Baby Eczema & Sensitive Skin: Clothing Choices + Laundry Routine That Actually Helps

Feb 13
3 min read

If your baby has eczema or super sensitive skin, you already know the “trial and error” is real. The good news: you don’t need a million products — you need a simple, consistent routine and the right fabrics touching their skin.

This guide is informational (not medical advice), but it’s packed with practical steps you can try today.

Quick note (because it matters)

If your baby’s skin is cracked, weeping, infected, or they’re very uncomfortable, it’s best to speak to your GP/health visitor. This post focuses on everyday clothing + laundry habits that can help reduce irritation.

Why clothing and laundry can trigger flare-ups

Even when you’re using a great moisturiser, skin can still react to:

· Rough fibres and scratchy seams

· Overheating and sweat (a big eczema trigger)

· Fragrance, optical brighteners, and residue from detergent/softener

· “Hidden” irritants like fabric conditioner, dryer sheets, and heavily scented hand soaps

What to look for in baby clothes for eczema-prone skin

1) Choose soft, breathable fabrics

Best everyday picks:

· 100% cotton (especially soft jersey)

· Cotton-rich blends (if they feel smooth and breathable)

Be cautious with:

· Wool and some synthetics (can feel itchy or trap heat)

· Very fluffy fabrics that shed fibres

2) Prioritise comfort details (they add up)

When you’re shopping, check for:

· Soft seams (or flatter seams)

· Tagless/printed labels or easy-to-remove tags

· Gentle cuffs (not tight around wrists/ankles)

· Roomy fit (tight clothing can rub and trap sweat)

3) Layer smart to avoid overheating

Overheating can trigger itching fast. A simple layering approach:

· Start with one breathable base layer

· Add one light outer layer only if needed

· If your baby feels warm at the back of the neck, remove a layer

The “eczema-friendly” laundry routine (simple and consistent)

Step 1: Use a fragrance-free detergent

Look for a detergent that is:

· Non-bio / gentle

· Fragrance-free (or truly minimal fragrance)

Tip: if you’re switching detergents, give it 1–2 weeks before judging results.

Step 2: Skip fabric conditioner and dryer sheets

This is a big one. Fabric softeners can leave a coating that irritates sensitive skin.

Instead:

· Use the right wash settings

· Add an extra rinse if your machine allows it

Step 3: Don’t overdose detergent

More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner — it often means more residue.

· Follow the dosage for soft water vs hard water - Check your area

· If clothes feel “soapy” after washing, reduce detergent and add an extra rinse

Step 4: Wash new clothes before first wear

New clothes can carry finishing chemicals from manufacturing.

· Wash once before wear

· For very sensitive babies, consider two washes for new items

Step 5: Choose the right wash temperature

· Everyday cotton basics: 30–40°C is usually fine

· If you’re dealing with heavy soiling: go warmer if the care label allows, or hand wash before

placing in the machine.

Step 6: Dry gently

· Air-drying is great (less heat exposure)

· If tumble drying, avoid heavily scented dryer products

Bedding, blankets, and sleepwear: small tweaks that help

Because babies spend so many hours sleeping, this is a high-impact area.

· Choose breathable bedding (cotton sheets)

· Avoid overly warm layers that cause sweating

· Keep blankets soft and easy to wash (Having multiple always helps; 1 to use, 1 in the wash)

A simple “flare-up week” reset (7 days)

If you’re not sure what’s triggering irritation, try this short reset:

1. Switch to fragrance-free detergent

2. Remove fabric conditioner + dryer sheets

3. Wash all everyday items (vests, sleepsuits, bedding)

4. Dress baby in soft cotton layers only

5. Keep nails short (less damage from scratching)

6. Note any patterns: heat, certain outfits, after bath time, etc.

Common questions:

Should I wash baby clothes separately?

If you can, it helps during flare-ups — mainly because it’s easier to control detergent amounts and avoid residue from adult laundry products.

Is “non-bio” always better?

Not always, but many families find it gentler. The bigger win is usually fragrance-free + no softener + correct dosing.

What about scratch mittens?

They can definitely help short-term, but other things you can try in addition:

· Keeping nails short

· Using sleepsuits with fold-over mitts

· Choosing breathable layers to reduce itching

Summary

Eczema can be stubborn, but the clothing + laundry side is one of the easiest places to make consistent improvements. Keep it simple, change one thing at a time, and give your routine a little time to show results.