FEATURED
YOUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS
ExPLORE
NON-TOXIC CLEANING 101
FEATURED
YOUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS
ExPLORE
NON-TOXIC CLEANING 101
Irritation from laundry detergent is an inflammatory response in your skin that can occur when the skin comes into contact with a substance; this type of reaction is known as contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is not contagious, but it can be very unpleasant. When caused by laundry detergent, it often appears as a red, itchy rash; dry, scaly patches of skin; or red, raised bumps. Generally, contact dermatitis occurs in the area of your skin that comes into direct contact with the substance, but in the case of laundry products, the reaction may be all over the body, as most of your skin touches your clothes, blankets, and towels.
When it comes to finding a good laundry detergent for sensitive skin, the most common ingredients to avoid are dyes and fragrances. Look for a detergent labeled “free and clear” and, most importantly, always check the ingredient list. Even “natural” or “green” detergent alternatives may include essential oils or other naturally derived scents. Detergents that are formulated without any dyes or fragrances, like Truly Free Home Unscented Laundry Wash, are the best choice for those with skin sensitivity to laundry detergent.
Another tip is to skip the fabric softener and dryer sheets. These often contain fragrance and function by leaving a layer of chemical compounds on the fabric to make it feel softer and reduce static. Softer static-free clothes sound great, but this layer of residue can cause irritation. If you need a fabric softener for sensitive skin, our Truly Free Home Unscented Softening Rinse instead works by softening hard water to soften your linens and reduce static cling.
Similarly, steer clear from harsh chemical stain removers and chlorine bleach as these are also often irritating for those with skin conditions or sensitivities. Instead, opt for enzyme cleaners for organic stains (think: blood, urine, sweat, food, etc.) and oxygen bleach, like Truly Free Home OxyBoost, for brightening and whitening.
If you or your kiddos have dealt with skin sensitivities, then you know supporting healthy skin isn’t only about the products, it’s also about the process. Here are some other habits you can incorporate into your laundry routine to minimize flare-ups.
Always wash before wearing. New clothes can be treated with chemicals or finishes that reduce wrinkling and improve appearances in stores. Even thrifted, vintage, or second-hand clothes can contain other potential irritants like dust and pet dander, so it’s important to wash any new-to-you clothing and linens before use.
Use the correct amount of detergent. Using too little or too much detergent can cause issues for those with sensitive skin. Using too little can mean that dirt, sweat, and grime don’t get entirely washed away, while using too much can mean that the detergent doesn’t get entirely washed away. In either case, leftover dirt or detergent can lead to irritation. To avoid this, follow the instructions for the correct amount needed based on the size of your laundry load, soil level, and machine.
Add an extra rinse. To combat leftover detergent and grime, add an extra rinse cycle to your laundry settings. This helps ensure that everything gets washed away, leaving you with cleaner clothes and happier skin.
Clean your washing machine. Though it’s not obvious, it’s true—the machine that cleans your clothes needs to be cleaned. Over time, hard water and laundry product residue build up in your washer. This residue can then transfer back to your laundry as you’re washing it, leaving it not quite as clean as you’d hope. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to clean your washer for easy tips.
Dealing with itchy, red rashes and dry skin isn’t fun for anyone, but with a mindful, sensitive skin-friendly laundry routine, it is something you can minimize. Because feeling comfortable in your skin should be a given.
