My son has eczema so I've been using a "free & clear" detergent for years. It has really made a difference for him. I also use a "free & clear" fabric softener and sometimes I use vinegar in the wash. I confess, though, that I wash everything in cold except for undies/socks, linens & towels. I'm not sure I'm going to change that. I do hang the majority of our clothes inside the house and then fluff them in the dryer to get rid of the crisp-ness. That, of course, doesn't provide the UV rays, though, that are supposedly necessary to kill the dust mites, etc. I live in Florida, though, and everything outside it typically covered in a yellow film from the pollen...can you imagine if I put my clothes on a line outside?!? YIKES!
@cypros: I hear what you are saying about creating fear, etc. and how germs are necessary. I agree with you. My son doesn't have a "severe immunity ailment" but his poor little skin gets so itchy when he is exposed to the fragrances, dust mites, etc. and one of the "remedies" is a topical steroid cream. Um...no! Not unless I absolutely have to! We use regular hand soap in our house...not the antibacterial kind. Have you noticed how hard it is to find that?! Everything is antibacterial these days! I'm starting to think a "superbug" is inevitable at this point.
