Somewhere between the hospital discharge and the first full basket of tiny vests and sleepsuits, most new parents start wondering whether they need to overhaul their entire laundry routine. The short answer is: probably not entirely, but a few adjustments make sense. Here is what the evidence actually supports.
Biological detergents contain enzymes — lipase, protease, and amylase — which break down protein, fat, and starch-based stains. They are highly effective at removing food and bodily fluid stains at lower temperatures, which makes them efficient and economical.
Non-biological detergents do not contain enzymes. They clean primarily through surfactants and may include optical brighteners. They are generally considered gentler on sensitive skin, which is why they have traditionally been recommended for babies.
The assumption that biological detergents cause skin irritation is widespread but less well-supported by evidence than most people assume. A number of studies have found no significant difference in skin irritation between bio and non-bio detergents when clothes are rinsed properly. The European Society of Contact Dermatitis notes that properly rinsed laundry from biological detergent does not typically leave enzyme residue on fabric.
That said, for babies with confirmed eczema, atopic dermatitis, or very sensitive skin, a fragrance-free non-bio detergent is a reasonable precaution and may make a genuine difference in reducing flares. For babies with healthy skin, the case for non-bio is weaker — it is a personal choice rather than a medical necessity.
If you are going to make one change to your laundry routine for a new baby, eliminating fragrance is likely more impactful than switching from bio to non-bio. Fragrances are among the most common contact allergens, and they are found in both bio and non-bio detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets.
Look for detergents labelled "fragrance-free" rather than "unscented" — the latter can mean that a masking fragrance has been added to neutralise a chemical smell, which still contains allergenic compounds.
Well-tolerated, fragrance-free non-bio options include Surcare, Fairy Non-Bio (fragrance-free version), and own-brand fragrance-free non-bio powders or liquids from major supermarkets.
Fabric softener is worth avoiding entirely for babies with eczema or sensitive skin. The conditioning agents and fragrances in fabric softeners are well-established triggers for contact dermatitis. They coat fibres and remain in contact with the skin throughout the time the item is worn.
For babies without skin conditions, the evidence is less clear-cut, but given that fabric softener offers no health benefit — only a texture preference — many parents choose to skip it for baby items as a precaution.
If you wash baby items with family laundry and are not ready to give up fabric softener for the whole household, consider running baby clothes through a second rinse cycle to reduce residue.
Yes. This is a recommendation worth following. New clothes can contain:
Washing before first use removes these residues. A standard wash at the appropriate temperature for the fabric is sufficient — you do not need a special detergent or additional soaking.
30°C to 40°C is sufficient for most baby clothing in routine circumstances. Biological detergents are particularly effective at low temperatures, but fragrance-free non-bio detergents also clean adequately at 30–40°C for everyday items.
60°C is recommended for items that have been in contact with significant illness — vomit, diarrhoea, or following an infection where hygiene needs to be higher. This temperature provides a more reliable level of bacterial reduction.
Check fabric labels. Delicate fabrics, wool, and certain knits will be damaged at higher temperatures. The care label is the final word on temperature.
Many parents wash baby clothes separately for the first few months, particularly if using a different detergent. Once you are satisfied that your standard household detergent does not affect your baby's skin, there is no reason to continue washing separately — it is a significant use of energy and water.
The key question is not whether the clothes are washed with other items, but whether the detergent and any additives are appropriate.
There is no set age at which switching to a biological detergent becomes safe. If your baby has eczema or sensitive skin, you may choose to use non-bio detergent indefinitely. If your baby has healthy skin and you have been using non-bio as a precaution, you can experiment with switching to bio at any point — most parents find they can transition without any skin reaction.
The practical approach: try a week with your regular household bio detergent on your baby's items and check for any skin changes. If no rash or irritation appears, you can continue. If you notice a reaction, return to fragrance-free non-bio and consider whether fragrance in your usual detergent might be the culprit.
Dryer sheets should be avoided for the same reasons as fabric softener. If you use tumble drying, either skip the dryer sheet entirely for baby items or use an unscented variety — though eliminating them is the simpler option.
Wash new clothes before use. Use a fragrance-free detergent, bio or non-bio depending on your baby's skin. Avoid fabric softener for babies with eczema. Separate washing is helpful early on but not necessary long-term. 60°C for items contaminated by illness; 30–40°C otherwise. That is all you need.
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