Why do you need a fabric softener for babies with sensitive skin?
Babies have sensitive skin, and a fabric softener can help to keep their clothes soft and comfortable. It can also help to reduce the number of irritants that can cause rashes or other skin problems. Fabric softeners are usually made from natural ingredients, so they are gentle on sensitive skin. Parents can find fabric softener at most stores that sell laundry detergent. Let`s answer all the questions from the very beginning.
How does fabric softener for babies work?
Fabric softeners are used to enhance the texture of clothes and fabrics. They also reduce drying time, soften fabric, help protect against damage caused by ironing/pressing, soothe skin irritation, and provide a pleasant scent. Fabric-softener imparts residual chemicals to fabrics that deposit on the fibers. Fabrics washed in excess absorb too much of these residues that can irritate delicate skin or cause allergic reactions.
However, not all fabric softeners are equal. Some contain harmful chemicals that may be absorbed through your baby's delicate skin while others deliver an added fragrance intended to mask urine odor (which is why they work great for cloth diapers).
What are the risks for people with sensitive skin?
Allergic reactions occur when sensitive people come into contact with certain substances their bodies cannot tolerate. The substances cause the immune system to release antibodies that attack the allergen. People who are allergic to, say, pollen may sneeze when they come in contact with it. Those who are allergic to peanuts can experience trouble breathing or even go into shock.
Some babies experience skin rashes every time they wear clothes washed in fabric softener while others develop them while wearing clothes washed in baby laundry detergent. This is especially true if your little one has sensitive skin which is more prone to irritation and itching.
But why does this happen? How does conventional fabric softener affect your baby's health?
Chemicals responsible for allergies: Some chemicals found in softeners like benzyl acetate (a natural constituent of many flowers) are known to cause allergies. Others are suspected of causing several health problems. For instance, diethyl phthalate (DEP) is linked to learning disabilities because it interferes with the action of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Studies have also found that exposure to DEP may result in changes in the male reproductive system.
More skin irritants: Diethanolamine (DEA), a corrosive liquid used as a wetting agent or conditioner, can lead to inflammation and rashes on sensitive skin. Formaldehyde, benzyl alcohol, methanol, and ethanol are just some examples of other chemicals commonly found in fabric softeners that can cause dryness, irritation, itching, and allergic reactions that lead to rashes among other problems.
Scented products cause respiratory problems: It's common knowledge that scented products, particularly those with chemical fragrances, can trigger allergies and asthma attacks among sensitive people.
The chemicals found in fabric softeners are known to contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are harmful to the respiratory system. They are also responsible for increasing chronic illnesses ranging from heart disease, lung cancer, kidney problems, and miscarriages to brain tumors. Pregnant women exposed to high levels of VOCs have higher risks of giving birth prematurely or having babies with birth defects.
What else do you need to know about fabric softeners?
Certain ingredients present in conventional fabric softeners may be irritating but you should also consider why your little one has sensitive skin. The root cause could be caused by your baby's diet, hygiene, environment, medications, allergies to other chemicals, etc. To make sure she does not develop an allergy to fabric softener (or any other product), stick with natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda.
The good news is you don't have to give up using fabric softener completely. There are still natural alternatives that are just as effective, if not more so. You can use them on your baby's clothing without the risk of exposing her to harmful chemicals found in conventional products.
What are the best fabric softeners for babies with sensitive skin?
Such fabric softeners should contain natural ingredients like essential oils, baking soda, borax, and vinegar. They should be free of artificial dyes, fragrances, and preservatives.
Here are some of the best fabric softeners for babies with sensitive skin:
- Noodle & Boo Ultra-Soft Fabric Conditioner for Baby
This fabric softener is made from natural ingredients like chamomile, aloe vera, calendula, and lavender. It's free of artificial fragrances, dyes, phthalates, sulfates, parabens, and PEG. It is dermatologist-tested for extra protection against skin irritants. Its hypoallergenic formula also contains no gluten or soy proteins.
- Planet Ultra Laundry Detergent
This all-natural soap boasts an organic formula that combines organic coconut oil with Vitamin E to nourish your little one's sensitive skin. It can be used as a baby laundry detergent, shampoo, or bubble bath so you don't have to buy multiple products just to give your baby a safe bath.
- SUAVITEL Fabric Softener
This product is free of sulfates, parabens, and dyes. It is made with gentle ingredients that are mild enough for babies with sensitive skin. What's more, it can be used as a hair detangler after bath time to help brush your baby's hair without tugging or pulling.
Your baby will love the fresh, clean smell of this fabric softener. They won't irritate her skin and will keep her clothes soft and smooth without exposing her to harmful chemicals found in conventional fabric softeners. Shop online for quality natural baby care products at reasonable prices.
- Downy Ultra Liquid Fabric Softener
This fabric softener is formulated with the Downy Ultra-Fresh formula to keep your baby's clothes smelling fresh and clean all day. Just one whiff of its fresh scent will transport you to a cool breeze on a hot summer day. It provides long-lasting static control, too.
Downy is a trusted brand in the fabric care industry for over 50 years. It is a highly recommended product by pediatricians, dermatologists, and allergists because it guarantees natural softness with its Triple Action formula.
Downy is available in three variants: Baby, Original, and Free & Sensitive. They all have the same wonderful scent but come in different formulas to suit your baby's varying needs as she grows from a newborn up to an active toddler who loves playing outdoors.
- Snuggle Liquid Fabric Softener
This fabric softener promises to keep your baby's clothes looking and smelling like new. It leaves a fresh, clean scent that stays with her all day long. Just one whiff will instantly calm and relax you as well.
Snuggle is ideal for machine-washable clothing, blankets, towels, and even stuffed toys. You can use it as a diaper pail deodorizer or freshener for the bathroom as well.
All Snuggle fabric conditioners come in three variants: Gentle Lavender, Fresh Spring Waters, and Baby Fresh. They all have their own unique scent but perform the same function of keeping your baby's clothes and towels smelling fresh and clean after washing or drying them with dryer sheets.
- ATTITUDE Little One’s Hypoallergenic Baby Fabric Softener
This fabric softener for sensitive skin is made up of 99% natural ingredients. It is free from artificial fragrances, colors, and preservatives. It's also paraben- and sulfate-free and is never tested on animals.
This product can be used as a fabric softener for baby clothes by parents, as well as adult bedding and towels. Its hypoallergenic formula makes it gentle enough even for babies with eczema or skin allergies.
- Seventh Generation Lavender Fabric Softener
This lavender-scented product is a household staple for many families. Just a few squirts will leave your baby's clothes smelling fresh and clean without the use of artificial fragrances. The lavender essential oil in this fabric softener provides a calming effect that helps babies sleep well at night.
To save time, you can also add it to the washing machine as you load the baby's dirty laundry or as part of your regular wash routine before drying her clothes on high heat for 10 minutes.
- Dropps Fabric Softener Ultra Concentrated Pods Unscented
In case parents search for the best fabric softener for babies with sensitive skin, you should explore Dropps Ultra Concentrated. As per the claims of the manufacturer, it is a 100% plant-based product and can be utilized in any home laundry setting.
Dropps pods are available in three scents: unscented, lavender, and free + clear. It guarantees to provide long-lasting freshness even when your baby's clothing is exposed to harsh environments like gym equipment or dance studios.
- Tangent GC Organic Fabric Softener with Kiyomi Perfume
Tangent GC Fabric Softener can be a perfect laundry solution for your baby. It is enriched with organic botanical extracts and plant-based surfactants. That's why this product has been included in the list of best baby fabric conditioners. Manufacturers claim that it is safe to use on all kinds of fabrics - from linens, blankets, or towels to baby clothing and bedding.
- Parachute Wool Dryer Balls
If you are on the lookout for a fabric softener for baby clothes, you will appreciate Parachute dryer balls. These environmentally friendly laundry accessories eliminate the need for liquid conditioners and liquid fabric enhancers.
Just add a pair of these natural woolen balls to your dryer and they will reduce drying time by 25-40%. It means that it will cut down on energy costs as well. You can also use one or two of them when tumble drying your little one's clothes to add extra fluffiness and freshness to her outfits.
How can you choose a good fabric softener for your baby?
On its label, the fabric softener will look like a creamy liquid that is made with artificial fragrances and dyes. It can be a white or pale pearl in color. You should always pick a fragrance-free formula to avoid irritating your baby's sensitive skin. And even if she doesn't have any allergies yet, it would be wise to start avoiding synthetic fragrances right away.
Also, you should avoid such components as quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) and optical brighteners. They can cause skin allergies, while the latter is associated with carcinogenic effects.
What about fabric softener for sensitive skin eczema?
If you have sensitive skin or eczema, however, finding the right fabric softener may be a challenge. There are many different types of fabric softeners on the market today, ranging from inexpensive liquid conditioners to pricey dryer sheets. And while some people swear by certain brands or formulas, that doesn’t mean they will necessarily work well with your skin type or condition. So how do you find the best fabric softener if you have eczema?
The National Eczema Association (NEA) recommends that people with eczema use fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergents and fabric conditioners. In addition, they advise against using any products that contain lanolin, which is a common allergen. If you have sensitive skin, it’s also important to avoid fabric softeners that contain harsh chemicals or irritants.
Best fabric softener for baby clothes: what to look at?
Always read the labels on your fabric softener before making a purchase decision. When it comes to babies, you need to pay attention not only to their contents but also to more specific attributes of particular products.
It's important that the formula doesn't contain any sulfates or phosphates because they can be harmful to infants' delicate and sensitive skin. And last but not least, don't forget about compatibility with your washer or dryer. It would be frustrating if your laundry routine has broken just because you picked the wrong fabric softener.
Scented products have been used in US homes since the 1950s. In spite of a number of new chemicals invented for making laundry easier, fragrances are still very popular among housewives.
Softeners can be added to your baby's laundry during different steps of your typical washing routine: from pre-wash through the main wash and up to the final rinse. Just remember that it might not be suitable for all types of fabrics. To make sure that you do everything right, follow instructions on a package carefully or ask a sales representative at your local store for more details.
Do you need a fabric softener?
Maybe your baby's clothing is not stiff enough, or it's too clingy. You might think that you don't need a fabric softener because your baby's clothes already feel smooth and nice.
But it can affect how your baby appears in public. Do you want her to wear only wrinkle-free ensembles? If so, then fabric conditioners will help you take care of this problem.
Best fabric softener for babies with sensitive skin: what are the benefits?
Fabric softeners work by reducing static cling. They add an extra layer of protection from irritants, which may be either dust mites or detergent residues. In addition, they keep both natural and synthetic fabrics from breaking apart in high-efficiency washing machines.
If you want to make your baby's clothes extra smooth, you might consider adding a fabric softener during the final rinse of your laundry. It will provide an even better effect if you go for a triple rinse.
Also, it might be helpful not only for your baby's wardrobe but also for her toys and bedding. If she suffers from eczema or other skin allergies, then the chemical residue left on her items after washing is really important.
Fabric conditioners can be used as dryer sheets as well to keep lint at bay and protect both natural and synthetic fabrics from such problems as static cling or fading.
What are their disadvantages?
You should keep in mind that fabric softeners might impair the absorbency of your baby's clothing. That's why it would be wise to use them only if you really need this effect.
Fabric softeners may not be compatible with all types of washing machines, which means that they are not suitable for front-loaders or high-efficiency ones. If you have one of those washers, then it might cause some problems during the spin cycle.