The Best Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin [2025 Guide]
If you or your family members struggle with itchy skin, rashes, or eczema after laundry day, your detergent might be the culprit. Many mainstream laundry detergents are packed with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes that can trigger reactions—especially for babies and those with sensitive skin.
That’s why I’ve rounded up the best non-toxic laundry detergents for sensitive skin in 2025. These options are free of irritating ingredients, eco-conscious, and—bonus!—many of them are baby-safe too.
Let’s dive in.
A Personal Wake-Up Call: My Laundry Detergent Allergy Story
A few years ago, when I moved from Detroit, MI to Denver, CO, I had a serious wake-up call about laundry detergent. I was staying with my brother and his wife while waiting for my new apartment to be ready, and one night I decided to wash the bed sheets with whatever detergent they had on hand. I didn’t think twice—I had never really given laundry detergent much thought.
That night, I went to bed with freshly laundered sheets, but just a few hours later, I woke up to burning skin and hives all over my body. Panicked and unsure of what was happening, I ended up in the emergency room. It turned out I’d had an allergic reaction to the detergent—something I had never experienced before.
A steroid shot and a few Benadryls later, I realized that what we put on our clothes and bedding can have a huge impact on our skin and health. That moment set me on a journey to understand ingredients, avoid harmful chemicals, and find truly non-toxic options for myself and my family.
Quick Comparison: Top Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents
| Brand | Best For | Fragrance-Free? | Baby-Safe? | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Molly’s Suds | All-around sensitive skin | Yes | Yes | $$ | Super clean formula, minimal scent |
| Attitude Sensitive Skin | Eczema-prone skin | Yes | Yes | $$ | Dermatologist-tested, clean ingredients |
| Branch Basics | Ultra-gentle & multi-use | Yes | Yes | $$$ | Also works for surfaces, pricey but powerful |
| Seventh Generation Free & Clear | Budget-friendly | Yes | Yes | $ | Widely available and effective |
| Tru Earth Eco-Strips | Space-saving | Yes | Yes | $$ | Compact and great for travel too |
| Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented | Newborns & ultra-sensitive skin | Yes | Yes | $$ | Castile-based, super gentle |
Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Powder
Why it’s great: Created by a mom who lost her daughter and was inspired to clean up household products, Molly’s Suds is free from SLS, fragrances, and other known irritants.
How it feels: No artificial smells, just a clean, minimal powder that dissolves well.
Bonus: It only uses 4 ingredients — and they’re all safe and effective.
Attitude Sensitive Skin – Free & Clear
Why it’s great: This formula is certified by the EWG, dermatologist-tested, and made specifically for sensitive skin types and those with eczema or allergies.
How it feels: Very gentle, completely unscented, and doesn’t leave behind a residue.
Bonus: Comes in a bulk refill box, making it more sustainable and affordable.
Branch Basics Concentrate
Why it’s great: This is not just a laundry detergent — it’s a multipurpose cleaner you dilute yourself. One bottle can last for months and clean everything from clothes to counters.
How it feels: Super clean with zero scent. Safe enough to wash baby clothes, cloth diapers, and even produce.
Bonus: It’s a concentrate, so you control the strength and use less packaging.
Seventh Generation Free & Clear
Why it’s great: Widely available, effective, and often found in stores like Target or your local grocery.
How it feels: A no-frills clean. Perfect for families who want something better than mainstream brands without going fully boutique.
Bonus: Budget-friendly and often on sale.
Tru Earth Eco-Strips
Why it’s great: These ultra-light detergent strips dissolve in water and come in a tiny cardboard sleeve. Perfect for those with limited storage, frequent travelers, or anyone trying to reduce plastic waste.
How it feels: Surprisingly powerful for such a thin little strip!
Bonus: TSA-friendly and zero-waste.
Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Castile Soap
Why it’s great: A staple in clean homes, this castile soap can be used for laundry, baby baths, and even DIY cleaners.
How it feels: Super gentle — no added scents or synthetic anything.
Bonus: You can customize it with essential oils (just skip that for baby laundry).
What Makes a Detergent Non-Toxic?
Look for these key features:
No synthetic fragrances or dyes
Free from phthalates, sulfates (like SLS), parabens, and optical brighteners
Plant-based or mineral-based ingredients
Biodegradable + cruelty-free when possible
Always check for certifications like:
EWG Verified
USDA Organic
EPA Safer Choice
My Personal Favorite: Molly’s Suds Original Laundry Powder
I’ve tried quite a few over the years, but Molly’s Suds is the one I keep going back to. It’s made with only five ingredients, is safe for the whole family (including babies), and gets clothes genuinely clean—even with hard water. It doesn’t leave any residue or weird scents, and my sensitive skin LOVES it.
Pro tip: Their oxygen whitener is great as a natural bleach alternative!
Best Baby-Safe Options
For new parents or those washing cloth diapers, these are my top picks:
Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Castile Soap: Pure and simple.
Attitude Little Ones Baby Detergent: Hypoallergenic and EWG-certified.
Molly’s Suds: Gentle enough for baby clothes, even preemies.
Final Thoughts
Switching to a non-toxic detergent might seem like a small change—but for sensitive skin, it’s a game-changer. You’ll reduce skin irritation, lessen your household’s chemical exposure, and feel better about what you’re washing your clothes in. Making a clean switch doesn’t have to be expensive or confusing. All the options above are non-toxic, effective, and better for both your body and your home.
I learned the hard way, but you don’t have to.
