Im fairly sure I'm allergic to our washing detergent, any suggestions for good alternative?

[LovelyDaffs]

I dont normally suffer from allergies, but have recently had very sensitive skin that comes up in a rash if I even gently rub it. I had eliminated our washing detergent from enquiries as I've been using it for ages, but I noticed that they've changed it. It's Ariel xl gel, which now has 'with actilift' on the packaging and I think it may be the change in formula that's causing the problem. I hope so anyway, as I'm being driven mad.

I assume that I need a non bio, but which one? I normally buy two types, one for colours and one for whites as I hate colours fading or whites being more grey. Any ideas of which non bio gives good results?

I need to get washing asap, to see if it makes any difference.

Persil Original non-bio is a very good powder and gets good results and seems not to cause skin problems.

It is especially good on whites, we use the non-bio persil liquid for colours though it is not as powerful.

I believe that the liquids don't contain bleach so are better for colours.

DS1 has very sensitive skin, and bio's bring himout in hives.

We have tried many different products, but now stick with fairy or surf.

Simply Sensitive - Eco Smart is very good, it's usually on the bottom shelf in the supermarket as it's one of the cheaper ones about.

p.s. both the Persil Non Bios (powder and liquid) are Which best buys. There is more choice available with brands of good Bios but I think that is not what you want.

soapnuts are fab, either use on their own or with a quarter of the amount of usual powder. really cheap too.

I find eco balls very good. No need for any detergent. Occasionally I'll use a scoop of oxy stuff to brighten whites but not very often.

I'm wary of soapnuts or eco balls, I have a friend who has used them and her clothes never look bright iyswim. I think I'll try the Fairy - DH has had problems with Persil in the past.

I hope it is the washing detergent causing the itching - it's driving me nuts.

also look at fabric conditioner - we use comfort pure or fairy. Others bring ds1 out in a rash.

Ecover. DH has v sensitive skin and it's the only thing he can stand.

Is there a non bio colour detergent?

Hatti - I stopped using fabric conditioner when the Dr suggested that my recurring thrush might be due to it. I thought I was being fobbed off, but sure enough I haven't had 'thrush' since. Hmm, perhaps I do have allergies afterall.

I've found Surcare to be brilliant as it is fragrance free. It's a bit more pricey than other brands but if you're sensitive to the perfumes it's worth every penny.

Another one vote for Ecover here.

Ecover, as recommended by my gynaecologist. No thrush etc since.