I need a new detergent.

[Biscuits & Gravy]

I've been using Charlies, and it was working. Or so I thought. Now I realize that it isn't, and I need something that will. I started using Charlies because DS is super sensitive and has eczema. Within days of using it his skin cleared up. Before that I was using purex free & clear. But then a few days ago his diaper area was all red and irritated, and when I changed him I could smell the ammonia. It wasn't like I'd left him in a diaper forever or something. I've bleached the inserts every few weeks for a few months now, but I don't think they are getting clean.

So, long story short, I need a new detergent that is good for CDs and will be okay for his skin. I'm sensitive to fragrance and stuff as well. I asked for advice elsewhere and was told to use good old fashioned Tide. When I went to buy some today I was overwhelmed by the scent, so I picked up the dye/fragrance free version.

I'm reading info online about Tide and getting mixed information. I'm confused. Is it okay or not? Any other recommendations?

[Juliacat]

Unfortunately, the reason there are mixed reviews about Tide is that there are mixed results with Tide. It works the best out of everything for some people, and doesn't work at all for others.

[Lynda&Jenna]

Tiny Bubbles is made for cloth diapers and for sensitive skin. Also cotton babies has a detergent out now for cloth diaper.
Lynda

[ibusymomto5]

Unfortunately, you just have to trial and error sometimes. Personally, I've had great results with Tide and several others as well. I really think a lot of it depends on your particular water, routine, and of course your baby's skin.

[e_roehm23]

Have you considered making your own? I recently made my own laundry soap for ds dipes. It is going good. There are several recipes for both powdered and liquid, but for your sensitive skin you might try the liquid form using Dr. Bronner's Baby. Personally, I use the powdered w/ fels naptha, but that might be a little harsh. Other soap options are Ivory, or even better, Kirk's Castile which is hypoallergenic. Good Luck

[Altair]

I switched form charlies too, tried PFC, then threw in the towel and use tide regular. Works great. I still bleach once a month, but my dipes are clean and don't reek anymore. I do one long hot wash with tide, then one hot wash with nothing. Easy!

[Juliacat]

My hypothesis is that Tide contains ingredients that do a great job of getting the diapers clean, but that also irritate some people's skin and are less gentle on the diapers.

[RGsMom]

Have you thought about trying soap nuts? They are usually great for people with sensitive skin, no scents, no nothing - 100% natural! The only down would be the slim chance that your son has a sensitivity to the particular tree.

But yes, the Tiny Bubbles and bumGenius Detergents are also great! I've heard good things about Allens too and of course many others.

[MadiMamacita]

we've been using arm and hammer powder free and clear.

[momoftworedheads]

Originally Posted by Biscuits & Gravy

I've been using Charlies, and it was working. Or so I thought. Now I realize that it isn't, and I need something that will. I started using Charlies because DS is super sensitive and has eczema. Within days of using it his skin cleared up. Before that I was using purex free & clear. But then a few days ago his diaper area was all red and irritated, and when I changed him I could smell the ammonia. It wasn't like I'd left him in a diaper forever or something. I've bleached the inserts every few weeks for a few months now, but I don't think they are getting clean.

So, long story short, I need a new detergent that is good for CDs and will be okay for his skin. I'm sensitive to fragrance and stuff as well. I asked for advice elsewhere and was told to use good old fashioned Tide. When I went to buy some today I was overwhelmed by the scent, so I picked up the dye/fragrance free version.

I'm reading info online about Tide and getting mixed information. I'm confused. Is it okay or not? Any other recommendations?

CRUNCHY CLEAN! It is awesome! I just bought it the other day and used it for a load of diapers and then for a load of my son's clothes. The diapers came out really clean, smell good (not overpowering, just clean) and feel so soft! I bought 2 sample packages and I still have a lot in the first one. I'll be buying this from now on!

Good luck to you! I used to use Charlies and had the same problems you describe with the ammonia smell.

Take care,

[Lynda&Jenna]

There is also Thirsties Pre-wash and Super Wash. It in new, removes bacteria and is for sensitive skin.
Lynda

[mamasthree]

I've always used Tide...I find that I cannot tolerate the scent of liquid detergent, but the powdered is much different.

[Stuckmama]

Be careful with Tide because it is a petroleum based product and therefore may leave petrochemicals and residue on the diapers that over time may reduce their absorption. I use Charlie's Soap and just add in some white vinegar and the occasional tablespoon of Borax. It works great for me, soft, fluffy diapers with no smell.

I would suggest using vinegar and borax with an extra rinse before spending lots of money on special detergents.