Gentle laundry detergent: free and clear, eco claims

This page explains labels and prices. No detergent is guaranteed to suit every skin type, and if your skin is painful, very red or getting worse, please ask a dermatologist or doctor.

Reading a detergent label

• Free and clear, fragrance-free, dye-free. Usually means no added perfume or colorant. Check the ingredients if you want to be sure.
• Unscented. Can mean a masking ingredient was used.
• HE (high-efficiency). Made for front-loading and other HE washers. It matters for how much foam your machine can handle.
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested. Hints, not guarantees.
• Enzymes. Many detergents contain them to help break down stains. If you are sensitive, check the ingredient list.

Reading eco claims

General words like eco-friendly, green and natural say little, and the FTC's Green Guides discourage unqualified claims. Look for specific claims with support. Recognized programs such as EPA Safer Choice and USDA Certified Biobased Product check particular things, and they do not tell you how a detergent will feel on your skin. We do not say that any specific product has either. See our eco-friendly hand soap guide for more.

Powder, liquid, pods or sheets

• Powder. Often the lowest cost per load. Can leave residue in cold water for some loads.
• Liquid. Easy to dose. Mid-range cost, and larger bottles usually bring the unit price down.
• Pods. Pre-measured and convenient. Often higher per load. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Sheets and strips. Light and compact. Compare the price per load.

Comparing prices: price per load

1. Find the number of loads on the package (and which load size it assumes).
2. Divide the price by the number of loads.
3. Compare across forms and sizes on the same basis.

Refills and larger sizes are often cheaper per load, but only if you will use them. Concentrates help only if you really use less per wash. Subscriptions can help too, but compare the unit price, as in our household essentials guide.