Laundry detergent is something we use all the time, but often the ingredients in these detergents can lead to a host of problems in children and adults. Some problems include contact dermatitis, rashes, headaches, irritated eyes, stuffy noses, and dry throats. These issues are generally a result of chemical sensitivity, which can generally be traced to any number of ingredients (with that being the case, it’s crucial that you know exactly what you’re allergic to so you know what to avoid).

So, what do laundry detergents have in them that tends to be at the root of these reactions? The most common culprits are the dyes and fragrances. Adding insult to injury, neither chemical dyes nor fragrances make your clothes any cleaner. In fact, sometimes the most delightful fragrances cover up the fact that your laundry isn’t getting clean at all.

Nonetheless, the idea that, “If it smells cleaner, it is cleaner” has prevailed for so long, that we tend to gravitate toward detergents that promote their “scent boosters” and other features. While it could be debated if these ingredients are truly healthy for anyone, it can’t be denied that those with skin or allergy issues would be wise to steer clear of them.

Allergy-Friendly Laundry Detergents

What makes a laundry detergent “anti-allergen”? The ones that are safe for allergy sufferers to use are, naturally, the ones without unnecessary dyes and fragrances. It’s really a pretty simple formula, but it’s always important to take into account whether or not a particular detergent has the specific ingredients that worsen your condition. With that in mind, and without further ado, here are some of the most effective and least harmful of all anti-allergy laundry detergents.

Detergent #1: Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Laundry Detergent

Ecology Works produced this allergy-friendly detergent to provide allergy sufferers with a safe way to way to wash their laundry that gets their clothes clean. As with many anti-allergen products, this detergent doesn’t have dyes and fragrances, but it still leaves a fresh scent on your laundry that makes you feel cleaner for a longer time, but without any side effects. Strong enough for both household and commercial use, Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Laundry Detergent manages to do what it needs to do without leaving behind much residue.

Detergent #2: Allertech All-Temperature Laundry Detergent

Allertech has also put together an impressive concoction that gets laundry clean while being gentle on those who use it. This detergent’s name probably gives away the fact that it can be used in both hot and cold water, but what it doesn’t give away is that it is able to do away with a plethora of allergens, including dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.

Detergent #3: Seventh Generation Free and Clear Natural Laundry Detergent

Seventh Gen’s hypoallergenic detergent prides itself on being safe for people with sensitivities while still providing a deep clean. For people prone to contact dermatitis, there may not be another detergent better at leaving you rash-free. One thing that this particular offering from Seventh Generation is not made for is removing oil, so if you have an oil stain, you’ll need to look elsewhere to have it taken care of.

Laundry Additives

If you feel like your laundry detergent just isn’t cutting it, you might want to try a laundry additive. Laundry additives can take the allergen elimination to the next level. Washing your laundry, especially using hot water, can do wonders when it comes to ridding your bedding and clothing of some of the biggest allergy provokers. Dust mites are possibly the worst offender of all, and are surely the grossest. This alone makes it worthwhile to take whatever steps are necessary to make sure they’re not climbing all over you while you slumber.

The Bottom Line

The detergent you use to wash your clothes should make you feel clean and comfortable, not make your allergy symptoms worse. Powerful fragrances cover up stains and odors rather than cleaning them, and many of them leave you itching, burning, and feeling anything but clean. If you have allergies or sensitive skin, it’s an absolute necessity to be mindful about the type of detergent you use to wash your clothes. You need something that gets your clothes clean, kills allergens, and takes the stains out without damaging you or your clothes.