When washing your delicates, you’ll want to be mindful of the type of detergent you’re using. Some standard laundry detergents may be too harsh for certain fabrics, causing them to tear, fade, or shrink.

The best detergent for delicate laundry typically includes gentle ingredients and a pH that is close to neutral, in order to clean without damaging the fibers of the fabric.

Some detergents are designed to provide extra care for a specific fabric but there are also good all-purpose detergents designed to be extra-gentle if you don’t want to deal with purchasing multiple products. Just make sure to look for a detergent that is free of harsh synthetic chemicals such as sulfates, bleaches, and brighteners.

You’ll also want to choose whether to hand-wash or use the delicate cycle on your washing machine for your delicates. Whatever you choose, we’ve compiled some of the types of laundry detergents to use on your delicates!

1. Detergents that are PH balanced.

As previously mentioned, a good rule of thumb when washing delicates is to find a detergent that’s PH balanced. Dropps Laundry Detergent laundry detergent is a good option if you are looking for something strictly PH-based.

This detergent’s PH formula is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, made from plant-based products and essential oils. If you use this detergent or one with a similar PH formula, you’ll be doing wonders for the longevity of your clothes!

2. No-rinse detergents

If you’re washing your delicates by hand, no-rinse detergents may be a good idea. A nice and effective no-rinse detergent is called Soak. This is a great option because it requires very little effort, since you simply soak, squeeze, and dry flat.

The detergent can be used to hand-wash almost anything, as well as in your washing machine, whether it is standard or high-efficiency.

3. All-natural detergents.

All-natural detergents are great for delicate clothing, since they’re free of the harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the fabric.

A good all-natural option is Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent which you can buy in bulk. It is one of the purest detergents you could choose, since it is made with a plant enzyme-based formula that is 99.9% natural.

This detergent or a similar option is a great and effective way to clean and maintain the integrity of delicate clothes.

4. Delicate detergents meant for specific types of fabric.

If there is a specific type of delicate fabric that you are trying to wash, finding a detergent meant specifically for that fabric could be beneficial.

For example, The Laundress makes a detergent meant specifically for wool and cashmere. It protects the delicate fibers while also cleansing and conditioning in a concentrated formula.

If you are washing a specific fabric together all at once, then investing in one of these specific detergents may be a good idea.