Best laundry detergents for babies as recommended by parents
Protecting your baby's sensitive skin and attaining fresh, clean laundry can be a delicate balancing act. That's why we've collated a triple-vetted 2023 list of laundry detergents recommended by real parents that are effective and gentle on your baby's skin.
By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Feb 28, 2023
There are few things you can guarantee when you become a parent. The first is that you will always be tired, and the second is that your washing basket will always be full. Babies get through a considerable amount of clothes, not only outgrowing them rapidly but requiring anything from two to five outfit changes a day. Add to that the fact that most baby clothes are white or pale. Well, stains become almost impossible to remove. From nappy explosions to weaning experiments, picking the best laundry detergent for babies is essential.
However, the market is saturated with options that claim to be effective against stains and gentle on delicate baby skin—leaving first-time parents overwhelmed. Do they choose bio or non-bio? Is baby laundry detergent even necessary? At what age should they stop using it? Which is the best laundry detergent for babies? These are all valid questions that have been asked on our forums time and again. So, to help you make an informed decision, like our guide to the best laundry detergent, we started by researching what parents were looking for. Subsequently, we found that new parents wanted cost-effective, affordably-priced products with stain-lifting power free of harsh chemicals. A happy side effect of this is that you'll find that many of the laundry detergents on this list can also help avoid unwanted skin irritation, allergies or eczema flare-ups.
Once we had established what we were looking for, we took to the Mumsnet forums and investigated which laundry detergents were loved by parents and their babies. With over 10 million unique monthly users, it is the perfect place to seek un-biased advice and independent views on consumer products. We use it to inform all our articles, from the best tumble dryer to the best steam iron to the best washer dryer. We then cross-referenced our findings with experts' opinions and analysed each product's consumer reviews to cut through the noise and give you an honest, up-to-date guide to the best laundry detergent for babies available in 2023.
Here are the best laundry detergents for babies in 2023.
Best laundry detergent for babies: At a glance
1. Best overall laundry detergent for babies: Fairy Non-Bio Gel
RRP: £10 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 888ml | Number of washes: 24 | Scented: Yes - Baby Fresh | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-bio | Cost per wash: 41p
What we love
- Voted No1 laundry brand for sensitive skin
- Dermatologically accredited by the Skin Health Alliance
- Effective even at cool temperatures
- Choice of formats depending on your preference
What to know
- If you or your baby are sensitive to fragrance, this one is scented
What Mumsnet users say
“We only ever used Fairy Non Bio Gel. No smell to me. I'm not a fan of strong smelling washing powder to use a generic term.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter HappyMummy12345)
"For babies things and even now they're all older I have always used Fairy Non Bio (liquid is best to use and cheaper per wash than powder, capsules etc) and either comfort pure softer, Fairy softer or a shops own sensitive softener. It's the best I've ever found that will be nice and soft for baby and smells amazing too so would highly recommend." (Tried and trusted by Mumsnet user Anfield11)
Our verdict
As our best laundry detergent for babies, Fairy Non-Bio is the most recommended detergent by Mumsnetters on our forums. Tried and trusted by parents and boasting many positive reviews and 5* ratings on Amazon, it is a staple product for many families used religiously alongside our best fabric softener, Fairy’s own.
Available in three formats – liquid, gel, powder or pods – it is gentle on babies' sensitive skin whilst offering the cleaning power necessary to lift even the most stubborn stains. From baby food to spit-up, Fairy is effective even at cold temperatures and is free from harsh chemicals that can leave an irritating residue on clothes. Mumsnetters also particularly mentioned how it is safe to use if your children have skin conditions like eczema, and that’s because it has been extensively dermatologically tested and accredited by the Skin Health Alliance. It is the number one brand for sensitive skin for a reason! Loved for its classic subtle yet refreshing 'baby fresh' scent, it comes in a 100% recyclable bottle with a clip-on dosing cap included, making it easy to use and simple to store.
2. Best detergent for babies and their families: Persil Non-Bio Washing Powder
RRP: £11 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 3.85kg | Number of washes: 77 | Scented: Yes - Fresh | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 14p
What we love
- Suitable for the whole family and sensitive skin
- Approved by the British Skin Foundation
- Tough on stains, even at cool temperatures
- 100% recyclable pack
- Available in multiple formats
What to know
- If your baby is sensitive to perfume, you may prefer to choose a product that is fragrance-free
What Mumsnet users say
“My son suffers from eczema, and we have found Persil Non-Bio the best so we use that on everyone's clothes including newborn daughter. No fabric conditioner required.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user OhToBeASeahorse)
"In my experience, Persil Non Bio POWDER is the only one worth using." (Rated by Mumsnetter rabbit123)
Our verdict
If your laundry basket is overflowing with more than baby grows, our best laundry detergent for babies and their families is Persil Non-Bio. In tight competition for our top spot, this is a parent-endorsed detergent that is gentle and effective.
Renowned for its stain-busting power, even on a cold wash cycle, it’ll easily remove ketchup from whites and paint from school jumpers without needing skin-irritating ingredients. So you won’t have to separate your wash loads or leave those dreaded stains to soak. Approved by the British Skin Foundation, you can buy Persil’s formula in liquid form or as a box of pods based on your preference. For eco-friendly brownie points, their packaging is 100% recyclable and uses bio-degradable ingredients that are cruelty-free. While it's pretty pricey initially, buying in bulk can save money in the long run and means you won't run out for a while.
3. Best laundry detergent for babies with eczema: Surcare Non Bio Fragrance Free Laundry Powder
RRP: £8 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 1.625kg | Number of washes: 25 | Scented: No -Fragrance-free | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 54p
What we love
- Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested
- Approved by Allergy UK
- Recommended by Doctor's for babies and families with skin conditions
- Effective against stains
What to know
- More expensive per wash than other detergents
What Mumsnet users say
“It was the only one I could use to control daughter's eczema. They make a fragrance-free fabric conditioner too!” (Reviewed by ElvisPresleySideburns)
"I use the Surcare range of laundry detergent and softener because I have delicate skin and an allergy to artificial fragrance. My dermatologist reckons these will be gentle enough for even the most delicate baby skin." (Tried and tested by KatraAllandra)
Our verdict
If your baby or child suffers from allergies or skin conditions such as eczema, extra caution will be needed when selecting your bath and laundry products to ensure they are gentle on sensitive skin. Traditional washing detergents often contain enzymes and perfumes that can cause irritation and flare-ups, which is not only incredibly uncomfortable but can also lead to many sleepless nights for you and your baby.
Dermatologically tested with a seal of approval from Allergy UK and recommended by Doctors, many Mumsnetters reported that Surcare was the only brand that didn’t irritate their child’s sensitive skin - with a gentle formula that contains 0% fragrance, enzymes, dyes or acidic ingredients. However, gentle doesn’t mean weak – Surcare laundry detergent is effective at removing stains, too, even at 30 degrees, so you won't need to repeat the wash cycle to see great cleaning results. And as if all of that isn’t enough, it claims to clean your washing machine and your clothes simultaneously, ticking one more item off your to-do list.
4. Best eco-friendly laundry detergent for babies: Ecover Non-Bio Laundry Liquid
RRP: £7 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 1.5L | Number of washes: 42 | Scented: Yes - Lavender and sandalwood | Bio or Non-Bio: Non Bio Cost per wash: 16p
What we love
- Contains cruelty-free, biodegradable, plant-based ingredients
- Refills are available and the bottle is made from recycled plastic
- Formula is suitable for sensitive skin, but tough on stains
What to know
- Fragrance can be strong
What Mumsnet users say
“I love Ecover’s environmental ethos and the fact that their products are not tested on animals, plus the fresh scent is amazing and lingers on the fabric – it's lovely to get a nice whiff of it every now and then.” (Reviewed by Mumsnet user Candyperfumegirl)
“I have three young kids and hard-to-get-out stains are part of daily life, but Ecover performed amazingly and left everything really clean and soft!" (Tried and tested by BigGrannyPants)
Our verdict
Finding effective eco-friendly laundry swaps is important, with discussions about climate change becoming increasingly unavoidable and urgent. That’s why finding products focused on saving the planet and keeping your clothes clean is essential to many Mumsnetters. As our most recommended eco-conscious brand on our forums, Ecover’s Non-Bio Laundry Liquid is our best eco-friendly laundry detergent for babies.
Having been tested by 250 Mumsnetters in 2017, many reported being surprised at the cleaning power of this liquid detergent. Made from plant-based, biodegradable ingredients that are cruelty-free, Ecover’s Non-Bio is suitable for sensitive skin and can tackle the most severe of nappy explosions, leaving behind its fresh lavender and sandalwood scent. It even keeps your whites from greying, meaning white babygrows stay that way longer. Sealed in a recyclable plastic bottle, we’d recommended purchasing one of their cost-effective 5L refills instead of putting it out for collection. And if you’re not a fan of liquid detergent, there's a washing powder alternative for you to try, too!
Read next: If you're interested, our guides to the best mould removers and best washing machine cleaners have eco-friendly alternatives, too!
5. Best subscription laundry detergent for babies: Smol Non-Bio Laundry Capsules
RRP: £5 | Buy now from Smol
Key specs
Size: Pack of 24 tablets | Number of washes: 24 | Scented: Fragrance-free (fresh and clean also available) | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 22p
What we love
- Delivered direct to your door
- Subscription can be changed easily based on your needs and budget
- Cruelty-free and eco-friendly
- 100% money back guarantee
What to know
- Only available as pods
- Not available in supermarkets
What Mumsnet users say
“I’ve been using them for years. The laundry pods are small enough for the box to be posted through the letterbox. Their packaging is plastic-free and you manage your deliveries online.” (Recommended by Warmduscher)
"I like the Aldi Almat too but just switched to Smol deliveries to cut down on packaging and I'm happy with it. If you like lovely spells then you can do that with softener. I don't use softener as I don't like the string smells. I'm happy with a fresh detergent smell but I know most people prefer a scent. I think if your skin tolerates most detergent then go fit a cheaper one and splash out on softener." (Tried and trusted by oohmyback)
Our verdict
If you’re trying to be a savvy shopper and take control over your bills, a Smol laundry subscription can offer both flexibility and value for money. Unlike most laundry brands sold via supermarkets, Smol is only available online, cutting out the middleman to keep costs down.
Smol delivers laundry pods straight to your door in sustainable, plastic-free and recyclable ‘letterbox’ packaging. Oh, and that packaging also comes with a child lock, so little hands can't get inside. How often you receive your delivery is based on your washing routine, with the ability to cancel, pause or delay your delivery at any time. They also offer a free trial (nine washes)to try before you commit. Whilst not made specifically for babies, Smol Non-Bio laundry detergent uses lower levels of added chemicals per wash compared to other capsule brands, making it a gentle option for the whole family. There is also a choice of fragrance or fragrance-free, the latter of which is more suited for sensitive skin.
6. Best baby laundry detergent for stains: Napisan
RRP: 10 for two | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 800g (per box)| Number of washes: Approx. 27 washes (30g dosage) | Scented: No - Fragrance-free | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 37p
What we love
- Anti-bacterial stain remover
- Effective on a cold wash
- Can be use in a pre-soak
What to know
- Needs to be added alongside your standard laundry detergent so it can become expensive
What Mumsnet users say
“Saw this and wanted to add that with my son I use a Non-Bio detergent + fabric softener, but I also put a dose of Napisan in too. Baby's clothes are generally being washed because they're covered in poo, wee or vomit, and the Napisan is not only good as a stain remover but as a disinfectant too. Do a load to check it's ok on your baby's skin, but it's non-bio and was fine for my son - really gets rid of those poo stains too!” (Tested by Mumsnetter BionicEmu)
“Think about getting some Napisan. God send! Any pooped clothes went into a bucket with Napisan for a soak overnight and then into a standard wash when I was ready for the next load. You can also add it into your washing machine with your usual powder. Got all the poop out and kept dd's whites properly white!!” (Vetted by Mumsnet user ButtonBoo)
Our verdict
When it comes to removing the most stubborn poo or food stains, Napisan is a brand that is mentioned time and time again by Mumsnet users. From freshening up whites to eliminating the results of the dreaded nappy explosion, Napisan brightens whites, removes stains and kills 99.9% of bacteria.
Simply pop soiled clothes in a bowl with Napisan for a couple of hours and watch the stains disappear, or add to your regular detergent and wash cycle at 30 degrees. Although it is more expensive than other brands, it is worth the higher price, especially if you're stuck in a never-ending stomach bug loop now that kids are back in school.
7. Best value laundry detergent for babies: Splosh Non-Bio
RRP: £5| Buy now from Splosh
Key specs
Size: 430ml | Number of washes: 23 washes | Scented: Yes - Peony and apple blossom | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 21p
What we love
- Affordably priced and cost-effective, available as a subscription
- Has a clever cap that measures out the perfect amount every time you pour
- Supersize refill bottle available
- Dermatologically tested, cruelty-free, vegan friendly and environmentally friendly
What to know
- Not available in the supermarkets
What Mumsnet users say
"I use www.splosh.com/. You buy a set of plastic bottles but then they send you refills (some need you to add water to at home), so environmentally friendly. Not animal tested/no animal ingredients. I like lavender/chamomile laundry detergent and fab con. Also use the washing up liquid, kitchen and bathroom sprays." (Suggested by Mumsnet user Mcnorton)
Our verdict
Splosh was voted Britain's best non-bio laundry detergent by Good Housekeeping in 2022 and was recommended several times by Mumsnet users on the forum. Of note were its recyclable, refillable pouches, colour retention and stain-removing abilities (which included removing tomato puree from cotton).
Only available online via a subscription service, which, let's be honest, is a bit of a pain; their non-bio option is gentle on sensitive skin and good value for money. The initial bottle of value laundry detergent is priced at 15p per load and is refillable using their Super Size refill pouches (which will be recycled if you return eight pouches). If taking care of your baby's skin and the environment at the same time is essential to you, then choose this vegan-free and cruelty-free option, which is also available as a washing powder.
8. Best bulk-buy laundry detergent for babies: Faith in Nature Laundry Liquid
RRP: £24 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 5L| Number of washes: 150 washes | Scented: Yes - Aloe vera and rosemary | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 4p
What we love
- Works at cooler temperatures
- Great value for money
- Natural ingredients and scent
- Vegan friendly and cruelty-free
What to know
- Not as effective on stains
- More effective on smaller washes
What Mumsnet users say
"I also love the Faith In Nature laundry liquid." (Tried and tested by Yellowbutterfly1)
"Faith in Nature laundry liquid. Not tested on animals. I have used it for about 16 years (my child had eczema as a baby)." (Vetted by ItsInTheSpoon)
Our verdict
With the skyrocketing cost of living, buying laundry detergent in bulk can be a money-savvy move, so we’re recommending Faith in Nature’s Aloe Vera and Rosemary Laundry Liquid as our most cost-effective laundry detergent for babies. Made from all-natural ingredients with essential oils, you can choose between a 5L bottle (150 washes, £23.74) or a 20L bottle (600 washes, £71.35) that could last you and your family for months before it needs refilling.
Rated by Mumsnetters for its fresh scent, eco-friendly ethos and hypoallergenic formula, it is a brand that has been around for 48 years and has the highly sought-after approval of the Vegan Society. The catch? Some reviewers suggest adding more than the recommended amount to increase effectiveness on heavily soiled items. However, others note that they prefer to save it for refreshing everyday washes. Regardless, it is excellent value for money and safe to use on your baby's clothing.
9. Best fragrance-free laundry detergent for babies: Bio-D Concentrated Washing Powder
RRP: £9 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 1kg | Number of washes: 34 | Scented: No - Fragrance-free | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 26p
What we love
- Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested
- Large pack sizes with biodegradable packaging
- Cruelty-free and eco-friendly
What to know
- Dosing may take a while to master
- Some reviewers noticed an increase in static
What Mumsnet users say
"I like BioD, they rank high for being ethical and eco-friendly and it makes my washing smell fresh." (Suggesteed by Mumsnetter Madratlady)
“The only thing I use is Bio D. For scent, I sometimes add in essential oils but only if I can be bothered!” (Rated by Bookworm19)
Our verdict
Bio-D’s Concentrated washing powder is our best fragrance-free laundry detergent for babies and is another popular environmentally-friendly choice recommended by Mumsnetters. Available for purchase in either a 1kg or 2kg biodegradable bag, dosing might take a little while to perfect. However, once you do, Bio-D’s laundry detergent is sure to become a staple household product in no time.
Approved by Allergy UK, Bio D’s hypoallergenic formula is safe to use on a baby’s skin without any perfumed irritants or chemicals to cause rashes. It uses 100% natural, plant-based ingredients. It’s MIT (Methylisothiazolinone), BIT (Benzisothiazolinone) and MI (Methylisothiazolinone and its relatives) free, all of which have been linked to allergies and severe reactions and can be found in most cosmetics and household products. Don't worry, though. Their formula is still tough on stains and will make light work of your laundry pile.
10. Best laundry detergent for cloth nappies: Bambino Mio Natural Nappy Cleanser
RRP: £4 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 750g | Number of washes: Approx. 12 | Scented: Yes - Baby Fresh | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 31p
What we love
- Cleans, freshens and deodorises reusable nappies and other baby clothes
- Ideal for stain removal treatment
- Anti-bacterial and effective at low temperatures
- Contains no enzymes, synthetic perfumes, chlorine bleaches or optical brighteners
What to know
- Higher cost per standard wash
What Mumsnet users say
"I did wash at 60 and use Bambino Mio washing powder which was very good." (Tried and tested by nellie12)
Our verdict
If you’ve invested in eco-friendly reusable cloth nappies for your baby, you’ll be keen to keep them clean, germ-free and smelling fresh, and Bambino Mio’s Natural Nappy Cleanser promises to do just that.
Free from enzymes, synthetic perfumes, chlorine bleaches or optical brighteners, you can use it in your washing machine, for hand washing or as a pre-wash stain treatment, without worrying about how it will affect your baby’s sensitive skin. It is even effective at colder temperatures and safe to use on all of your family’s laundry, so you won’t have to buy an additional detergent. That said, it is not as cost-effective as other alternatives, so it is worth shopping around for places to buy it in bulk.
11. Best alternative to laundry detergent for babies: EcoEgg Laundry Egg
RRP: £10 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 16 x 20cm egg | Number of washes: Up to 210 | Scented: Fragrance-free/Fresh Linen/Spring Blossom | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 4p
What we love
- Cost-effective, lasts for 210 washes
- Eco-friendly and kind to your washing machine
- Hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin
- Approved by Allergy UK and approved by The National Eczema Society
What to know
- Some concern about mould build-up within the Ecoegg
What Mumsnet users say
“We use a EcoEgg for two main reasons: one, the cost and two, allergies. They are great, I’ve been using for two to three years without problems. We just add conditioner.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter AlteredHalfling)
Our verdict
Recommended by Mumsnet users, the EcoEgg is an innovative product that is kind to the environment, your skin and your pocket. As our best alternative to laundry detergent for babies, the EcoEgg lasts for 210 washes and uses powerful, refillable cleaning pellets to lift stains. To use, just place it on top of your wash load and run the machine on your usual cycle for clean laundry every time.
Approved by Allergy UK and The National Eczema Society, EcoEgg can remove dirt and stains without any enzymes, harsh chemicals or perfumes that can irritate sensitive skin. For the eco-conscious, it's eco-friendly, too, and estimated to save you up to 40 single-use plastic bottles from detergent and fabric conditioner every year! Built to last for up to ten years, you won’t have to worry about it breaking in your machine, though we’d recommend cleaning it regularly and leaving it to dry after use to prevent mould from growing inside the egg.
12. Best alternative to laundry detergent for sensitive skin: Ecozone Soap Nuts
RRP: £9 for 1kg | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size: 1kg bag | Number of washes: 330 washes | Scented: No - Fragrance-free | Bio or Non-Bio: Non-Bio | Cost per wash: 3p
What we love
- Naturally and sustainably sourced - No toxic chemicals
- Hypoallergenic and approved by Allergy UK
- Eco-friendly, cruelty-free and great value
- Safe for people with nut allergies
What to know
- Not effective on heavily soiled loads
What Mumsnet users say
"Have you tried soapnuts? My daughter suffers of eczema too and found soapnuts for laundry to be brilliant." (Tried and trusted by Abeautifulstar1)
"I use soapnuts and have for years. I absolutely love them! They're eco friendly and hypoallergenic. 1 bag last us (2 adults, 3 children) a whole year so very cost effective. They wash clothes well too. The only thing that was strange at first was that they are scent free so laundry doesn't have a 'clean' smell. We still use fabric softener for this reason but when I don't put it in I don't notice a difference in terms of softness." (Reviewed by Mumsnet user whoami24601)
Our verdict
Harvested from the Sapindus Mukorossi tree, found in the Himalayas, Soap nuts are a type of berry whose dried husks contain a natural cleaning agent called Saponin, which is released when they absorb water. It is important to distinguish that it is a dried berry despite the use of the word nut, and therefore it is safe for those with nut allergies. Free from toxic chemicals and sneaky fragrances, they’re 100% natural, biodegradable and cruelty-free, making them the ultimate eco-friendly detergent alternative.
If you’ve never heard of them, you aren’t alone. However, Mumsnetters that have used them love them and highly recommend them for their hypoallergenic properties that are gentle on sensitive skin. Arriving in a compostable bag, 1kg of soap nuts is enough for 330 washes, which is excellent value for money when you consider the price. To use them effectively, follow the dosage chart on the packaging and put the right amount of soap nuts into a small bag (one is provided with the pack). Then, place this on top of your laundry in your washing machine and run your normal programme. When it is finished, you remove the bag of soap nuts and leave it dry - you can reuse them four times! If you prefer your clothes to smell lovely and fresh, a few drops of essential oils is a trick recommended by Mumsnet users, too.
Do you need special laundry detergent for babies?
Babies have very new and delicate skin, so whilst you do not have to use a specific baby laundry detergent, many parents choose to do so for peace of mind.
Traditional laundry detergents are likely to contain harsh chemicals, and the perfumes and residue left on clothes after washing can irritate sensitive skin. Baby laundry detergents are generally milder, chemical-free, and often fragrance-free or mildly scented.
What to consider when choosing baby washing detergent
There is a wide range of laundry detergents to choose from, so you need to consider the following when choosing between them:
- Skin conditions or allergies: Does anyone in your family have sensitive skin, eczema or allergies? Some baby laundry detergents are specifically targeted at those with sensitive skin so that they can be effective for more than one member of your family.
- Fragrance: Perfumes and fragrances are a personal choice– some people love the fresh baby scent, whilst others find it overbearing. Some like that a smell helps them to identify clean clothes, whilst others prefer a fragrance-free option. Regardless of personal preference, fragrance-free detergents are less likely to cause skin irritation.
- Environmental impact: How important are the brand's eco-friendly credentials to you? Does the detergent use plant-based ingredients? How sustainable is the packaging, and can it be recycled? Are refills available? Eco-friendly products are a hot topic as temperatures continue to rise. Small changes to reduce your carbon footprint can make a difference in the long run.
- Type of detergent: What type do you prefer - liquid, powder or pods? Are hand-washing options vital to you, or are you looking for machine detergents only?
- Cost: How much are you willing to spend? The cost of living crisis has hit family budgets nationwide, so eco-friendly brands with higher prices might be too expensive. Mainstream non-bio brands can be a competitive alternative, as they are frequently included in online deals and offers.
- Number of washes per bottle: Don't just pick up the detergent with the lowest price; ensure you check the number of washes. A large pack might be more expensive, but it could do double the washes, making it more cost-effective over time.
What is the best laundry detergent for babies?
Our time, as parents, is limited without spending hours washing our baby's clothes. So, our list prioritised detergents that were safe for sensitive skin, designed for babies, and effective at removing stains. Additional considerations included cost-effectiveness, pack size, sustainability and various budgets.
Our winner was Fairy Non-Bio, a trusted brand with many positive reviews on Mumsnet forums and retailer sites. It’s suitable for the whole family, so there's no need to separate clothes before washing, and it is tough on stains, even at cool temperatures.
What washing detergent is best for baby clothes?
For a laundry detergent specifically for baby clothes and cloth nappies, Napisan or Bambino Mio’s Natural Nappy Cleanser are two products designed with babies in mind.
What is the safest laundry detergent for babies?
The safest laundry detergent for babies would arguably be Surcare’s washing powder. Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested and highly recommended by doctors, whether or not your baby has a skin condition, you can rest assured there are no irritants or harsh chemicals in their formula.
How often should you wash baby clothes?
Whereas adults may wish to wear an item of clothing multiple times, it is recommended that you wash your baby’s clothes after every wear to avoid picking up dirt or dust that could irritate their skin, and with visible stains a daily occurrence, the chances are you will want to do this anyway.
At what age should you stop using a baby detergent?
Generally, when they reach a year old, your baby will be less sensitive to some irritants found in traditional laundry detergents. It’s not an exact science, however.
If your baby has sensitive skin, allergies or eczema, you may wish to continue using a milder, gentle detergent for longer or separate their clothes from the rest of the family.
What are the different types of baby laundry detergent?
Baby laundry detergents come in various types, including powder, tabs, pods and liquid gels. What one works best for you and your family depends on your preferences.
Powders tend to be more complicated when dosing, whereas liquids often come with a measuring cup or cap included. Pods are the easiest to use but, as with all laundry detergents, need to be kept out of reach of children due to their appealing bright and colourful appearance. Many brands now offer child safety locks on packaging as an extra precaution.
How we chose our recommendations
We all want the best for our baby, so picking a laundry detergent that tackles stains and is safe for sensitive skin is no small task.
Recommendations by real parents
That's why our initial list of the best laundry detergents for babies is formed using recommendations from the Mumsnet forums. Whilst there, we spend hours searching for the highest-rated options. No one wants to take a risk regarding their children's health, so every option on our list has been tried, tested and loved by real parents.
Industry expert opinion
We then cross-referenced our options using the expert opinion of comparison websites, online publications, print media and supermarkets to ensure our recommended products are safe, effective and budget-friendly.
Verified customer reviews
Finally, we analyse verified customer reviews, weigh the listed pros and cons and triple-check that every recommendation provides an accurate and balanced opinion on the product.
A guide you can trust
Mumsnet takes your and your baby's safety very seriously and, as such, has perfected this verification process as a safeguard that ensures we provide an honest, up-to-date guide on the best laundry detergents for your baby.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.