If you have sensitive skin and are prone to things like skin allergies, eczema and rashes, even doing the laundry can be a challenge. I know, it's something I deal with myself. here's a few tips I have come up with along the way.
#1 Use the right detergent: I've tried many different brands. One major manufacture has a "free" version of their detergent. It is blue, so I assume the "free" portion just means no added scents as the blue must have come from a dye or other additive. I do know that using their product caused my skin to break out. A store brand I tried also had the same blue color, gave me the same rash and has me thinking they must have this major brand package their store brand. I've heard several people make the same comment about this detergent and it's effect on their skin. There are two other brands which state no added dyes or scents. I can use these in a pinch, but after a bit the
optical brighteners begin to give my skin problems. i have found using Fuller 86 Laundry Detergent meets my needs the best. I generally use the liquid, however I have also used the powder and usually have both on hand. In either case, you can generally use about 2/3 of the amount recommended on the package.
#2 Pre-Treating Stains: Here is another area where irritating chemicals can get into our clothes. So far, I have used two methods to pre-treat my clothes when needed. I simply put the Fuller 86 liquid full strength on the stain. Since I am using 1oz per load, if it takes the whole ounce to treat the stain I do not add any more detergent to that load. UNLESS, it is a load of very dirty clothes. I have also made a pre-treatment stain spray by putting 6oz of Fuller 86 liquid in quart spray bottle, fill it with water and gently agitate it to mix. I then use that as a pre-treat spray and add detergent as normal.
#3
Color Boosting: Here is another area where chemicals that can irritate skin are added. For as natural a booster as possible, try using Borax. It is most commonly sold as "20 Mule Team(R) Borax" as a natural laundry booster. That is what it does, it boosts the laundry detergent and provides an alternative to color safe bleaches.
#4
Softening: To avoid the chemicals in fabric softeners, try adding 1/4 - 1/2 cup of baking soda to your wash water. This will help make your clothes soft without chemical irritants. Once you've tried this and if you desire to get the best price on baking soda, call a local feed store (or two) and ask about food grade baking soda. It will come in large bags at a much lower price per pound then the 1 or 2 pound box in the grocery store.
#5
Avoiding Dryer Static: To avoid "static cling" in your dryer do two things. One, dry cottons and man made fabrics separately. Two, try
Static Eliminator Re-Usable Dryer Sheet
in your dryer. I have been using these for years and am super satisfied with them.
By following some or all of these tips you should be able to have clean clothes and give your sensitive skin a break, not a break-out!
