Free and clear detergents skip the dyes and perfumes, which makes them a good fit for sensitive skin, babies, and anyone who just doesn’t want their clothes to smell like a laundry aisle. The tradeoff used to be cleaning power. That’s much less true now.

What to look for

Enzymes do most of the heavy lifting on everyday stains like food, sweat, and grass. A good free and clear formula still includes them. Look for a label that says free of dyes and perfumes, not just unscented, since unscented products can contain masking fragrances. A dermatologist-tested or sensitive skin seal is a helpful extra.

The ones we reach for

Tide Free & Clear is a reliable all-rounder with strong stain removal. Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin handles heavier loads well. All Free Clear is an easy, budget-friendly option for everyday washing. For delicates and wool, pair any of these with a gentle wash made for those fibers.

Use less than you think

Too much detergent leaves residue that can irritate skin and dull fabrics. Follow the lines on the cap for your load size, and use a little less if you have soft water or a high-efficiency machine. Clean clothes should smell like nothing at all.