How to Test Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent Before Use?

Analyzing the Characteristics of Hypoallergenic Detergents  

Hypoallergenic laundry detergent is created to reduce the ability to irritate more sensitive skin. A typical hypoallergenic laundry detergent is devoid of strong detergent ingredients and instead has more natural active ingredients and is more eco-friendly. Detergent ingredients ranges from biodegradable surfactants to active ingredients to naturals and many of the eco-friendly active ingredients do not leave harmful sterilization by-products. Many of the trusted brands these days have such features. Detergents such as these do not just need to clean the laundry effectively, but need to be gentle as well. This is the reason why hypoallergenic pre-testing is so highly recommended.

Skin Patch Testing

Skin patch testing provides the quickest way to check for allergic reactions. Apply a small sample of the diluted detergent to the inner forearm or behind the ear. These areas have very thin, sensitive skin. Rub it in gently and let it air dry, then leave it for 24-48 hours. Check the area periodically for signs of redness, itching, swelling, or rash. If you do not observe any reactions, the detergent is most likely fine to use on your skin. This test prevents the risk of a larger full body irritation from using a detergent that is not compatible with your skin on all your laundry.

Test Detergent on Small Fabric Test Swatch

Carefully check your fabric by applying the new detergent on a small section. It only needs a drop. Test small areas on the inside seam of clothes or the corners of towels. Give the detergent a rub/massage of about 10-15 seconds and let it sit. Rinse the fabric, and look for any changes. The detergent shouldn't leave any sticky or thick residue. Also, the fabric's look and feel shouldn't change. The detergent should rinse out thoroughly and it shouldn't change the color or feel of the fabric. This is a good exercise to ensure the new detergent is good for your clothes and is a good exercise for your old detergent.

Make Sure There's No Residue Left After You Rinse Detergent From Your Clothes

Laundry detergents can leave a residue on clothing which can cause skin irritations over time. You can wash a small load of basic materials like towels and see if the detergents build up as you wash more and more clothes. After washing and extra rinsing, check to see if the fabric feels soft. If the fabric feels a little flimsy and has a greasy, stiff, or sticky feel to it, you may be using a little too much detergent, and it may be time to adjust the dosage or choose another formula. 

How Well Does the Detergent Clean Clothes

Hypoallergenic does not equal no power to clean. Take a dirty fabric and see if the hypoallergenic detergent has any power to clean. Once finished washing the fabric, check to see if it lifted the stain. A hypoallergenic detergent should get the fabric clean, as well as be free of skin irritants.

Think About the Environment and Safety  

Remember to balance the environmental and safety aspects when assessing the skin compatibility of the detergent. Check the product if it is eco-friendly and has biodegradable formulas, it is better for the environment. Check if the detergent is safe for baby clothes, as well as other delicate items, and if it is a multipurpose detergent check if it is safe for fruits or vegetables. These things contribute towards the value of the detergent and makes the pre-usage tests more complete and in line with commercial and environmental sustainability.