Best Laundry Detergent for Eczema Sufferers

Living with eczema means constantly thinking about what touches your skin. Every shirt, towel, and bedsheet can be the difference between calm and irritation.

But while most people focus on lotions and medications, few realize how much their laundry detergent might be fueling the problem. The wrong formula can leave behind residue that triggers flare-ups, dryness, and itching.

So, what’s the best laundry detergent for eczema? You need something that cleans deeply without relying on harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or leftover film. While there are lots of options on the market, you can’t beat our laundry detergent sheets here at Clean People.

They’re super simple to use, and scientifically formulated with simple, effective ingredients you can trust. No harsh chemicals. They’re formulated and assembled here in the USA with strict quality control standards in place.

We also make laundry pods and liquid formulas, so no matter how you prefer to clean your clothes, you can count on Clean People. See for yourself why thousands of families struggling with eczema turn to Clean People!

“My darling granddaughter has eczema, so we thought we would give this a try. I love that they are also environmentally friendly in the TINIEST packages. I gave my granddaughter a piece of dark chocolate that she proceeded to drool all over her favorite shirt. I was certain it would not come out…..BUT IT DID! Love this stuff!!!!!” – Jami

“Clean People products are gentle to my skin with absolutely nothing to irritate my body. I use the laundry, cleaning, and other products. The laundry sheets are convenient to carry on our long camping or cruise trips. Our clothes are so clean since we made the switch to CP.” – Debbie

“Very pleasant, delightful scent. My Grandchild has eczema, and this is why I wanted to try the product, but now everyone loves it.” – Melard

Quick Look at the Best Laundry Detergent for Eczema

The Link Between Laundry Detergent and Eczema

Eczema (or atopic dermatitis) affects both children and adults, but it’s especially common in people with allergies, asthma, or other sensitivities. And if you or a loved one struggles with it, you already know it’s more than just “sensitive skin.”

This is a chronic condition where the skin’s natural barrier is weaker, which means even mild irritants – including detergent residue – can lead to painful discomfort or flare-ups. Since clothing or bedding touches the skin, what you use to clean it matters more than you might think.

Ingredients Most Likely to Cause Irritation

Not all detergents are created equal, as you’ve come to realize yourself. The problem is most mainstream products use harsh surfactants and additives that make clothes look bright or smell “fresh,” but can be punishing to sensitive skin. The worst offenders include:

• Fragrances and dyes: Synthetic scents and colorants are frequent culprits behind contact dermatitis.
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): These aggressive foaming agents strip natural oils from the skin.
• Optical brighteners and chlorine-based whiteners: They leave residues that cling to fabric and rub against skin.
• Preservatives like methylisothiazolinone: Known irritants even in low concentrations.

Why Babies and People With Atopic Dermatitis Are Especially Vulnerable

Technically, anyone can have an allergic reaction to laundry detergent. But infants and those with atopic dermatitis have thinner, more porous skin that absorbs irritants more easily – so the stakes are just a little higher.

Even small traces of detergent can lead to dryness, itching, or eczema flare-ups. That’s why choosing the right detergent is so important. So, what is the best laundry detergent for eczema sufferers?

What Laundry Detergent is Best for Eczema? Key Considerations

Every detail matters when looking for an eczema-friendly laundry detergent, but what are the things you should prioritize most in looking at the label?

Even products labeled “gentle” or “sensitive” can hide harsh ingredients that leave residue and trigger flare-ups. You need to dig deeper to really enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re getting the best laundry detergent for eczema.

Key Features to Look For in an Eczema-Safe Detergent

The ideal detergent for eczema sufferers is as minimal as it is effective. In the simplest sense, these are the things we suggest you look for in an eczema-friendly detergent:

• Fragrance-free formulas: Artificial fragrances are among the most common triggers for eczema.
• No dyes or optical brighteners: These additives may make clothes look better, but can irritate sensitive skin.
• Residue-free rinse: A good detergent dissolves fully and rinses clean, leaving nothing behind to cause itching.
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested: These terms indicate products have been formulated and tested to minimize irritation.
• Plant-based surfactants: Derived from natural sources, so they tend to clean without stripping oils or damaging delicate skin.

Ingredients You Do Want in Your Detergent

The problem with most detergents is that they have at least a few of those red flags we talked about earlier. So what ingredients bring cleaning power to your washing machine without bringing irritation to your skin? Some safe active ingredients include:

• Coconut-derived surfactants: Such as alkyl polyglucosides or alcohol ethoxylates, which gently lift dirt without harsh suds.
• Natural water softeners like sodium citrate: Help detergents work efficiently without residue buildup.
• Enzymes (like protease or amylase): These target stains naturally, reducing the need for aggressive chemicals.
• Glycerin: A natural humectant that softens fabrics and helps reduce friction against the skin.

Powder vs Liquid vs Laundry Sheets: What’s Safest?

You’ll find laundry detergent in just about every form these days, from laundry pods vs liquid to powder and sheets. While they all share the common goal of cleaning your clothes, some are gentler and better suited to eczema-prone skin than others.

Take powder detergents, for instance. These can leave behind undissolved residue (especially in cold water cycles), so they’re a lot less ideal for eczema-prone skin.

Liquid detergents can be a better option, but so many people find that they use way more than they should – and they’re notorious for coming in plastic jugs filled with synthetic ingredients.

Laundry detergent sheets like Clean People are the clear winner. They dissolve completely, are pre-measured to prevent overdosing, and contain no irritants, harsh fragrances, or unnecessary fillers. More on that in a moment.

Should You Use Fabric Softeners or Scent Boosters?

We know you want your clothes to stay buttery soft and smell amazing, but in most cases, fabric softeners and scent boosters only cause more harm than good. They’re loaded with artificial fragrances and coatings that cling to clothing – the last thing you need! Use these instead:

• Wool dryer balls to reduce static naturally.
• White vinegar as a softening rinse.
• Fragrance-free dryer sheets (if absolutely necessary) for a mild touch.

There’s a lot to look for in an eczema-safe laundry detergent formula, but we’ve taken it upon ourselves to create a list of the best options on the market right now – take a look below!

So, What is the Best Laundry Detergent for Eczema?

Here at Clean People we believe laundry detergent should clean your clothes without compromising your skin or your health. That’s why every formula we create is guided by one simple rule – use fewer, safer ingredients that actually work.

You’ll never find harsh chemicals, residue, or unnecessary additives in our products. They’re safer for the entire family, whether you’re worried about your little ones or struggling with eczema yourself.

We’ll unveil our three different types of laundry detergent below and share a few other contenders for the best laundry detergent for eczema sufferers.

Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets

These are by far one of the best laundry detergent sheets made in USA. Lightweight, mess-free, and dermatologist-approved. What more could you ask for? 

Each sheet is scientifically formulated with gentle, biodegradable ingredients that remove stains and odors while protecting skin. They work with all washing machines, including HE and front-loaders, and they’re totally septic-safe. They dissolve completely even in cold water.

As for the Clean People laundry detergent ingredients, we’re proud to be entirely free of:

• 1,4 dioxane (carcinogen)
• Ethylene oxide (carcinogen)
• Synthetic dyes
• Optical brighteners
• Phosphates
• Parabens
• Formaldehyde
• Phthalates

We even have baby laundry sheets that we’ve made extra gentle for newborns and children with eczema or sensitive skin. Order yours today and see what makes these sheets a great choice laundry detergent for eczema sufferers!

Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods

Prefer pods? Ours deliver the same cleaner, concentrated power without the dyes or harsh additives. Each pod is free from parabens, phosphates, harsh fragrances, and chlorine, and safe for all machine types.

They clean deeply while rinsing completely, preventing residue that can trigger irritation. And again, we have baby laundry pods if you really want to make sure you’re getting the gentle formulas your family needs!

Clean People Liquid Laundry Detergent

For years Clean People was known as the #1 choice for laundry sheets and pods. That’s still the case today, but we’ve gotten asked enough about why we don’t have liquid laundry detergent that we decided to change that!

Our liquid laundry detergent is made the Clean People way. That means 70% less plastic and zero SLS, parabens, phosphates, or synthetic dyes. It’s effective, skin-safe, and formulated to leave nothing behind but soft, clean clothes.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Detergent

Seventh Generation Free & Clear has been a long-time favorite for those seeking budget-friendly sensitive skin detergents. It uses “cleaner” ingredients to neutralize odors and remove dirt without added fragrances or dyes. It’s safe for both standard and HE machines.

The problem is, some people still find the formula a bit heavy on residue given its thicker liquid base. An extra rinse cycle might help, or you can avoid the issue altogether by going with Clean people.

All Free and Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent

All makes its own Free and Clear formula. This straightforward, hypoallergenic option is free of perfumes and dyes, and known for being gentle on skin and affordable for families managing eczema.

Just be aware that the formula isn’t as eco-conscious as newer alternatives. There are still synthetic surfactants, and it comes in plastic jugs. It’s not ideal if your goal is not only to get the best laundry detergent for eczema, but to get one that reduces waste.

Fairy Non-Biological Stain Powder

Last but not least, we have Fairy Non-Bio Powder – a unique alternative to laundry detergent in the traditional format. It’s a “non-biological” formula (meaning no enzymes), which really reduces the risk of irritation.

While it works really well for softness and mild cleaning, it’s a bit harder to find here in the US these days. It can sometimes leave residue on fabrics if not dissolved completely since it’s a powder, too.

Tips on Washing Clothes With the Best Laundry Detergent for Eczema

Even with the best laundry detergent for eczema in your rotation, there are some things you should know about actually using it. Here’s how to really minimize the risk of irritation or flare-ups.

Wash New Clothes Before Wearing

New clothes often come coated in dyes, finishes, and starches that can irritate sensitive skin. They should get a thorough washing (at least once) before you wear them to remove any chemical residues from manufacturing or packaging.

Consider a Second Rinse

Even the gentlest detergents can leave trace amounts of residue, especially if you overload your washer or live in an area with hard water. Running an extra rinse cycle ensures every bit of detergent is removed, leaving fabrics cleaner and safer for sensitive skin.

Wash Clothes Separately if One Family Member Has Eczema

If one person in your home has eczema, it’s smart to wash their clothes separately from the rest of the family. Mixing loads can transfer residue from those harsher products, undoing your effort to maintain an irritant-free wardrobe.

Wash at the Right Temperature

Warm water helps dissolve detergent completely and removes natural oils, sweat, and dust mites that can worsen eczema. But that doesn’t mean you should wash your clothes in hot water – this can wear down fabrics and strip away any natural softness. Find a balance.

Final Words on the Best Laundry Detergent for Eczema Sufferers

Hopefully you have a solid grasp on which is the best laundry detergent for eczema at this point. You have plenty of options, but none better than the gentle, septic-safe laundry detergent we’ve developed for you here at Clean People.

Our laundry sheets, pods, and liquid all prove you can get powerful cleaning and skin-safe ingredients in the same bottle (or pouch). With fewer irritants and no compromises, it’s the kind of clean your skin will thank you for. Switch to the safer, gentler way to wash today!