Parents warned viral baby clothing hack could cause rashes and serious illness

An expert has warned against following a social media baby clothing hack – which could cause rashes, breathing problems and even seizures.

Social media has become a go-to resource for parenting tips and laundry hacks, but one expert is warning that some of the most popular tricks could put babies at risk, and has given advice on how to keep your infant safe when it comes to clothing.

Leanne Smith, a clothing expert from Trendy Tots Baby Boutique, warns that while many of these hacks promise to get rid of tough stains and leave you with fresher, softer clothes, the chemicals they recommend using could cause serious harm to infants.

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Leanne explains: "We’ve seen viral videos suggesting parents add scent boosters, fabric conditioners, products not meant for baby clothing and even bleach to their baby’s wash. While these hacks may work for adult laundry, they can be far too harsh for babies."

Parents may assume that supermarket products are safe to use across the board, but additives that can make clothes smell fresher or feel softer can have the opposite effect on delicate skin.

Leanne continues: "Baby's clothing can get in a right mess, some of them are so stained that you'd better putting them in the bin than trying to clean, but online we have seen people using products like elbow grease degreaser, which was in no way meant to be used on baby clothes."

This is because degreasers can contain non-ionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, phosphates, perfume, and limonene, all of which can be harmful for a baby.

Leanne says: “Non-ionic surfactants can cause severe dryness, rashes and eczema, along with vomiting and diarrhoea if your baby chews on their clothes. Cationic surfactants, if swallowed, can cause burning in the mouth, can make it difficult to breathe and can cause seizures and, in rare cases, death."

She adds: "Phosphates can cause abdominal pain, whereas perfume and limonene can cause allergic reactions and breathing difficulties."

So, what should parents do instead? Leanne urges those caring for little ones to avoid the viral hacks and keep to what you know is safe.

She advises parents to opt for gentle, non-bio detergents that are specifically designed for babies and to avoid fabric softeners altogether. According to Leanne, washing at 30 to 40 degrees is enough to keep baby clothes clean without damaging fibres or leaving chemical residues.

She adds: “[Social media] hacks might look clever, but they don’t come with health warnings. When it comes to washing your baby’s clothes, the safest option is always the simplest. A mild detergent, a careful wash and a thorough rinse are all you need to keep your baby’s clothing safe.”