Laundry & Clothing Comfort (Adults)
Unscented care and seam‑light clothing to reduce tactile and smell triggers. Keep wash day simple, skin‑friendly, and predictable.
Evidence‑informed
Updated: Oct 19, 2025
Top fixes (pick one per area)
Unscented care
Switch to Free & Clear detergent; skip scent boosters; add extra rinse for new clothes.
Seam‑light clothing
Choose tagless/base layers; remove labels with a seam ripper and seal edges to prevent itch.
Soft dry
Use low heat with wool dryer balls; avoid coated dryer sheets if scents are a trigger.
Laundry & clothing comfort — calm routine checklist
Safety & shared‑space notes
Skin sensitivities: patch‑test new detergents on a towel first. Enzymes: helpful for stains but can bother some; try enzyme‑free if needed. Vinegar: check your washer manual before using in the rinse.
- Fragrance transfer: wash sensory‑friendly loads separately from fragranced items to avoid scent carryover.
- Roommates: align on “no scent boosters” and shared dryer sheet rules.
More ideas & cheap swaps
- Label covers: if removal risks holes, cover small labels with a soft woven patch sewn on 4 edges.
- Fray control: dab fabric fray‑preventer on cut tag edges; let dry before wearing.
- Fabric feel: look for combed cotton, modal, or bamboo blends; avoid stiff metallic threads.
- Predictability: keep the same wash settings each time; save them as a favorite if your machine allows.