Laundry detergent with or without enzymes - what to choose?

When it comes to choosing a detergent, especially for baby clothes or for people with sensitive skin, one of the most common questions is Should we use a detergent with enzymes or without ? To make the right decision, we first need to understand what enzymes in laundry detergents are , how they work, and what their pros and cons are.

 

What are enzymes in laundry detergents?

Enzymes are natural proteins that enhance chemical reactions . In the context of laundry detergents, their job is to break down various types of soiling, such as blood stains, grease, and and other organic substances.

The most commonly used enzymes in laundry detergents include:

  • Proteases – break down proteins (e.g. food stains, blood, sweat).
  • Lipases – break down fats and oils.
  • Amylases – break down starch and carbohydrates.
  • Cellulases – help clean cotton fabrics and keep colors fresh.
  • Mannanase – helps break down dairy stains.

When you wash clothes with a detergent containing enzymes, these substances actively "eat away" at the dirt, breaking it down to a microscopic level, making it easier to remove even at lower washing temperatures.

 

Pros of laundry detergents with enzymes

  1. More effective stain removal
    Enzymes can break down even the most stubborn stains such as chocolate, grass, milk, blood or grease.
  2. Washing at lower temperatures
    Thanks to enzymes, clothes can be washed effectively even at 30–40°C, which saves energy and is gentle on fabrics.
  3. Less need for harsh chemicals
    Enzymes allow the use of milder formulas without sacrificing cleaning power.
  4. Suitable for heavy soiling
    For households with young children, active athletes or pets, enzyme preparations are often the preferred choice.
    choice.

 

Cons and potential risks of using enzyme preparations

Despite their many advantages, enzyme preparations also have some disadvantages, especially in specific cases:

  1. Risk of skin irritation and allergies
    Some people , especially babies and people with sensitive skin, may experience reactions to enzyme residues in the tissues . This can manifest as itching, redness, or rashes.
  2. Increased tissue sensitivity
    Enzymes, especially cellulases over time, they corrode the fibers of natural fabrics such as cotton , linen, silk  and wool if the detergent is not well balanced.
  3. Not suitable for all types of laundry
    If you are mainly washing clothes without heavy stains (for example, baby clothes that are not very dirty), a detergent with enzymes may be "too strong" and unnecessarily burden the clothes and skin.
  4. Higher price
    Enzyme preparations are sometimes more expensive than standard products without them, due to the more complex production process.

 

When should we choose a detergent without enzymes?

Enzyme-free laundry detergents are an excellent choice when:

  • Are you wearing baby clothes or clothes? for people with sensitive or atopic skin.
  • You don't need strong treatment for stubborn stains.
  • You want to minimize the risk of skin reactions.
  • You are looking for a gentler formula for delicate fabrics like silk, wool or organic cotton.

Enzyme-free cleaners are often based on less aggressive cleaning agents and are offered by eco-brands that rely on plant-based ingredients and biodegradable formulas.

 

Which is more suitable for baby clothes?

Most pediatricians and dermatologists recommend enzyme-free laundry detergent for newborns and young children, especially in the first months of their lives. Baby skin is up to 5 times thinner than that of an adult and has a weaker barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritation.

Products like  Bluezy laundry sheets are co . Baby are free of aggressive enzymes and are an excellent choice for ensuring cleanliness and maximum care for the skin of the little ones.

 

Conclusion

The choice between a detergent with enzymes and one without enzymes depends mostly on your needs:

  • For stubborn stains and washing sportswear or heavily soiled clothes, a detergent with enzymes is the better choice.
  • For baby clothes, delicate fabrics, or sensitive skin, it is better to opt for a detergent without enzymes, with natural and gentle ingredients.

Whatever you choose, always read the labels and aim for products that are dermatologically tested and specifically formulated for your needs. Because the best care is in the small, informed choices we make every day.

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