Which detergent for newborn clothes? Choosing and washing baby clothes every day
Quick answer: no single product suits every baby. Choose a mother-and-baby line with a very soft scent, clear instructions and full manufacturer details, and try a small bottle first. How you wash matters just as much: wash separately, rinse well, dry completely.
What’s different about newborn clothes?
- Washed very often: burp cloths, bibs and cloth nappies may need washing several times a day.
- Stains are mostly milk, saliva and waste, which need thorough cleaning and rinsing.
- Worn next to the body, hugged and nuzzled, so the scent should be soft.
What to check on the label
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| “Mother and baby” or “children’s clothes” | These lines usually have a lighter scent and dosing for small loads |
| Ingredients for milk stains | Enzymes help break down protein stains such as milk. See: What are enzymes in detergent? |
| Scent | Choose a soft one and try a small bottle before a large can |
| Dosing instructions | The right dose rinses out more easily |
| Manufacturer, expiry date | Buy from official stores |
Washing newborn clothes every day
- Wash new clothes before your baby wears them. See: How to wash newborn clothes before first wear
- Wash separately from adult clothes, especially workwear and muddy clothes.
- Treat milk stains early: rinse in cold water, apply a little detergent, wait a few minutes, then wash. See: Removing milk and puree stains
- Use a moderate amount of detergent for small loads.
- Rinse well: add an extra rinse if machine washing.
- Dry in an airy spot with gentle sun, and store only when fully dry.
Do you need separate fabric softener?
For newborn clothes, many parents skip separate fabric softener and use a mother-and-baby 2-in-1 detergent. See: Should you use fabric softener on newborn clothes?
When to ask a doctor
If your baby’s skin shows anything unusual after wearing freshly washed clothes, stop using the product and ask a doctor.
Abby Relax Days for newborn clothes
Abby is Komlife’s Mother & Baby 5-in-1 laundry liquid with enzymes, washing and softening in one go. The Relax Days scent is light and airy, suited to newborn clothes. Abby comes in a 100ml trial bottle so you can try the scent before buying the 1.1L or 3L can.
How to use: dose to suit the amount of laundry and how soiled it is; suitable for hand and machine washing. Read the pack instructions and keep out of reach of children.
Read next: Which laundry detergent is right for your baby? 5 things to check on the label
Reviewed by: Vu Hoang Nam
← More home care guides
