Can I Use Regular Detergent for Baby Clothes?

  • Riya Yadav
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Can I Use Regular Detergent for Baby Clothes?
Can I Use Regular Detergent for Baby Clothes?

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When you become a parent, you become more cautious about everything related to your child. Baby clothes need to be very soft, as their skin is sensitive and can react to any hard fabric or chemical/ dye associated with fabric. In this blog, we are here with an ultimate guide to baby laundry detergent. So, Let’s move to the most asked question of parents “Can I Use Regular Detergent For Baby Clothes?”

Why is choosing the best baby laundry detergent important?

Choosing the best newborn laundry detergent is very important because a newborn’s skin is very delicate and sensitive, making it more susceptible to rashes and irritation caused by harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes commonly found in regular detergent. The right baby detergent is specially formulated to ensure that baby’s clothes can be washed effectively without harming their skin.  

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Why is Special Detergent for Baby Clothes Recommended?

Babies have a very sensitive skin which is likely to be more susceptible to allergens and irritants. Their skin barrier is very thin as compared to adults that’s why experts always recommend special baby centric detergents that can prevent rashes and do not contain strong fragrance, chemicals, etc. as it causes problems like rashes, redness, inflammation, itchiness, etc. 

Because of these risks, many pediatricians recommend using mild, fragrance-free detergents that are specially formulated for babies, at least for the first few months.

When Is It Safe to Use Regular Baby Laundry Detergent?

If you take the right precautions, you can use ordinary detergent in certain situations:

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A. Select a Hypoallergenic, Mild Detergent

Some common detergents are marked “free & clear” to indicate that they don’t contain any dyes or fragrances. Families who wish to wash adult and baby clothes together frequently use these because they can be safe for baby clothes. Always search for:

  • Dermatologist-approved
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Not scented
  • No additional brighteners or dyes

B. Handle baby clothes separately.

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Washing your baby’s clothes apart from the rest of the family is a smart idea, even if you’re using a safe detergent. This is especially important if other clothing has been exposed to pet hairs, harsh cleaning agents, or areas that are extremely dirty.

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C. Rinse Thoroughly

Using an extra rinse cycle can help ensure that no detergent residue remains on clothes, which might irritate sensitive skin.

When Should You Switch to Regular Detergent?

Most babies outgrow extreme sensitivity by the time they are 12 months old, that’s why choosing the best newborn detergent is necessary, though this can vary. You might consider switching to a regular detergent when:

  • Your baby has shown no signs of skin irritation with current detergent.

  • You’ve introduced other skincare products without any issues.

  • You want the convenience of washing everyone’s clothes together.

Make sure to test the new detergent by washing a few baby garments first and checking for any skin reaction after wearing them.

How to Safely Wash Baby Clothes With Regular Detergent?

Regardless of the detergent you choose, there are a few best practices that ensure baby clothes stay safe and clean:

1. Pre-wash Baby Clothes

New baby clothes, even those right off the shelf, may carry dust, dyes, or manufacturing chemicals. Always pre-wash new baby clothes before use.

2. Use Warm Water (But Not Too Hot)

Wash in warm or cold water, not hot. It’s enough to remove bacteria without shrinking delicate fabrics or damaging colors.

3. Avoid Fabric Softeners

Fabric softeners can coat the fabric and reduce the absorbency of baby clothes, particularly cloth diapers and towels. They also often contain strong scents that may irritate your baby’s skin.

4. Dry in Sunlight

Whenever possible, dry baby clothes in the sunlight, which naturally kills bacteria and acts as a natural whitener and deodorizer.

Signs Your Baby Is Reacting to Laundry Detergent

If your baby is experiencing discomfort, keep an eye out for:

  • Small red bumps or hives

  • Patches of eczema or rash in areas covered by clothing

  • Excessive itching or fussiness

  • Dry, flaky skin

If you notice these signs, try switching to a baby-specific detergent and consult a pediatrician.

Washing Cloth Diapers? Special Rules Apply

If you’re using cloth diapers, regular  newborn laundry detergent may not be suitable due to the buildup of residues. Use detergents that are:

  • Free from fabric softeners

  • Strong enough to remove waste and odor

  • Rinsed thoroughly to avoid irritation

Many parents use detergents like Rockin’ Green or Tide Free & Gentle (without additives) for cloth diapers, combined with hot water and multiple rinses.

Eco-Friendly and Homemade Detergents: Are They Safe?

Some parents prefer homemade newborn detergents or eco-friendly options to avoid chemicals entirely. While these can be safer in terms of ingredients, they may not clean effectively or remove bacteria unless properly formulated.

Popular homemade recipes include baking soda, washing soda, Castile soap, and borax. But be cautious not all homemade recipes are safe or suitable for washing baby items.

Final Tips to Keep in Mind

  • Always check labels on detergents before use.

  • Test small batches of clothes before full loads when switching detergents.

  • Don’t overload the washer, so detergent can rinse out properly.

  • Avoid bleach and optical brighteners which can cause irritation.

Conclusion: Can I Use Regular Detergent For Baby Clothes?

Coming to this question about newborn clothes detergent, well! Generally it is not recommended to use regular detergent for baby clothes. Regular Detergents can contain harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrance that can cause irritation to a kid’s sensitive skin.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not necessarily purport to reflect the values or views of Tumbledry.

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