Confused about detergents, reading conflicting info

Artsywife07

I just received my first order of CDs, so now I'm researching how to prep and wash them.  I'm looking for a detergent that I can buy in the regular grocery store but I keep reading conflicting info about which ones are ok.  On the Pinstripes and Polkadots detergent chart, it says Publix (local grocery chain) Free & Clear is a good one, but Jillian's Drawers says that free & clear detergents are bad.  Then I read that Tide original is ok but I've also heard that it's not.  Any insight?

aschleser

This is a chart that is often thrown around on the CD board - detergent chart

 FYI - I just bought ECOS - not the free and clear, but still got 3 stars (the magnolia scent) at Walmart for 9.99.  I live in a tiny, redneck town in Va, so if they've got it there, you've got a chance in Atlanta!!! Target may be a good one, too.

julygal

I used Publix Free and Clear for 2 years per pinstripes and polkadots.  It was OK.  It did the job.  I did have some minor stink issues come up from time to time.  However, it was always easy to remedy.  I would recommend it as worth a try.  I did ultimately change detergents, because while I felt Publix was working, I thought something else might be better.  I now use RnG, and I so far it seems to be working really well.

StephanieDM

The reason F&C detergents are not recommended is because most of them contained optical brighteners which can break down the PUL and cause leaking issues in the long run. Many people use F&C and have no issues, but you wouldn't necessarily know its causing issues until you've been using it for a while and the damage is already done. 

I know some mamas here have had build up/ stink issues with F&C detergents, while some haven't had any. Personally, I'd only use something I knew for sure was CD safe. My CDs are an investment and if it means spending a little extra money on detergent to keep them in good working condition for years then its money well spent. 

Some mamas use Tide Original (powder) with no issues but it has enzymes, brighteners, and scents. Again, its not worth the risk to me. Also my LO has sensitive skin so it would irritate her anyway.

Why can't you order a CD-safe detergent online? We use Rockin Green and I highly recommend it. If you order 2 bags from Mom's Milk Boutique, then there is no shipping charge.  

monona9

I agree with PP, we order online. I would even suggest buying more than one at a time if you rather it ship together. I've used samples of rockin' green with no problems, but when DD was born I ordered 2 boxes of country save powder and we are still on the first box.

You use such a small amount of CD safe detergent on diaper laundry it really does last. So if that order of 2 boxes last me a year then it was def worth it to me