Product Review: Dreft Laundry Detergent

I received all kinds of goodies and gifts at the baby shower my sister threw for me. It was my first child so other people's advice and suggestions were so helpful. I had no idea you were supposed to wash your new baby's clothing in a special detergent made for their sensitive skin. Luckily my grandmother came to visit a few weeks before I delivered and bought some last minute things I needed. She bought me a large container of Dreft detergent and here is my review of the product.

The container the detergent comes in boasts that it is the #1 choice of pediatricians. I checked with two different pediatricians in my area and both of them suggested this. They said that other detergents made with scents and other additives could be very irritating on a baby's skin.

You can find Dreft in any large store including Target and Walmart. Most of my local grocery stores also carry them. They make it in both liquid and powder forms. I prefer to buy mine from diapers.com. The carry a large 300 ounce liquid container that can wash 96 loads of laundry for $30.99. Plus, if I order $50 worth of products from the website then shipping is free.

I wash everything my daughter uses in Dreft. This includes all of her clothing, blankets, towels, car seat cover, everything that will touch her skin. When I get the laundry out of the dryer it is very soft. Softer than my clothing is when washing in regular detergent. It leaves a crisp smell to it but not strong or overpowering.

I washed my daughter's clothes in regular detergent and it did not cause any rashes or other skin irritations when she wore them. I still prefer to use the Dreft as the ingredients are less harsh and it makes her clothes much softer. It is worth the extra money to use if for her but I don't feel it is a necessity.

The only thing I do not like about this detergent is for getting stains out. When my daughter has an accident and her diaper spills over I have found that pre-treating with Dreft does not get the stain out. I prefer to use a product specifically made for stain treatment such as spray and wash.

I do recommend Dreft if you feel you need to wash your children's clothing in a detergent specifically made for the little ones. It is very helpful for those with sensitive skin. However, if your child does not have sensitive skin and you need to save the money I don't think it's a necessary product for every mom.