The arrival of a new baby is a whirlwind of joy, wonder, and… laundry. Endless piles of laundry. From bibs overflowing with pureed peas to the inevitable diaper mishaps, keeping those tiny clothes clean can feel like a full-time job. But for parents with babies and individuals with sensitive skin, traditional laundry routines can present a challenge. Harsh chemicals in detergents and fabric softeners can irritate delicate skin, leading to discomfort and even rashes.
The good news: achieving clean, soft laundry doesn't have to come at the expense of your skin or the environment. Here, we explore the challenges of washing clothes for babies and those with sensitive skin and offer tips for creating an eco-friendly laundry routine that's gentle on both skin and the planet.
The Trouble with Traditional Laundry Products
Conventional laundry detergents are often packed with harsh chemicals like sulphates and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients can be highly effective at cleaning clothes, but they can also be incredibly harsh on sensitive skin. Symptoms like itching, redness, and irritation are all too common.
Traditional fabric softeners are similarly problematic. Often containing chemicals like quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), they can leave a residue on clothes that can irritate sensitive skin. Additionally, many fabric softeners rely on synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergies and asthma.
Sensitivity in Newborns and Babies
Newborn and baby skin is incredibly delicate, much thinner and more absorbent than adult skin. This makes them more susceptible to irritation and dryness. While some sensitivity is normal, understanding the signs and triggers can help keep your little one comfortable.
Common Signs of Sensitive Skin:
- Dryness: Patchy dry skin, especially on cheeks, is a common occurrence in babies.
- Redness: Red patches or irritation may appear due to dry skin, allergies, or contact dermatitis.
- Eczema: Atopic eczema, a chronic skin condition characterised by red, itchy patches, can affect some babies.
- Hives: Raised, itchy welts could indicate an allergic reaction to a product or food.
Potential Triggers for Sensitive Skin:
- Harsh chemicals: Fragranced soaps, detergents, or fabric softeners can irritate sensitive skin.
- Dry weather: Low humidity or cold weather can exacerbate dry skin.
- Irritants: Wool, synthetic fabrics, or rough textures can cause discomfort.
- Food allergies: Certain food allergies can manifest through skin issues.
Tips for Managing Sensitive Skin:
- Use gentle, fragrance-free products formulated for babies.
- Bathe your baby 2-3 times a week with lukewarm water.
- Moisturise regularly with a paediatrician-approved baby lotion.
- Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
- Identify and avoid potential triggers.
Consult your paediatrician if you're concerned about your baby's skin sensitivity or if symptoms worsen. They can recommend specific treatments or address any underlying allergies.
The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Laundry Products
Averdant's Ultra-Sensitive Eco Laundry Liquid and Ultra-Sensitive Eco Fabric Softener offer a kinder alternative for both your baby and the environment.
- Gentle, Plant-Based Ingredients: Made with 100% natural, plant-derived ingredients, these products are free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. This reduces the risk of skin irritation and allergies, making them perfect for babies and those with sensitive skin.
- Effective Cleaning Power: Don't be fooled by the gentle nature of these products. Averdant's Ultra-Sensitive Eco Laundry Liquid utilises powerful plant-based enzymes to effectively break down dirt, stains, and baby messes. This ensures your baby's clothes get clean without compromising on gentleness.
- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Averdant products are formulated with plant-derived ingredients that are biodegradable and safe for the environment. Additionally, Averdant's concentrated formulas require less product per load, reducing waste. This makes them a perfect fit for eco-conscious parents and anyone looking for a more sustainable laundry solution.
Beyond the Product: Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips for Sensitive Skin
Choosing the right detergent and softener is just one piece of the eco-friendly laundry puzzle. Here are some additional tips to keep your baby's clothes (and yours, if you have sensitive skin) clean and soft while minimising environmental impact:
- Embrace the Power of Cold Water: Most detergents, including Averdant's Ultra-Sensitive Laundry Liquid, are formulated to work effectively in cold water. Washing in cold water not only saves energy but also helps preserve the colour and elasticity of fabrics.
- Line Dry When Possible: Skip the dryer! Sun and fresh air are natural disinfectants and leave clothes smelling fresh. Line drying is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Wash Full Loads: This helps conserve water and energy. However, avoid overloading your washing machine, as this can lead to inadequate cleaning.
- Pre-treat Stains Naturally: For stubborn stains, reach for natural stain removers like baking soda, lemon juice, or white vinegar. These are gentle on skin and effective on a variety of stains.
- Wash New Clothes Before Wearing: New clothes, especially baby clothes, often come pre-treated with chemicals to prevent wrinkles or mildew. Wash new clothes before your baby wears them to remove any potential irritants.
- Choose the Right Detergent Amount: More detergent isn't always better. Using too much detergent can leave a residue on clothes that can irritate skin. Follow the dosing instructions on the Averdant Ultra-Sensitive Eco Laundry Liquid bottle for optimal cleaning power without overdoing it.
- Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Choose the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine for baby clothes and clothes for sensitive skin. This uses a slower spin speed and less agitation, which can be gentler on fabrics and reduce the risk of shrinkage.
- Skip the Bleach: Chlorine bleach is harsh on both skin and fabrics. Instead, Choose natural alternatives like oxygen bleach for stubborn stains. Oxygen bleach is safe for colours and releases oxygen bubbles to break down stains.
- Invest in a Mesh Laundry Bag: Mesh laundry bags are great for washing delicate items like baby socks. They protect these items from getting tangled or snagged in the washing machine, preventing unnecessary wear and tear. This extends the life of your clothes and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
- Beware of Dryer Sheets: The chemicals used in dryer sheets can irritate sensitive skin. Choose wool dryer balls or air dry your laundry outdoors for a natural way to soften clothes and reduce static cling.
- Clean Your Machine Regularly: Build-up of detergent residue in your washing machine can lead to ineffective cleaning and irritate skin. Clean your washing machine with a vinegar and water solution every few months.
Embrace the Joy of Eco-Friendly Laundry
Caring for your baby's clothes can be a labour of love. By choosing eco-friendly laundry products like Averdant's Ultra-Sensitive Eco Laundry Liquid and Fabric Softener, you can ensure your little one's clothes are clean and soft without compromising their delicate skin. By implementing these simple eco-friendly practices, you'll also be doing your part to protect the environment and create a more sustainable future for your little one to grow up in.