right to my door every three months. We switched specifically as my husband and daughter suffer from eczema and I find this detergent soft and gentle without causing any flare-ups. The bonus is that the company is committed to being plastic-free. However, it's not overly scented and hasn't tackled stains to any huge degree."
Piper also tested these capsules: "What a fabulous detergent from a company with an important ethos. I love to buy products from B-Corps, due to their commitment to sustainability. Plastic-free and gentle on my eczema-prone skin, smol has impressed me. Even the fragranced capsule is great for me - and better for the planet. Love that the packaging is letterbox-friendly, too...
Pros
- Cleans powerfully and delivers a delicately fresh fragrance
- Posted through the letterbox in 100% plastic-free packaging
- Comes with powerful stain removal - perfect for messy little ones!
- Trial smol for free; stay in control of your detergent subscription
Cons
- You may need to use extra stain remover on hard-hitting spills
- Larger machines may need more than one pod
Quantity | Packs of 24 - may vary due to subscription service/demand |
Fragrance | Yes |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 24 p |
Tried and tested by our Homes Writer, Piper Huxley
Best laundry detergent for allergies
www.ethicalsuperstore.com
Whether hand-washing delicates or tackling tough stains in your appliance, the Bio D Concentrated Fragrance-Free Non-Bio Liquid is a gentle pick. Accredited by Allergy UK, this allergy-friendly formula is 100% naturally derived and perfect for caring for your kiddies, as well as those prone to eczema and other skin conditions. Thanks to its recyclable packaging, it's a sustainable option. We were lucky enough to test this Bio D liquid, which can be easily added to a wash ball...
Piper has used Bio-D for years: "I love Bio-D. I discovered them at university and used their lavender laundry conditioner for ages. Since then, my skin has changed and I'm much more sensitive, and much more prone to allergens and pesky enzymes. Making the switch to a non-bio and fragrance-free detergent (and fabric conditioner) was a big step. What's fresh laundry without the awesome smell? But I didn't have any problems with my eczema, so I was super happy overall. It's easy to measure out and easy to pop into the detergent drawer or in a laundry ball placed in the drum. I'm happy that the bottles are recyclable and that I can handwash eco fabrics, too, with ease. The fabric conditioner is thinner than expected and comes out a little fast - so be careful."
Pros
- Allergy Friendly awarded by Allergy UK
- Vegan, cruelty and 100% recycled packaging
- Good for both machine and hand washing
Cons
- Some customers say it's not as efficient as other brands for dirty loads
Quantity | 1 Litre |
Fragrance | No |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 24 p |
Best fresh linen sensitive detergent
Exceptional results, even at low temperatures, the plant-powered Miniml Eco Fresh Linen Liquid is another favourite of ours. For long-lasting fragrance and all-day freshness, this fresh linen formula is eco-friendly - free from any nasties and gentle on sensitive skin. It's suitable for all fabrics (including delicates) and is a zero-waste solution. You can return your empty bottles to Miniml or find the vegan and cruelty-free brand at your nearest refill shop. Single-use plastic is O.V.E.R.
Customers love how nice and "subtle" the fresh linen scent is. One customer says that it "leaves clothes smelling clean but not overpowering" - which is so good to hear. Not only is it said to be good quality or value, but the Miniml Laundry Liquid also has a plant-based (and very gentle) formula. Many customers confirm that it's perfect for sensitive skin, baby clothes and washing pet beds. Though a durable, effective pick, some customers have mixed opinions on the scent.
Pros
- Subtle fresh linen fragrance - yet gentle on sensitive skin
- Vegan, cruelty-free and British-made - with refills available!
- Excellent results on whites and colours - at all temperatures
Cons
- Some customers have mixed opinions on the scent
Quantity | 1 L |
Fragrance | Fresh linen |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 15 - 33 p |
Best value pack
If you're looking for good value, the Persil Non-Bio Liquid XL is the perfect match. With powerful stain removal, perfect for mud and stains, this pick works great for quick and cold cycles. Recognised by the British Skin Foundation, this dermatologically tested detergent leaves clothes fresh and clean - as well as being gentle on the skin and tough on dirt. It's perfect for families with young children and babies. Quick, easy and suitable for all washing machines, it provides long-lasting cleanliness.
Amazon UK loves this Persil Non-Bio detergent, granting it an impressive 4.6/5 stars from customer reviews. Many reviewers agree that the value for money, smell and washability are the strengths of this product. One customer even calls it "the best detergent" - for its quality and ability to keep clothes clean, soft, and smelling lovely. Not only that, customers love how easy it is to use and how long a bottle lasts. Good value for money? Yes, please. It's a shame you don't get a cup to measure it out. Despite this, it's a trusted brand and will protect even the most sensitive skin...
Pros
- Powerful stain removal, perfect for mud, food stains, and more
- Recognised by the British Skin Foundation for skincare safety
- Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin, safe for all family members
- Concentrated formula for effective cleaning with less liquid
Cons
- You don't get a cup to measure it out - we suggest purchasing one!
Quantity | 1.431 L |
Fragrance | Yes |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Unspecified. |
Price per wash | 11 - 20 p |
Mrs Hinch approved
It's no surprise that The Pink Stuff has taken the internet by storm. Our favourite influencer, Mrs Hinch, vouches for this snazzy-looking (and tough!) formula. Their Sensitive Non-Bio Liquid has been midwife-approved and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Providing seven days of lasting freshness with a fruity fragrance and effective stain removal (even on quick or cold washes), this detergent leaves clothes fabulously soft and fresh - not to mention sparkling clean. It's perfect for families, too, and those with skin that flares up out of nowhere. Iconic, if you ask us.
Customers like The Pink Stuff's detergent for its good value for money and smell. Not only is it said to be good for cleaning, but it also works exceptionally on whites. One customer commented that they use it for their doggie's dirty blankets and bed. They recommend a pre-wash or stain remover for the best results - but, everything comes out smelling "lush" and very clean. Another says they didn't know the brand made a laundry detergent (besides a great range of cleaning products) and is happy with this pick. However, customers would recommend a pre-wash for the best results.
Pros
- Delivers seven days of freshness from just one wash
- Midwife-approved and gentle on our sensitive skin
- Say goodbye to stubborn stains on colder washes
- The Pink Stuff is loved by cleaning guru, Mrs Hinch
Cons
- Customers would recommend a pre-wash for the best results
Quantity | 960 ml |
Fragrance | Yes |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 18 - 20p |
Best sensitive detergent sheets
Another plastic-free pick, if that's your thing. We think these Simple Living Eco Non-Bio Sheets, Coconut are perfect for travelling abroad, too, as they can be packed into your suitcase with no issues. Made in the UK with eco-friendly, recyclable packaging for a cleaner planet, this vegan detergent in "sheet form" is gentle on your fabrics and skin - no irritation and soft clothes. Ideal. It's notoriously easy to use (just shove a sheet in the drum - no hassle with measuring required) and works on stubborn stains (at any temperature). The Coconut scent sounds delightful, too...
Thanks to the dozens of reviews on Amazon, this Simple Living product is well-liked on the site. Many agree that the cleaning power, effectiveness and eco-friendliness of the laundry detergent are its strong points. They mention it works on low temperatures, too. Not only do customers love how "space saving" this pick is, but it's super gentle on the skin and our beautiful planet. One customer says the coconut scent isn't that strong but cleans well. Customers do not recommend the Spring Fresh scent. Many customers say that adding a scented fragrance conditioner really seals the deal.
Pros
- Perfect for sensitive skin and delicate fabrics, irritation-free!
- Effective on stains (no matter how stubborn) at any temperature
- Vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free, zero waste and travel-friendly
- Easy to use - safe on your skin, clothes and the planet, too
Cons
- Some customers don't like the Spring Fresh scent - so we recommend the coconut or unscented version for an irritation-free wash!
Quantity | 32 Sheets |
Fragrance | Coconut |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby-safe | Unspecified. |
Price per wash | 28 p |
Best hypoallergenic pick
Ocean-friendly formulas are IN. OceanSaver's Eco Non-Bio Capsules claim to be the first pod in the UK that doesn't harm aquatic life. Super awesome, we know. Not only that, but OceanSaver is completely plant-based and plastic-free. Though it's an eco formula, don't count it out. It can remove stains and freshen up your favourite garments at just 20 degrees Celsius. Super handy. Gentle on the skin (with its hypoallergenic formula), it's a convenient pick for the entire family - even little ones. It comes with a fresh-smelling scent, and you can subscribe and save. Gorge.
Customers love OceanSaver's laundry pods. Offering excellent cleaning capabilities and a hypoallergenic formula for sensitive skin, this laundry pod pick is one of our favourites. Whether used on a small or large load, for a small refresh or an overhaul of soiled, muddy garments, it's not bad value. But, some customers' opinions do differ - especially when you take the environmental impact into account. These OceanSaver capsules are a powerful, child-proof, gentle and ethical option for your laundry. Plus, customers love the "ocean mist" scent - very subtle, but pleasant.
Pros
- Compact, easy-to-use pods with no nasties or plastic waste
- Space-saving, with bulk or subscription options for 60+ washes
- Vegan, cruelty-free formula but with powerful cleaning potential
Cons
- Some customers didn't find them excellent value
Quantity | 34 |
Fragrance | Yes - Baby blossom |
Non-bio | Yes |
Baby safe | Yes |
Price per wash | 29 - 38 p |
Which is our favourite detergent for sensitive skin?
Our top pick is the Ecover Non-Bio for its commitment to sustainability and skin-safe results.
Laundry detergent for sensitive skin FAQs
What is the best detergent for eczema?
Having eczema is a NIGHTMARE. I've had it ever since I was little. I have to be super careful - from what detergent I use to what beauty products I pick out. My dry skin needs to be moisturised yet exfoliated (thanks, strawberry legs), but can't get too irritated. Ugh, I could go on about this forever. But, I digress. Finding the right laundry detergent for eczema or, indeed, any skin condition or allergy is super important. After all, there are many triggers - and suddenly, you're flaring up.
My advice: find one that works for you and stick with it, no matter what. Catherine Green also has some fantastic things to say when it comes to atopic dermatitis - (eczema, to you and me):
Avoid perfumed detergents and stick with fragrance-free.
Find a brand that dermatologically tests its products.
Steer clear from powder detergents as they can leave irritating residue
Stick to a non-bio capsule or liquid - and scroll back to our round-up 😛
Is it safe to use sensitive skin detergent for baby clothes?
Yes - it is, says Catherine, as many detergents will be doing this "automatically". She adds that it comes down to the brand and its good quality. Because your baby's skin is still developing and is way more delicate than adult skin, it's important to choose wisely. Please don't break the bank, but don't buy a cheap brand unless you're sure it's baby-safe, as well as mum-approved. Non-bio, fragranced or fragrance-free, it will give you some peace of mind - giving an effective clean and safe for skin.
Is bio detergent bad for sensitive skin - or is this a myth?
Some of you may be in two minds about non-bio detergent. As per, there is way too much information floating around the internet. So, Catherine has helped us to demystify detergent.
Enzymes are used in biological detergents to help remove stains. Catherine says that if they aren't "properly rinsed off" after a wash, they will come into contact with your sensitive skin. And, if you're like me - and suffer from a host of skin issues - then these enzymes can cause mild flare-ups. That being said, Catherine adds that it's "not a one-size-fits-all situation."
Believe it or not, not all of those with sensitive skin will flare up from bio detergents. For example, smol's bio detergent capsules may be sensitive skin friendly (for some) as it "uses lower levels of added chemicals per wash than the big brands". Closer thinks it's going to be a case of trial and error, finding what works for your family best. The problem is that testing lots of new laundry detergents will get expensive alongside your Mrs Hinch-approved laundry drying hack. Catherine suggests those with sensitive skin should avoid bio altogether - but "it's not a hard and fast rule".
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Gardens and Wellness Product Writer for Closer, specialising in interior design and wellness. When she’s not writing about homeware trends or mindfulness, she’s at yoga or tending to her houseplants.