Choosing the right detergent for newborn clothes is more than a simple laundry decision. A baby’s skin is extremely delicate and can easily react to harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, or artificial dyes.
Using a gentle and safe detergent helps reduce the risk of rashes, allergies, and irritation while keeping baby clothes fresh and clean.
Newborn detergents are specially formulated to remove milk stains, spit up, and everyday messes without leaving harmful residues behind.
In this guide, we highlight the top 10 best detergents for newborn clothes that combine effective cleaning power with skin friendly ingredients, giving parents peace of mind and babies the comfort they deserve every day.
10. Rockin’ Green Plant Based Laundry Detergent Powder
Rockin’ Green Laundry Detergent is a plant‑based, all‑natural powder that tackles tough stains while protecting the most delicate skin.
Dermatologist‑tested and hypoallergenic, the formula uses gentle, plant‑derived enzymes to lift dirt and neutralize odors without any harsh chemicals.
Perfect for cloth diapers, it works in any washing machine or as a soak, leaving baby clothes fresh and odor‑free.
The unscented blend is 100 % biodegradable, free from bleach, dyes, parabens, phosphates, phthalates, SLS/SLES, optical brighteners, and artificial fragrances—making it safe for sensitive skin and the planet.
Each box delivers 90 loads, giving families an economical, cruelty‑free cleaning solution that supports a greener lifestyle. If you’re not satisfied, Rockin’ Green’s customer support promises a response within 48 hours.
Pros
- Tough on stains, gentle on baby skin
- Plant‑powered enzymes safe for delicate fabrics
- Unscented, hypoallergenic, perfect for cloth diapers
- 100 % biodegradable, vegan, cruelty‑free formula
- Works in any machine or as a soak
Cons
- May require a pre‑soak for heavy odors
- Unscented may not please fragrance lovers
- Powder can clump in high humidity environments
9. Dreft Newborn Baby Laundry Starter Kit
Dreft Newborn Baby Laundry Starter Kit combines everything you need for a fresh, gentle wash that protects your baby’s delicate skin.
The 3‑in‑1 liquid detergent fights odors, lifts stubborn stains, and stays soft on sensitive skin, while the Blissfuls scent‑boosting beads lock in a clean fragrance that lasts through multiple washes.
Paired with the soothing fabric rinse, this kit tackles milk, spit‑up, food, and even grass stains without harsh chemicals—no chlorine, dyes, or phosphates.
Dermatologist‑tested and pediatrician‑recommended, the hypoallergenic formula is safe for all fabrics, from newborn onesies and cloth diapers to family towels and workout gear.
Whether you’re battling deep‑set residues or just want a lingering, baby‑friendly scent, Dreft delivers superior cleaning power that outperforms many free‑wash alternatives, keeping every load gentle, fresh, and safe for the whole family.
Pros
- 3‑in‑1 formula cleans, deodorizes, protects skin
- Removes deep, set‑in stains three times better
- Long‑lasting freshness with scent‑boosting beads
- Safe on all fabrics, including cloth diapers
- Pediatrician‑recommended, hypoallergenic for sensitive skin
Cons
- Scent beads add an extra step
- Slightly higher price than basic detergents
- Requires separate rinse for optimal softness
8. ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent Liquid
A gentle, plant‑based wash that’s as kind to your baby’s skin as it is to the planet.
ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent Liquid is EWG Verified, meaning every ingredient meets the Environmental Working Group’s toughest health and safety standards.
Its 98 % natural‑origin formula lifts grass stains, food spots and everyday odors while leaving fabrics soft and fresh.
The soothing Chamomile‑Rose‑Vanilla scent turns laundry time into a calming ritual, and the detergent works in all water temperatures, safe for whites, colors, delicate baby garments, blankets, and even cloth diapers.
Compatible with both standard and High‑Efficiency (HE) machines, it’s a versatile choice for any household.
The 100 % vegan, cruelty‑free blend comes in a recyclable HDPE #2 bottle—one of the easiest plastics to recycle—making it a smart pick for eco‑conscious parents who want clean, effective laundry care for the whole family.
Pros
- EWG Verified, truly clean ingredient list
- 98 % natural‑origin, gentle on sensitive skin
- Chamomile scent calms and comforts baby
- Works in any water temperature, HE‑compatible
- Vegan, cruelty‑free, recyclable packaging
Cons
- Slightly higher price than conventional detergents
- Fragrance may be strong for fragrance‑free fans
- Limited to Amazon exclusive availability
7. Seventh Generation Baby Laundry Detergent Sheets
These laundry detergent sheets are crafted especially for the most delicate skin. The unscented, hypo‑allergenic formula skips harsh chemicals and fragrances, so even newborns and toddlers stay comfortable after every wash.
Each sheet is pre‑measured, dissolving instantly in water—no more messy pours, spills, or guessing doses. Despite their gentle nature, the sheets tackle everyday stains and grime, leaving baby clothes fresh and bright.
Packaged in 100 % plastic‑free material, they help you reduce waste while keeping laundry simple. Their slim, lightweight design makes them perfect for home use and effortless to toss into a diaper bag or suitcase for travel‑ready cleaning.
Pros
- Gentle, fragrance‑free formula protects sensitive skin
- Pre‑measured sheets eliminate spills and guesswork
- Powerful stain removal without harsh chemicals
- Eco‑friendly, plastic‑free packaging reduces waste
- Compact and travel‑ready for on‑the‑go families
Cons
- May require warm water for optimal dissolution
- Not suitable for heavily soiled work garments
- Limited scent options for those who prefer fragrance
6. Tru Earth Hypoallergenic Baby Laundry Strips
Tru Earth’s Hypoallergenic Baby Laundry Detergent Sheets (Eco‑Strips) are designed for the most delicate skin. Each sheet is fragrance‑free and dermatologically tested, so you can trust it won’t irritate newborns, infants, toddlers, or even adults with sensitive skin.
The compact, plastic‑free packaging means you’re cutting down on waste while freeing up space in the laundry room—perfect for eco‑conscious families.
One strip handles a full load, and with 32 sheets you get up to 64 washes, making it a cost‑effective solution for everyday baby clothing, cloth diapers, and even your own garments.
The formula is free from harsh chemicals yet tough on stains, delivering a thorough clean without any lingering scent.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle newborn laundry detergent or a versatile baby washing detergent for the whole family, these Eco‑Strips provide a reliable, skin‑friendly clean every time.
Pros
- Gentle, hypoallergenic formula protects sensitive skin
- Fragrance‑free for irritation‑free laundry
- Plastic‑free packaging reduces environmental impact
- Compact sheets save storage space
- Works on baby clothes, diapers, and adult wear
Cons
- Requires warm water for best results
- May need extra sheets for heavily soiled loads
- Not ideal for high‑efficiency machines with low water levels
5. ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Liquid
The ATTITUDE Baby Laundry Detergent Liquid is a gentle, plant‑based wash that meets the highest safety standards for your little one’s wardrobe.
Certified EWG Verified, the formula is built from 98 % natural‑origin ingredients, ensuring a clean, non‑toxic clean that tackles grass stains, food spills, and everyday odors without harsh chemicals.
Its unscented profile protects sensitive noses, making it perfect for newborns and safe enough for the whole family’s laundry.
Designed for versatility, this detergent works in any water temperature and is compatible with both standard and HE (High‑Efficiency) machines, so you can trust it on whites, colors, delicate fabrics, blankets, and even cloth diapers.
The vegan, cruelty‑free composition aligns with eco‑conscious values, and the recyclable HDPE #2 bottle reduces plastic waste.
With enough concentrate for 80 loads (67.6 fl oz), it’s a long‑lasting, cost‑effective solution for busy parents who demand both performance and sustainability.
Pros
- EWG Verified, clean‑ingredient confidence
- 98 % natural‑origin, plant‑based cleaning power
- Unscented, gentle on newborns’ sensitive skin
- Works in all temperatures, HE‑compatible machines
- Vegan, cruelty‑free, recyclable packaging
Cons
- Higher price point than conventional detergents
- No added fragrance for scent‑loving users
- Requires careful storage to avoid spills
4. Dreft Stage 1 + Blissfuls Baby Laundry Detergent Bundle
A gentle, pediatrician‑approved laundry solution, the Dreft Stage 1 Newborn Baby Liquid Detergent delivers 114 loads (165 fl oz) of hypoallergenic cleaning power, specifically formulated for newborn skin.
Paired with Blissfuls In‑Wash Scent Booster Beads (24 oz, Baby Fresh scent), each wash leaves clothes soft, fresh‑scented, and safe for the most delicate little ones.
The detergent’s low‑suds formula rinses completely, reducing residue that can irritate sensitive skin, while the booster beads lock in a lasting baby‑fresh aroma that endures through multiple wears.
Ideal for daily laundry, this bundle simplifies bedtime routines, giving parents confidence that every outfit, blanket, and burp cloth is clean, gentle, and pleasantly scented.
Pros
- Pediatrician‑chosen formula protects newborn skin
- Long‑lasting Baby Fresh scent throughout the day
- Hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals
- In‑wash booster adds extra fragrance boost
- Provides 114 loads, great value for families
Cons
- Scent may be strong for fragrance‑sensitive users
- Booster beads add an extra step in wash
- Not suitable for high‑efficiency machines without dilution
3. Dreft Stage 1 Liquid Laundry Detergent
Dreft Stage 1 Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent is the go‑to choice for parents who want a gentle, effective clean for their newborn’s delicate skin and tiny garments.
Formulated with pediatrician‑backed ingredients, this detergent tackles everyday baby messes while staying soft on sensitive skin. Its liquid base dissolves quickly, delivering a thorough clean in both high‑efficiency and standard washers.
With over 80 years of trusted performance, Dreft brings peace of mind to every load, protecting newborn fabrics and preserving the softness that little ones love.
Pros
- Pediatrician‑recommended formula for newborns
- Gentle on sensitive baby skin, no irritation
- Works in HE and standard washing machines
- Removes tough baby stains while preserving fabric softness
- Trusted brand with 80+ years of experience
Cons
- Slightly higher price than generic detergents
- Fragrance may not suit all sensitivities
- Limited to 64 loads per container
2. Dreft Stage 1 Liquid Laundry Detergent
Dreft Stage 1 Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent is specially formulated for the delicate skin of newborns while still delivering powerful cleaning performance.
Its 3‑in‑1 blend fights odors, lifts stubborn milk and spit‑up stains, and remains gentle enough for daily baby‑clothes washes. The hypoallergenic formula is free of chlorine, dyes, and phosphates, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin.
As the #1 pediatrician‑recommended baby detergent, Dreft Stage 1 is also HE‑compatible, so it works perfectly in high‑efficiency machines without excess suds.
Pair it with Dreft Active Baby detergent and Dreft scent beads for a thoughtful baby‑shower gift bundle that keeps every outfit fresh, soft, and fragrance‑free.
Pros
- Eliminates tough milk and spit‑up stains effortlessly
- Gentle, hypoallergenic formula protects sensitive skin
- No chlorine, dyes, or phosphates for safer washes
- HE‑compatible; works well in high‑efficiency machines
- Pediatrician‑recommended, trusted by parents worldwide
Cons
- Slightly higher price than generic detergents
- Limited fragrance options; unscented only
- Requires careful measurement for optimal results
1. Dreft Stage 1 Liquid Detergent
Dreft Stage 1 Liquid Detergent is a specially formulated newborn laundry detergent designed for delicate baby clothes and sensitive skin.
Trusted by parents and pediatricians alike, this gentle yet effective formula helps remove common baby stains while keeping fabrics soft and comfortable.
It’s hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals like chlorine, dyes, and phosphates, and works in both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washing machines.
With a light, baby-fresh scent, Dreft Stage 1 lets you care for your baby’s laundry with confidence, wrapping newborn essentials in clean, soft fabric that’s kinder to tender skin and ideal for daily washing routines.
Pros
- Gentle on delicate newborn skin
- Hypoallergenic and pediatrician recommended
- Effective on common baby stains
- Works in HE and standard machines
- Trusted brand with long history
Cons
- Typically pricier than generic detergents
- May be scented (not fully fragrance-free)
- Larger bottles take space
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of detergent is safest for newborn clothing?
Look for a hypoallergenic, fragrance‑free, and dye‑free detergent. These formulas are designed to minimize skin irritation and are often labeled “baby‑safe” or “sensitive skin.”
Enzyme‑free options are also a good choice because they’re less likely to leave residue that could cause a rash.
How many detergent pods or scoops should I use for a baby load?
Use half the recommended amount for a regular adult load. Newborn clothes are usually lightweight and don’t need a full dose. Over‑dosing can leave detergent buildup, which may irritate delicate skin.
Always follow the detergent’s instructions and adjust based on load size and water hardness.
Can I use natural or homemade detergents on newborn garments?
Yes, many parents successfully use plant‑based or DIY detergents (e.g., a mix of washing soda, baking soda, and a mild castile soap). Just ensure the recipe is free of added fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
Test a small piece first to confirm it rinses cleanly and doesn’t cause any skin reaction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right detergent for your newborn’s wardrobe is ultimately about balancing safety, effectiveness, and peace of mind.
Prioritize formulas that are free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances, as these reduce the risk of skin irritation while still delivering a thorough clean.
Look for gentle, hypoallergenic options that have been dermatologically tested and are compatible with both high‑efficiency and traditional machines.
Remember that a mild rinse cycle and proper water temperature can further protect delicate fabrics and your baby’s sensitive skin. By focusing on these core principles, you’ll keep those tiny garments fresh, soft, and safe for every cuddle and adventure.
Henry Kenner