Best Laundry Detergents for Eczema 2026 (Australian Brands)

Eczema-prone skin has a compromised barrier function, making it more permeable to irritants that healthy skin would typically repel. When clothing fibres retain traces of harsh detergents, fragrances, optical brighteners, or enzymes, these chemicals sit against vulnerable skin all day and night—creating a constant low-level irritation that can trigger or worsen flares.

According to the Eczema Association Australasia, laundry products are among the most common contact irritants for people with atopic dermatitis. This doesn't mean detergent causes eczema, but it can certainly aggravate an already reactive skin barrier.

The solution isn't necessarily buying the most expensive option. It's understanding which specific ingredients trigger reactions and choosing formulas that minimize those risks while still effectively cleaning clothes. When combined with eczema-friendly fabric choices and proper washing techniques, the right detergent becomes part of a comprehensive approach to reducing skin irritation.

Key Characteristics to Look For:

Free from common irritants:

• Synthetic fragrances and perfumes
• Optical brighteners
• Harsh surfactants (SLS/SLES)
• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
• Chlorine bleach alternatives
• Excessive enzymes (though some gentle enzymes may be acceptable)

Formulation features:

• Dermatologically tested or approved
• Recognized by Sensitive Choice® or Eczema Association Australasia
• Plant or mineral-based cleaning agents
• Low-residue formulas that rinse thoroughly
• Hypoallergenic certification
• pH-balanced for sensitive skin

Practical considerations:

• Effective stain removal in cold water (reduces energy costs and is gentler on bamboo and delicate eczema clothing)
• Suitable for both front and top loaders
• Available in Australian supermarkets or health stores
• Transparent ingredient disclosure

Understanding these criteria helps you evaluate any detergent, even if it's not specifically marketed for eczema. The best choice balances skin safety with cleaning effectiveness—because inadequately cleaned clothes can harbor dust mites, bacteria, and other eczema triggers.

1. Bosisto's Sensitive Laundry Liquid / Powder

What makes it suitable for eczema: Australian-made formula featuring pure eucalyptus oil, which naturally helps remove dust mite allergens—a significant trigger for many people with eczema. Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic.

Key features:

• Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, enzymes, and optical brighteners
• Suitable for front and top loaders
• Septic and grey-water safe
• Eucalyptus oil provides natural antibacterial properties without harsh chemicals

Best for: Families dealing with dust mite sensitivities alongside eczema, or those who prefer Australian-made products with natural ingredients.

Considerations: While eucalyptus is generally well-tolerated, a small number of people with very reactive skin may be sensitive to essential oils. Test on a small load first if this is a concern.

2. Ecostore Ultra Sensitive Laundry Liquid / Powder

What makes it suitable for eczema: Officially recognized by the Eczema Association Australasia and approved by the Sensitive Choice® program—two independent endorsements that carry significant weight for eczema management.

Key features:

• Plant and mineral-based formula
• Completely fragrance-free and dye-free
• No phosphates, optical brighteners, or harsh surfactants
• Effective cold-water cleaning
• Biodegradable and environmentally sustainable

Best for: Highly sensitive skin, babies and children with moderate to severe eczema, or anyone who has reacted to multiple "sensitive" detergents in the past.

Why experts recommend it: Consistent positive feedback from dermatologists and eczema support organizations. The ultra-sensitive formulation prioritizes skin safety without compromising cleaning power for everyday laundry.

3. Cold Power Sensitive Pure Clean Laundry Detergent

What makes it suitable for eczema: Dermatologist-recommended and approved by the National Asthma Council's Sensitive Choice® program. Formulated specifically for sensitive skin with reduced potential irritants.

Key features:

• Outstanding performance in cold water (energy-efficient)
• Free from fragrances, dyes, and enzymes
• Widely available in major Australian supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths)
• Affordable compared to specialty health-store brands
• Available in both powder and liquid formulations

Best for: Budget-conscious families who need reliable eczema-safe cleaning from mainstream retailers, or those who prefer cold-water washing to protect bamboo clothing fibres.

Practical advantage: Accessibility matters. When you can grab eczema-friendly detergent during regular grocery shopping, maintaining consistent laundry practices becomes easier.

4. Abode Zero Laundry Liquid

What makes it suitable for eczema: Specifically formulated for hypersensitive skin using food-grade plant and mineral ingredients. This is the most minimalist option on the market for Australian families.

Key features:

• Free from all fragrances (not just synthetic—truly unscented)
• No allergens, enzymes, or optical brighteners
• Plant and mineral-based surfactants only
• Australian-made
• Works in hot or cold water, suitable for all machine types

Best for: Severe eczema, multiple chemical sensitivities, or babies with extremely reactive skin who've had adverse reactions to other "sensitive" formulas.

Considerations: Higher price point than mainstream options, typically found in health food stores or online. The ultra-gentle formula may require pre-treating heavily soiled items.

5. Earthwise Sensitive Clean Laundry Liquid

What makes it suitable for eczema: Environmentally focused brand with dermatologically tested, fragrance-free formula. Uses naturally derived enzymes that are effective yet gentler than synthetic alternatives.

Key features:

• Plant-based stain-fighting enzymes
• Works effectively in cold washes
• Dermatologically tested
• Cruelty-free and vegan
• Free from phosphates, chlorinated bleach, ammonia, and optical brighteners

Best for: Environmentally conscious families who want cleaning power without compromising on skin safety, or those managing mild to moderate eczema alongside stain-removal needs.

Why it stands out: Strikes a balance between eco-friendly credentials and practical effectiveness. The naturally derived enzymes provide better stain removal than completely enzyme-free options while remaining gentler than synthetic enzymes.

Step 1: Identify Your Specific Triggers

Not everyone with eczema reacts to the same ingredients. Keep a simple washing diary for 2-3 weeks:

• Note which detergent you used
• Track any flare-ups or increased itching
• Record other variables (new clothing, temperature changes, stress)

This helps identify whether detergent is truly the issue and which ingredients to avoid.

Step 2: Consider Your Washing Needs

For newborns and babies: Ultra-sensitive formulas like Ecostore Ultra Sensitive or Abode Zero minimize risk during the most vulnerable period. Washing eczema-appropriate sleepwear properly from the start establishes good habits.

For active children: Cold Power Sensitive or Earthwise balance skin safety with stain-fighting power needed for grass stains, food spills, and daily wear. One often-overlooked challenge: removing eczema cream residue without using harsh stain removers. Our guide to cleaning clothes stained with greasy eczema creams offers gentle yet effective solutions that work with eczema-friendly detergents.

For adults with eczema: Focus on formulas that rinse thoroughly and work well in cold water to protect delicate fabrics. Check our adult eczema sleepwear guidance for fabric-specific washing tips.

Step 3: Test Carefully

When trying a new detergent:

1. Wash one or two items (ideally something that doesn't contact skin directly, like towels)
2. If no reaction after a few days, wash a full load of clothes
3. Start with items worn for shorter periods (t-shirts vs. sleepwear)
4. Gradually transition your entire laundry routine if the test is successful

This methodical approach prevents large-scale flare-ups from switching detergents too quickly.

Step 4: Match Detergent to Fabric Type

Different eczema-friendly fabrics require different care:

• Bamboo clothing benefits from cold-water, gentle formulas (all options above work well)
• Cotton eczema clothing can handle slightly more robust cleaning
• Eczema sleeves and specialized items require the gentlest formulas

For detailed washing instructions for eczema-specific clothing, see our guide on how eczema sleeves work and proper care techniques.

Mistake #1: Assuming "Natural" Equals "Eczema-Safe"

Natural ingredients can still trigger reactions. Essential oils, plant extracts, and botanical fragrances are natural but may irritate sensitive skin. Always check the full ingredient list rather than relying on marketing terms.

Mistake #2: Using Too Much Detergent

More detergent doesn't mean cleaner clothes—it means more residue left in fabric fibres. Follow dosage instructions carefully, and consider using slightly less than recommended for eczema-prone household members' clothing. For comprehensive guidance on proper detergent dosing and other washing fundamentals, see our simple eczema-safe laundry tips.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Water Temperature

Hot water can set some stains but also breaks down the protective properties of certain eczema-friendly fabrics (particularly bamboo viscose). Cold-water washing with an effective detergent protects both skin and clothing longevity.

Mistake #4: Mixing Detergent with Fabric Softener

Fabric softeners coat fibres with chemicals that commonly trigger eczema flares. Even "sensitive" fabric softeners create buildup. If you want softer clothes, add white vinegar to the rinse cycle instead (½ cup for a full load).

Mistake #5: Not Rinsing Thoroughly

Even eczema-friendly detergent can irritate if residue remains. Run an extra rinse cycle for items that contact skin directly—particularly sleepwear, underwear, and eczema scratch mitts or sleeves.

Mistake #6: Switching Detergents Too Frequently

When eczema flares occur, it's tempting to blame the detergent and immediately switch. But multiple variables affect eczema (weather, stress, diet, illness). Give a new detergent at least 3-4 weeks of consistent use before deciding it's not working, unless you notice an immediate, obvious reaction.

Choosing the right detergent is just one piece of effective eczema management through clothing care. For a complete overview of washing techniques that protect eczema-prone skin, see our simple eczema-safe laundry tips covering everything from load sizing to drying methods.

For comprehensive strategies, see our complete eczema-friendly clothing guide, which covers:

Washing technique:

• Pre-soaking heavily soiled items
• Proper load sizing (overcrowding prevents thorough rinsing)
• Cleaning your washing machine to prevent detergent buildup
• Drying methods that preserve fabric integrity

Fabric selection: The best detergent in the world can't compensate for irritating fabrics. Understanding why bamboo fabric works for eczema helps you build a wardrobe that works with your laundry routine, not against it.

Night-time management: Proper washing of bamboo pajamas for kids with eczema ensures they maintain their itch-reducing properties wash after wash. Sleepwear cleanliness directly impacts night-time scratching and sleep quality.

Protective barriers: Clean eczema sleeves washed in appropriate detergent serve their protective function better. Detergent residue on barrier clothing defeats the purpose.

When reading labels on Australian laundry products, watch for these common eczema triggers:

Fragrances and perfumes:

• Listed as "fragrance," "parfum," or "essential oils"
• Even "natural fragrance" can irritate

Optical brighteners:

• Also called "fluorescent whitening agents" or "FWAs"
• Make whites appear brighter but remain in fabric

Harsh surfactants:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
• Look for gentler alternatives like decyl glucoside or coco glucoside

Preservatives:

• Methylisothiazolinone (MI)
• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
• Parabens

Other triggers:

• Chlorine bleach
• Ammonia
• Phosphates (also environmentally problematic)
• Excessive enzymes (protease, lipase, amylase in high concentrations)

For babies and young children:

• Never use adult detergent on baby items—even "sensitive" adult formulas may be too harsh
• Wash new baby clothes at least twice before first wear
• Keep detergent pods out of reach (poisoning risk)
• Consider washing baby items separately until eczema is well-controlled

For severe eczema:

• Avoid any detergent with fragrance, even if it claims to be "lightly scented" or "naturally fragranced"
• If prescribed medicated clothing or wet wraps, consult your dermatologist about compatible detergents
• Some medical-grade eczema garments require specific washing instructions—always follow manufacturer guidelines

Environmental considerations: Many eczema-friendly detergents are also environmentally sustainable. This isn't just feel-good marketing—fewer synthetic chemicals in waterways and reduced packaging waste benefit everyone's health long-term.

Choosing an eczema-safe detergent is an important step, but it works best as part of a complete approach:

1. Select your detergent based on eczema severity, budget, and availability. Start with one of the top-rated options above.
   
2. Optimize your washing technique (proper dosage, cold water, extra rinse, no fabric softener). Our eczema-safe laundry tips provide step-by-step guidance for every stage of the washing process.
   
3. Invest in eczema-friendly fabrics that work with your washing routine. Our bamboo pajamas collection features clothing designed to maintain its itch-reducing properties even after repeated washing.
   
4. Consider protective clothing for night-time management. Properly washed eczema scratch sleeves provide a barrier that reduces skin damage while you sleep.
   
5. Monitor and adjust based on your family's response. Keep notes about what works and what triggers flares.
   

For comprehensive guidance on managing eczema through clothing, fabric choice, and proper care, explore our Complete Guide to Eczema-Friendly Clothing.

The right laundry detergent won't cure eczema, but it removes one more irritant from your child's day—and every reduction in triggers creates space for skin to heal and strengthen. Combined with thoughtful fabric choices and consistent care routines, these small changes add up to meaningful improvements in comfort, sleep, and quality of life.