Social Moms

Best Laundry Detergent For Cloth Diapers (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for the best laundry detergent for cloth diapers, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. First and foremost, you will want to choose a detergent that is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your baby’s skin. Look for one that is labeled “free and clear” or “hypoallergenic” to ensure it is gentle enough for your little one. Additionally, you'll want to select a detergent that is effective at removing tough stains and odors, yet still eco-friendly and safe for the environment.

When it comes to choosing the best laundry detergent for cloth diapers, it is important to read the labels carefully. Avoid products that contain optical brighteners, which can create optical illusions of cleanliness by making stains and discolorations appear less noticeable. Similarly, avoid products that contain fabric softeners as they can leave a residue on the diapers, reducing their absorbency and leaving them less effective. Instead, look for a detergent that is specifically designed for cloth diapers, or a gentle, low-suds detergent that is free from these additives.

If you're still not sure which laundry detergent is right for your baby's cloth diapers, consider asking yourself the following questions. Are there specific ingredients you want to avoid? How important is environmental sustainability to you? Do you prefer a liquid or powder detergent? By thinking about your priorities and doing a little research, you can choose the best laundry detergent for cloth diapers that will leave your baby's diapers clean, fresh, and comfortable.

10 Best Laundry Detergent For Cloth Diapers

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for removing stains from baby clothes and cloth diapers.
2
Ideal for eco-friendly, hypoallergenic deep cleaning of laundry in both standard and HE washing machines.
3
Ideal for tackling newborn laundry stains with plant and mineral based formula, fragrance-free, comes in easy-to-use pods.
4
Ideal for parents seeking a gentle, eco-friendly laundry detergent for their baby's cloth diapers.
5
Ideal for washing cloth diapers and sensitive skin, using plant-based, biodegradable and odor-fighting formula.
6
This product is ideal for washing baby clothes due to its gentle formula and large capacity.
7
Ideal for cleaning laundry, including baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes, with a non-toxic and fragrance-free formula.
8
This product is ideal for washing clothes that belong to newborn babies.
9
It is ideal for removing stains and refreshing laundry items such as baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes.
10
This product is ideal for whitening, brightening, and refreshing baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes. It's also non-toxic and fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
The product is ideal for removing stains from baby clothes and cloth diapers.
Ideal for eco-friendly, hypoallergenic deep cleaning of laundry in both standard and HE washing machines.
Ideal for tackling newborn laundry stains with plant and mineral based formula, fragrance-free, comes in easy-to-use pods.
Ideal for parents seeking a gentle, eco-friendly laundry detergent for their baby's cloth diapers.
Ideal for washing cloth diapers and sensitive skin, using plant-based, biodegradable and odor-fighting formula.
This product is ideal for washing baby clothes due to its gentle formula and large capacity.
Ideal for cleaning laundry, including baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes, with a non-toxic and fragrance-free formula.
This product is ideal for washing clothes that belong to newborn babies.
It is ideal for removing stains and refreshing laundry items such as baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes.
This product is ideal for whitening, brightening, and refreshing baby cloth diapers, musty towels, and workout clothes. It's also non-toxic and fragrance-free for sensitive skin.

1. Baby-Safe Stain Removal Duo: Dreft & Go

The Dreft Stain Remover set includes (2) 24oz bottles of the stain remover and (1) Dreft To Go Stain Remover Pen, specially formulated to handle tough stains on infants' and children's clothing, cloth diapers, bedding, and blankets.

This USDA certified biobased product is made with plant-based ingredients, ensuring it is free of dyes, chlorine, and phosphates. The hypoallergenic formula is gentle on sensitive skin, making it safe to use on baby clothes and accessories.

Dreft is the #1 pediatrician recommended baby detergent brand, offering a wide range of effective and safe products to keep your baby's items clean. In addition to the laundry stain remover and pen, try the Dreft All Purpose Wipes, Dreft Baby Bottle Dish Soap, and Dreft All Purpose Cleaning Spray.

Subscribing to Dreft's stain remover set ensures that you never run out of this essential product and can save money on future purchases.

Nehemiah Manufacturing Co. proudly produces Dreft Stain Remover in the USA. Every purchase helps provide jobs for Second Chance Employees, making it a product that you can feel good about buying.

2. Eco-Clean Laundry Strips: Deep, Hypoallergenic, 30-Pack.

Looking for a laundry detergent that's both powerful and eco-friendly? Look no further than this deep cleaning laundry detergent. Hypoallergenic and crafted with natural, plant-based ingredients, this detergent is gentle on both fabrics and skin, making it ideal for baby clothes, cloth diapers, towels, delicates, and workout clothing.

This detergent comes in a simple, mess-free sheet design that makes it easy to wash loads and get clothes cleaner. Simply add a strip or section of a strip directly into the drum for quick and convenient use. And because it dissolves quickly in any temperature of water, it can be used with white, darks, colors, delicates, jeans, undergarments, and more.

What's more, this detergent is equally as powerful as top brands, but with a more natural, eco-friendly base. It can remove tough stains and odors, including sweat and harsh smells, without fading vivid colors. And for those who want to keep their whites vibrant, this detergent is a great choice.

In addition to being effective, this laundry detergent is also hypoallergenic, making it safe for those with sensitive skin. And because it supports handwashing and loads of all sizes, it's a versatile choice for anyone looking for a more natural, effective laundry solution.

So if you're looking for a laundry detergent that's both powerful and eco-friendly, try this deep cleaning laundry detergent today. With its simple sheet design, natural ingredients, and ability to remove tough stains and odors, it's sure to become your go-to laundry solution.

3. Pure & Gentle Baby Laundry Pods

Introducing the Grab Green Natural Newborn Baby Unscented Laundry Detergent Pods, a revolutionary product that makes laundry for newborns (0-4 months of age) a breeze. This package contains two 30-pod bags (60 pods in total) with velcro closures that are easy and convenient to use – no more struggling with frustrating zip closures.

This laundry detergent is specifically formulated to remove all sorts of baby stains, including formula, breast milk, spit-up, and diaper disasters. The clean-rinse formula ensures that there is zero residue left behind on clothing and is safe for use with cloth diapers.

Designed with the utmost care for babies with fragrance sensitivities, these pods are hypoallergenic, free and clear of all scents and dyes. They are perfect for parents who want to ensure that their baby's clothes are clean and fresh without any harsh fragrances.

What's more, Grab Green's Baby Collection is made from naturally derived ingredients that are specially formulated to pamper our babies. They are free from parabens, phthalates, and dyes, making them the safer choice for your little one.

Grab Green's plant and mineral-based formulas are responsibly-sourced and of high-quality, making them safer for you, your family, and the planet. They are proudly cruelty-free and never tested on animals. Plus, they are made in the USA, ensuring that you get a product that meets the highest standards of quality.

4. Green Baby Detergent: Pure, Safe, Effective

Rockin Green Cloth Diaper Detergent for Baby Clothes is a reliable and safe solution for parents who want to keep their baby's delicate clothes clean and fresh. It is specially designed to be tough on stains but gentle on the skin, making it an ideal choice for parents who want to avoid harsh chemicals in their laundry detergent.

One of the key features of this baby laundry powder is its non-toxic and all-natural formula. It is made with plant-powered ingredients that are dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, ensuring that it is safe for sensitive skin. This all-natural laundry powder contains gentle enzymes that effectively remove dirt and odor without irritating even the most sensitive skin. It is unscented, making it perfect for parents who prefer fragrance-free products.

Rockin' Green Baby Detergent Powder is specifically designed for cloth baby diapers, making it a favorite among parents who use cloth diapers for their babies. It is compatible with all types of washing machines and can even be used as a soak to eliminate funky odors.

In addition to being effective and safe, Rockin' Green cleaning products are also eco-friendly. They are made with 100% biodegradable ingredients and are free of bleach, dyes, parabens, phosphates, phthalates, SLS/SLES, optical brighteners, and artificial fragrances. These vegan and cruelty-free products help promote a cleaner and greener lifestyle.

Rockin' Green is committed to creating hardworking and biodegradable cleaning products that meet the demands of every family. They encourage customers to join the Rockin’ Green movement and enjoy safe and reliable products. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, their customer support team is available to assist you within 48 hours.

5. Arm & Hammer Baby, 77 Loads Liquid Laundry Detergent, 100.5 Fl Oz

Introducing a baby detergent that is tough on stubborn stains but gentle on delicate newborn skin. This hypoallergenic liquid baby detergent is specially formulated to tackle stains from blueberries, carrot and potato baby food, grape juice, and vegetable and fruit baby food. Its powerful stain-fighting ability ensures that even the toughest of stains don't stand a chance.

The gentle formula of this liquid baby detergent is free from preservatives, phosphates, and dyes. This ensures that it is safe for delicate newborn skin. It is a great option for parents who are looking for a baby detergent that is gentle and safe on their little one's skin.

This hypoallergenic laundry detergent has been pediatrician and dermatologist tested. This ensures that it is a reliable and trustworthy option for parents. The liquid washing detergent is gentle on delicate skin, yet tough on stubborn baby stains. Parents can have peace of mind knowing that they are using a product that is safe and effective.

The baby detergent has been certified by the EPA Safer Choice program. It meets the U.S. EPA Safer Choice product standards and is free from unnecessary chemicals, dyes, phosphates, GMOs, added preservatives, brighteners, parabens, or animal-derived ingredients. This makes it an ideal option for parents who are looking for a product that is environmentally friendly and safe for their newborns.

This hypoallergenic baby laundry detergent is perfect for use as a High Efficiency (HE) laundry detergent liquid. It is tough on stains and can even clean tough stains in cold water. Parents can trust that this product contains trusted ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda for a powerful clean that is gentle on newborn skin.

6. Natural Laundry Powder Pack – Gentle & Effective

Introducing RLR baby laundry detergent, a must-have in your laundry treatment routine. This laundry powder is a miracle worker when it comes to tackling tough stains such as grease, blood, tea, coffee, pee, and poop stains. It can be used in the presoak, prewash, or regular wash cycles and is incredibly effective on both colored and white clothes.

Not only does RLR make white clothes whiter and colored clothes brighter, but it also restores old, musty, and worn clothes to their former glory. It has the power to remove dinginess from soiled diapers, damp towels, and clothes with old perfume smells, Downy scents, and more.

RLR's concentrated formula means you only need one packet to soften hard water and remove stains, dinginess, and funk from both regular and delicate fabrics. It is compatible with HE machines, septic-safe, and won't clog pipes or leave crud on the machine.

What's more, RLR is a natural laundry treatment powder that is safe for sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, vegan, and biodegradable with NO phosphates, parabens, optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, or artificial fragrances.

RLR is part of Cadie's laundry treatment line, a company dedicated to easing and simplifying everyday tasks with eco-friendly products that are proudly made in the USA. Shop other Cadie household products favored by housewives around the world.

7. Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Baby Liquid Laundry Detergent, 114 Loads, 165 Fl Oz

As the top preferred brand of pediatricians, this product is the ideal choice for parents seeking quality care for their newborns. Formulated with the specific needs of newborns in mind, this product is specially designed to provide gentle and effective cleansing. Its hypoallergenic nature ensures that even the most sensitive skin is protected from any potential irritation.

With a trusted reputation spanning over 80 years, this product is a household name among moms worldwide. Many mothers have come to rely on its proven effectiveness and safety, making it a go-to choice for those seeking peace of mind when caring for their little ones.

Not only is this product highly recommended by Pampers, but it is also trusted by countless pediatricians. Its carefully formulated blend of ingredients ensures that it is gentle on delicate skin, yet tough on dirt and grime.

Parents can rest easy knowing that they are using a product that has been rigorously tested and proven to provide exceptional care for their newborns. Whether they are first-time parents or seasoned veterans, this product offers the peace of mind and reassurance that parents need when caring for their little ones.

8. Fresh Baby Diaper And Towel Restorer Kit

Introducing RLR baby laundry detergent, a powerful solution to tough stains that is sure to amaze. This laundry treatment powder is capable of removing stubborn blotches such as grease, blood, tea, coffee, pee, and poop stains effortlessly. RLR can be used as a pre-soak, prewash, or added to the regular wash cycle.

Not only does RLR work wonders on tough stains, but it is also suitable for both colored and white clothes. It brightens white clothes and restores old, musty, worn clothes to their former glory. It also eliminates dinginess from soiled diapers, damp towels, and clothes with old perfume or Downy scents.

RLR's concentrated formula means you only need one packet to soften hard water and remove stains, dinginess, and odor from both regular and delicate fabrics. It is compatible with HE machines, septic-safe, and does not clog pipes or leave any crud on the machine.

RLR is 100% safe for sensitive skin. It is a natural laundry treatment powder that is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, vegan, and biodegradable. It contains no phosphates, parabens, optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, or artificial fragrances. You can rest easy knowing that RLR is a safe and effective choice for your family's laundry needs.

RLR is part of Cadie's laundry treatment line, a company committed to easing and simplifying everyday tasks with eco-friendly products that are proudly made in the USA. If you love RLR, be sure to check out other Cadie household products that are favored by housewives around the world.

9. Revitalize Laundry: Rlr Natural Powder Detergent

Introducing RLR baby laundry detergent, a powerful stain and odor remover that will leave your clothes looking and smelling fresh and new. Whether you're dealing with tough stains like grease, blood, tea, coffee, pee, or poop, RLR works like magic to make them disappear. You can use it as a presoak, prewash, or in your regular wash cycle to get the best results.

RLR is not just for whites – it works equally well on colored clothes, restoring their brightness and removing dinginess. It's perfect for old, musty, or worn clothes that need a little extra TLC. It even removes the lingering smells of old perfumes, Downy scents, and more.

This concentrated formula is easy to use – just one packet is all you need to soften hard water and remove stains, dinginess, and funk from both regular and delicate fabrics. RLR is compatible with HE machines, septic-safe, and won't clog pipes or leave crud on your machine.

RLR is 100% safe for sensitive skin, making it perfect for baby clothes and anyone with allergies or sensitivities. It's hypoallergenic, non-toxic, vegan, and biodegradable, with no phosphates, parabens, optical brighteners, SLS/SLES, or artificial fragrances.

RLR is part of Cadie's laundry treatment line, which includes other eco-friendly products that are proudly made in the USA. Shop other Cadie household products favored by housewives around the world, and discover how easy and simple everyday tasks can be with Cadie.

Best Laundry Detergent For Cloth Diapers FAQs

Are there any laundry detergents that are known to cause rashes or skin irritation in babies?

Yes, there are certain laundry detergents that are known to cause rashes or skin irritation in babies. These detergents often contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or dyes that can be irritating to sensitive skin. Some of the common ingredients that can cause skin irritation in babies include sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, artificial fragrances, and dyes.

To prevent skin irritation in babies, it is recommended to use a gentle, fragrance-free, and dye-free laundry detergent. Look for detergents that are specifically formulated for babies or those that are labeled as hypoallergenic. It is also important to rinse baby clothes thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent residue.

If your baby develops a rash or skin irritation, consider switching to a different laundry detergent or using a hypoallergenic fabric softener. You can also try washing baby clothes separately from the rest of the family's laundry to avoid any potential cross-contamination. If the rash persists, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician.

Are there any laundry detergents that are safe for use with cloth diapers and also safe for septic systems?

Yes, there are laundry detergents that are safe for use with cloth diapers and also safe for septic systems. Cloth diapers require a specific type of detergent that is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and fabric softeners. These chemicals can cause buildup on the diapers, leading to leaks, odor, and decreased absorbency. Additionally, using a detergent that is safe for septic systems is important because septic tanks are sensitive to harsh chemicals and can be easily damaged.

Some popular brands of laundry detergent that are safe for use with cloth diapers and septic systems include Tide Free and Gentle, Seventh Generation Free and Clear, and Charlie's Soap. It's important to follow the instructions on the detergent label and use the recommended amount for the size of the load. It's also recommended to do an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is removed from the diapers.

Overall, using a detergent that is safe for both cloth diapers and septic systems is important for maintaining the effectiveness of both and ensuring that they function properly.

Are there any laundry detergents that are specifically recommended for use with certain types of cloth diapers, such as pocket diapers or prefolds?

Yes, there are laundry detergents that are specifically recommended for use with certain types of cloth diapers. The choice of detergent largely depends on the type of cloth diaper material you are using. For instance, pocket diapers and prefolds require a detergent that can effectively clean and remove stains without leaving any residue that can clog the fabric's pores or cause diaper rash.

Some of the recommended detergents for use with cloth diapers include Tide Free and Gentle, Seventh Generation, and Charlie's Soap. These detergents are known for their effectiveness in removing stains and bacteria while being gentle on the fabric.

It's important to note that not all detergents are suitable for use with cloth diapers, as some contain additives and fragrances that can cause irritation and damage the fabric. It's recommended to avoid using fabric softeners and bleach with cloth diapers, as they can weaken the fabric and reduce its absorbency.

In summary, it's important to choose a detergent that is specifically recommended for use with cloth diapers and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal results.

Are there any natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents that are effective for cloth diapers?

Yes, there are many natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents available in the market that are effective for cloth diapers. Cloth diapers are delicate and require special care while washing to maintain their absorbency and durability. Natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents are gentle on the fabric and do not contain harmful chemicals that can damage the diapers.

Some popular natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents that are effective for cloth diapers include Seventh Generation, Ecover, Biokleen, and Charlie's Soap. These detergents are made from natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals like phosphates, dyes, and fragrances. They are also biodegradable, which means they are safe for the environment.

It is important to note that not all natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents are suitable for cloth diapers. Some may not be strong enough to remove stains and odors, so it is essential to choose a detergent that is specifically designed for cloth diapers. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets, as they can reduce the absorbency of the diapers.

Can using the wrong laundry detergent cause cloth diaper leaks or damage to the fabric?

Yes, using the wrong laundry detergent can cause cloth diaper leaks and damage the fabric. Cloth diapers are made of absorbent materials such as cotton, bamboo, or hemp, which require a specific type of detergent to maintain their absorbency and integrity. Using a detergent that contains fabric softeners, fragrances, or other additives can leave a residue on the fabric, which can cause leaks and reduce the absorbency of the diaper. Additionally, some detergents can cause the fabric to break down over time, leading to holes or tears in the diaper. It is important to choose a detergent that is specifically designed for cloth diapers and does not contain any harmful ingredients. Many cloth diaper manufacturers recommend using a detergent that is free of fragrances, dyes, enzymes, and optical brighteners. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's washing instructions and avoid using too much detergent or fabric softener. Proper care and maintenance of cloth diapers can help extend their lifespan and prevent leaks or damage.

Does the best laundry detergent for cloth diapers need to be specifically formulated for babies?

The best laundry detergent for cloth diapers does not necessarily need to be specifically formulated for babies, but it should meet certain criteria. A good cloth diaper detergent should be free of any harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that could irritate a baby's sensitive skin. It should also be able to effectively remove stains and odors from cloth diapers without leaving any residue behind.

While some baby-specific laundry detergents may meet these criteria, there are also non-baby-specific options that can work well for cloth diapers. Look for detergents that are labeled as "free and clear" or "sensitive skin" formulations, as these are often designed to be gentle on skin.

Ultimately, the best detergent for cloth diapers will depend on your personal preferences and your baby's individual needs. It may take some trial and error to find the right detergent that works well for your cloth diapers and your baby's skin.

How much laundry detergent should be used for a load of cloth diapers?

When it comes to washing cloth diapers, using the right amount of detergent is crucial to ensure that they come out clean and odor-free. The amount of detergent needed depends on various factors such as the type of detergent, the hardness of your water, and the size of your load.

As a general rule of thumb, a full load of cloth diapers typically requires around 1-2 tablespoons of detergent. However, it's important to check the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of detergent you are using, as some brands may require more or less.

It's also important to avoid using too much detergent, as this can lead to a buildup of residue on your diapers, causing them to become less absorbent and more prone to leaks. If you notice that your diapers are still dirty or smelling after washing, it may be a sign that you need to adjust the amount of detergent you are using or switch to a different brand.

How often should cloth diapers be washed, and does the frequency of washing affect the choice of laundry detergent?

The frequency of washing cloth diapers depends on several factors, such as the age of the baby, the number of diapers in rotation, and the type of cloth diaper used. In general, cloth diapers should be washed every two to three days to prevent odors and bacteria growth. This means that if you have 24 cloth diapers in rotation, you should wash them every two to three days.

When it comes to choosing a laundry detergent for cloth diapers, it's important to select one that is free of fragrances, dyes, and fabric softeners. These ingredients can cause irritation to a baby's sensitive skin and affect the absorbency of the diaper. It's also recommended to avoid using detergents with enzymes, optical brighteners, and chlorine bleach, as these can damage the fabric and reduce the lifespan of the diaper.

Some popular choices for cloth diaper laundry detergent include brands like Tide Free and Gentle, Seventh Generation, and Charlie's Soap. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the amount of detergent to use and the washing cycle to ensure that the diapers are properly cleaned and maintained.

Should fabric softener be used with cloth diapers, and if so, which ones are safe to use?

Fabric softeners should generally be avoided when washing cloth diapers. This is because fabric softeners contain chemicals that can leave a residue on the fabric, reducing its absorbency and causing leaks. Additionally, some babies may have sensitive skin and may develop rashes or irritation when exposed to the chemicals used in fabric softeners.

However, there are some fabric softeners that are safe to use with cloth diapers. These are typically plant-based and free of synthetic fragrances and dyes. Some examples include Seventh Generation Fabric Softener, Ecover Fabric Softener, and Molly's Suds Wool Dryer Balls.

It's important to note that using fabric softener can void the warranty on some cloth diapers, so be sure to check with the manufacturer before using any products. Additionally, if you do choose to use fabric softener, it's a good idea to use it sparingly and only as needed to avoid buildup on the fabric.

What are the top-rated laundry detergents for cloth diapers?

When it comes to washing cloth diapers, it's important to choose a laundry detergent that is safe for both your baby and the environment. There are several top-rated laundry detergents for cloth diapers that are widely recommended by parents and cloth diapering experts. One of the most popular options is Tide Free and Gentle, which is a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin. Another great option is Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent, which is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances. Other highly recommended detergents for cloth diapers include Rockin' Green Classic Rock, Charlie's Soap, and Ecover Zero. It's important to note that when washing cloth diapers, it's best to avoid detergents that contain fabric softeners, optical brighteners, and other additives that can cause buildup and reduce absorbency. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's washing instructions for your specific brand of cloth diapers to ensure they remain effective and long-lasting.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts