When you're caring for a baby, it’s important to use products that are specifically designed for sensitive, newborn skin. Regular skincare goods can contain chemicals that are overly harsh, and as a result, they can cause irritation and dryness. The same goes for laundry detergent. Only detergent that's formulated specifically for babies is gentle enough to use on their clothes since it’s made without harmful fragrances and dyes. While safety is obviously paramount, you also want a detergent that's strong enough to get out the toughest of stains; after all, babies are the messiest of all. The options in our roundup check both of those boxes better than any others we've tried, so have a look and see what tickles your fancy. Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Hypoallergenic Liquid Baby Laundry Detergent There's a New Baby in TownFormulated with hypoallergenic ingredients, the Dreft Stage 1 is specially made for newborn babies.Best OverallFind on Amazon Billed as the #1 pediatrician-recommended detergent for babies, the Dreft Stage 1 is ideal for newborns whose skin is too sensitive for anything else. The hypoallergenic formula is tough on stains, but not so much that washed clothes leave your baby’s skin feeling irritated. And it works on a range of fabrics, from bedding and blankets to sheets and towels. Pros: Works in standard and high-efficiency washing machines Also available in “Active Baby” formula Cons: Has a strong odor Seventh Generation Baby Concentrated Laundry Detergent No Messing AroundWhether it’s a stained shirt or dirty diaper, this baby detergent from Seventh Generation is more effective than most formulas at cleaning up the mess. Deepest CleanFind on Amazon Seventh Generation is known for its trusted line of natural detergents, so it’s no surprise that its baby-safe formula is one of the best options out there. Thanks to its triple-enzyme formulation, this detergent provides a thorough cleaning of even the deepest and smelliest of stains, which is amazing when you consider it includes 97% percent plant-based ingredients. It’s even strong enough to work on dirty diapers. Water-saving concentrated formula USDA-certified Biobased product Gentle scent won’t overwhelm you or your baby Cons: Not great for super sensitive skin Purex Baby Soft Liquid Laundry Detergent All in This TogetherRather than dishing out cash on a new detergent just for Baby, this is a cost-effective option that'll work great for everyone in the family.Best ValueFind on Amazon If you’d rather not buy separate detergents for your newborn and the rest of the family, try Purex’s Baby Soft liquid laundry detergent. Touting a gentle formulation with a subtle, non-offensive fragrance, this is an excellent choice for your baby’s sensitive skin, and it’ll work just fine on the rest of your family’s too. With the two included bottles, the company estimates that you can get about 220 loads of laundry done. Best of all, it’s about as affordable as they come, so if you’re looking for the perfect frugal detergent purchase, this is your bet. Pros: Hypoallergenic and free of potentially harmful dyes Rather than having to buy two separate detergents (one for baby, one for the rest of the family), you can save money by using this for everyone Cons: The scent is a bit strong, so if your baby is sensitive to fragrance, this isn’t the one for you Babyganics 3X Baby Laundry Detergent Easy Does ItScented with a hint of lavender, this baby detergent isn't just gentle, but it smells divine, too.Best FragranceFind on Amazon If you’re the kind of person whose favorite part about doing the laundry is the lovely scent that the clothes pick up in the wash, you need this baby detergent from Babyganics. It’s one of the only formulas that’s designed for sensitive skin but also still carries a bit of gentle fragrance. As a result, your baby’s clothes will come out smelling lavender-fresh. And for those who prefer a fragrance-free option, don’t fret: it’s available in that version, too. Pros: Dermatologist-tested No sulfates Cons: Fairly expensive option Frequently Asked Questions Why do I need baby detergent? Conventional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to newborn skin. Baby detergents are specifically formulated to contain only natural, non-irritating ingredients, keeping your child happy. What should I look for in a baby detergent? The great thing about baby detergents is, unlike conventional detergents, they contain a limited list of mostly natural, plant-based ingredients. That makes it easy for you to check whether a detergent is right for your baby’s particular needs. In general, look for detergents that are labeled hypoallergenic, as those are the least likely to cause reactions with sensitive skin. Related posts: The Best Puppy Shampoos The Best Doggie Washes The Best Puppy Diapers