We all have our own methods and staple products when it comes to doing the laundry, but how do you know that what you’re using is what’s best for your wash? What products you use or when to use them can be determined by things like the sensitivity of your skin and what items you’re washing. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best detergents and softeners for your laundry.
Usually, products best for sensitive skin will advertise that on the packaging, but how do you know if what you’re using is best for your skin, and what makes it so?
Most commonly, non-biological laundry detergents are the ones marketed towards those with sensitive skin. Non-bio means that it lacks the biological enzymes found in other detergents. The enzymes found in biological detergents are good for breaking down tough stains and dirt on your clothes. Non-bio detergent will still clean well but is gentler, thus less likely to irritate your skin.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to use non-bio detergent, but you may need to wash your clothes at a higher temperature to ensure they’re being cleaned thoroughly.
We’re all guilty of reaching for the fabric softener for every wash, mainly because we enjoy the fresh scent it gives our clothes, but not all items benefit from being washed with fabric conditioner.
Fabric softener works by coating the fibres, which makes them more flexible and less wrinkly and static. However, items like towels or athletic wear aren’t benefitting from this. The coating on the fibres of your towels makes them less absorbent. Have you noticed your towels are feeling crispy and aren’t as effective now? It may be due to your fabric conditioner.
Athleisure clothing is usually made to be breathable and moisture-wicking, which is hindered by the coating the fabric conditioner gives it. So, if you want to save your favourite gym leggings, ditch the softener.
For items like these, we suggest using white vinegar in your wash. It will effectively remove any odours and restore life back to your towels. If you still want that intense scent given by fabric conditioner, we suggest using a laundry cleanser or scent boosters in your wash.
Sometimes it can be hard to know if the products you’re using are the best for the job, so we hope this guide has helped. If you’re still not sure, check out our Guide to Doing Laundry.
