Can I Use Regular Detergent on Baby Clothes?
It is important to keep your baby’s clothes clean, but it is also important to be mindful ofwashing them in the right kind of detergent to avoid skin irritation and sensitivities.
The Difference between Regular and Baby Detergents
Regular detergents contain a variety of ingredients that act on stains, help with the dispersal of dirt, and allow clothes to stay cleaner longer. Additionally, they may also contain harsh chemicals that may be too harsh for sensitive skin. Baby detergents are specially formulated with gentle ingredients that are less likely to irritate the skin and leave laundry smelling fresh.
Steps for Washing Baby Clothes
- Measure detergent accurately. Follow the instructions on the detergent packaging for exact measurements, as any more may be too harsh for baby’s sensitive skin.
- Wash separate from other clothes. For extra peace of mind, wash your baby’s clothes in a separate cycle from all other family members’ clothing.
- Choose cold water. Babies’ skin is very sensitive too hot temperatures, so opt for cold water washing and only a warm final rinse cycle, if needed.
- Line dry. If possible, opt for line-drying clothes to avoid potential irritation from the heat of a dryer cycle.
- Give a final inspection. Before folding clothes, examine them for stains, lint, rogue buttons, or any other debris that may irritate baby’s skin.
Mild Detergent Alternatives
If your baby’s skin is already irritated, it is best to switch from a regular detergent to a mild detergent alternative. You may also want to consider a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergent.
In conclusion, regular detergent can be used on baby clothes, but making sure to follow the above steps helps keep baby’s skin free from irritation. Milder detergent alternatives are also an option for those with sensitive skin.