What to Wash Baby Clothes in Australia

You’ve probably not thought too much about what you wash your clothes with. If the price is reasonable, it smells good, and your clothes come out of the machine looking clean, then no worries, right? You may simply use the same product that your family bought when you were growing up or one that’s readily available in your nearest supermarket. If you live in the outback, for example, you might not have as much choice as a city-dweller. How about when you’re expecting a baby, though – what’s the best detergent to wash baby clothes in? Australia has a range of manufacturers offering laundry products, so do you go for a standard supermarket own brand liquid, for example, or opt for a non-scented, plant-based, sensitive skin or vegan product?

Generally, both expectant and experienced Australian mums agree that new baby clothes should be washed before they’re worn.

Standard laundry products should be fine but as babies have more sensitive skin, it might be wise to choose something with little or no fragrance. If they have allergies or super sensitive skin, then you may need to select your product accordingly.

Before You Wash

Don’t load that washing machine just yet! Check the care labels first – the last thing you want to do is shrink that gorgeous little outfit that you’ve just splashed your hard-earned cash on – or the one that Grandma bought. Baby clothes – especially for newborns – are so tiny, so it’s a good idea to put the smallest items, like socks and scratch mitts, into a net laundry bag.

This will keep them from getting lost. It also keeps them all together, which will make post-wash sorting easier. Don’t forget to split whites and colours, just as you usually would. It’s perfectly fine to wash baby clothes with the usual household load unless you want to wash them separately or are using a different detergent.

What To Wash Baby Clothes In

If you want to use a product that’s suitable for sensitive skin, then many mums swear by the Omo Sensitive range. Why not check out the latest baby forums and see what other new Australian mums are saying? You can choose between laundry detergent sheet, liquid, powder or tablets – we’d recommend going for sheets and liquid formula just to ensure there are no remaining flakes that could irritate your baby’s delicate skin.

There’s no need to use a particular type of product unless you want to, or need to because your baby has an allergy. If a detergent causes any skin irritation, then it’s also a good idea to try a different brand until you find one that suits.

Washing Cloth Nappies

Cloth nappies require separate laundering. They can be rinsed straight after use in the toilet, before storing in a lidded bucket until wash day comes around. Washable or disposable liners can also be kept in the nappy bucket.

Before washing, nappies require an overnight soaking or a cold prewash. They can then be washed on a hot cycle, before drying on the line or by machine. A product like Vanish Napisan can be added to the wash if you like, to help keep them looking fresh.

Stain Removal

As with nappies, a stain removal formula can be added to the wash, or you can treat stains with a standard pre-wash stain removal product. If possible, treat stains as soon as possible to minimise the chance of them becoming permanent.

Once more, if you notice any skin irritation after using a new product, discontinue use and try another formula next time. A product for sensitive skin would be a wise choice at that point.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best detergent to wash baby clothes in?

The best detergent to wash your baby’s clothes in depends on your requirements, budget and preferences. If you have a favourite laundry detergent that you’ve used for years, then there may be no reason to switch to another one. If your baby’s skin does become inflamed or irritated, try a product that’s formulated for sensitive skin and ask a medical expert – such as your midwife – for advice. They’ve seen and heard to all before!

Should I wash brand new baby clothes?

Experts and mums alike agree that baby clothes should be washed before they’re worn. You don’t know who might have touched them before you bought them, or if some residue from the packaging could prove to be an irritant to soft new baby skin. If you’re at all concerned, then it may make sense to purchase a product that is designed for sensitive skin. Many first-time mums really enjoy washing the clothes for their baby before he or she is born. It builds a sense of anticipation around the birth and meeting their little one for the very first time, so it can be quite an emotional experience.

Should I wash baby clothes with my other laundry?

There’s no reason not to wash baby clothes alongside your own clothing and household linens. Cloth nappies, however, should be washed (and pre-washed, as described above) separately. You might also want to wash heavily stained items on their own, or perhaps put them in with the nappy wash. If you’re using a different detergent, such as because your baby has an allergy, then you may wish to wash their things separately.

Will I need anything else?

Again the answer to this depends on your needs and preferences. You may have always washed small items in net bags; if not it might be a good idea to buy some for washing those tiny baby socks and scratch mitts. If you’re using cloth nappies, then an in-wash stain treatment product might be a good idea. A spray-on, pre-wash stain remover can also be useful – cute as they are, abates are messy little humans! Whether or not you opt for a sensitive skin detergent is down to what you’re comfortable with, as well as how easily irritated your baby’s skin proves to be. That’s something you won’t find out until after they’re born!

We wish you the best of luck with all that laundry, as well as the roller-coaster of a journey that is parenthood!

Last update on 2026-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API