Best Handwash & Delicates of 2026

Kiera Browne Avatar
Kiera Browne
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

When it comes to keeping our clothes and linens clean, it's important to use products that are gentle yet effective. Handwash and delicates detergents are designed specifically for delicate fabrics and items that require extra care. These products are typically free of harsh chemicals and are formulated to protect colours and prevent shrinkage. Whether you're washing silk, lace, or cashmere, using a handwash or delicates detergent can help ensure that your items stay looking and feeling their best.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dettol Lemon Washing Machine Cleaner, 6-Pack Cover #TOP 1
Dettol Lemon Washing Machine Cleaner, 6-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Eucalan Concentrated Lanolin Laundry Detergent 500ml Cover #TOP 2
Eucalan Concentrated Lanolin Laundry Detergent 500ml
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Eucalan Jasmine Fabric Wash 16.9oz Cover #TOP 3
Eucalan Jasmine Fabric Wash 16.9oz
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 7 Handwash & Delicates

#TOP 1

Dettol Lemon Washing Machine Cleaner, 6-Pack

3165218
Dettol Lemon Washing Machine Cleaner, 6-Pack Cover
Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner, Lemon, Multipack of 6 X 250ml, Total of 1.5L, Wasing Machine Limescale Remover, Washing Machine Descaler, Antibacterial, Disinfectant, Laundry

The Dettol Washing Machine Cleaner offers 5-in-1 protection against bacteria, odours, limescale, dirt, and enhances freshness. By killing 99.9% of bacteria, it ensures a hygienic wash for your laundry. The cleaner also acts as a descaler, effectively removing limescale to improve your machine's performance. It reaches hidden areas, eliminating bad odours and leaving a long-lasting freshness. For optimal results, simply use it every two months in an empty machine.

What We Like
Kills 99.9% of bacteria
Removes limescale effectively
Eliminates bad odours
Enhances machine performance
Easy to use
#TOP 2

Eucalan Concentrated Lanolin Laundry Detergent 500ml

50062
500 ml (Pack of 1)
Eucalan Concentrated Lanolin Laundry Detergent 500ml Cover
Eucalan - Concentrated Laundry enriched with lanolin - Ecological, Delicate, Suitable for Wool, Crocheted and Knitted - Not Scented 1x 500 ml

Eucalan Lanolin Laundry is ideal for caring for your crochet and knitted items, helping to maintain their delicate fibres. It is environmentally friendly, free from resin and synthetic ingredients, so you can feel confident using it without harming the planet. This detergent gently refreshes your delicate laundry, including your handmade creations, stuffed animals, or baby clothes, keeping them clean and soft. Plus, it is unscented, making it perfect for sensitive skin or those who prefer no fragrance in their laundry products.

What We Like
Suitable for delicate fabrics
Environmentally friendly formula
Gently refreshes laundry
Unscented for sensitive skin
#TOP 3

Eucalan Jasmine Fabric Wash 16.9oz

81096
Jasmine
500 ml (Pack of 1)
Eucalan Jasmine Fabric Wash 16.9oz Cover
Eucalan Fabric Wash, Jasmine, 16.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

The Eucalan Fabric Wash is ideal for both handwashing and machine use, giving you flexibility when caring for your delicate clothes. It is non-toxic, ensuring it is safe for your skin and the environment. Made in Canada, this product upholds quality standards you can trust. As a concentrated formula, it provides effective cleaning with less product, saving you money and storage space. The Eucalan Fabric Wash is a convenient choice for keeping your fabrics fresh and well cared for.

What We Like
Suitable for hand and machine wash
Non-toxic and safe
Made in Canada quality
Concentrated formula
#TOP 4

Granny's Fragrance Free Soap Flakes 425g

Granny's
SW1017
Natural
425 g (Pack of 1)
Granny's Fragrance Free Soap Flakes 425g Cover
Granny's Natural Fragrance Free Soap Flakes, Vegan Friendly

Granny's Soap Flakes are a gentle yet effective cleaning solution, perfect for those with sensitive skin. These vegan-friendly, fragrance-free flakes are made without bleach or allergens, making them ideal for delicate fabrics like wool and silk. You can confidently use them for handwashing or in your washing machine, ensuring your laundry remains fresh and clean. Additionally, they are excellent for general home cleaning, suitable for various surfaces, including wood and marble, providing a versatile and safe cleaning option for your home.

What We Like
Gentle on skin and fabrics
Ideal for delicate materials
Vegan-friendly formulation
Versatile cleaning for home
#TOP 5

Ecover Hand Wash Refill with Citrus Scent

transparent
950 ml (Pack of 1)
Ecover Hand Wash Refill with Citrus Scent Cover
Ecover Hand Wash Refill, Hand Soap, Gentle Hand Cleansing, Fresh Citrus & Orange Blossom Scent, Pack of 1, 1 x 950ml

The Ecover Hand Wash Refill offers a gentle cleansing experience, perfect for keeping your hands happy and healthy. Its dermatologically tested formula is pH-neutral, ensuring your hands remain soft and silky without any overwhelming fragrance. The delightful Citrus and Orange Blossom scent adds a refreshing touch to your handwashing routine. Made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, this refill is an eco-friendly choice that aligns with your values while providing effective hand hygiene.

What We Like
Dermatologically tested formula
Subtle and refreshing fragrance
Eco-friendly biodegradable ingredients
Convenient refill packaging
Pioneering brand since 1979
#TOP 6

Method Hand Wash Refill with French Lavender

4005465
Violet
0.5 ml (Pack of 2)
Method Hand Wash Refill with French Lavender Cover
Method Hand Wash Refill, French Lavender, 2x 1L (Pack of 2)

The Method Hand Wash Refill offers a caring formulation that leaves your hands beautifully soft while effectively removing dirt and germs. By washing your hands thoroughly for at least 30 seconds, you can significantly reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses in your home, promoting a healthier living environment. Enjoy a burst of refreshing fragrance with its rich, creamy lather, transforming your hand wash routine. With non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients, this hand wash delivers a powerful clean without harming the planet.

What We Like
Softens hands effectively
Reduces bacteria spread
Refreshing fragrance
Non-toxic ingredients
#TOP 7

Soak Laundry Soap – No Rinse, Plant Derived

71592
Multicoloured
375 ml (Pack of 1)
Soak Laundry Soap – No Rinse, Plant Derived Cover
Soak Laundry Soap – No Rinse, Plant Derived Hand Wash Detergent - 375 ml / 12 fl. oz, 75+ Washes (Fig)

Soak Laundry Soap offers a convenient no-rinse formula, perfect for washing delicate items by hand. Originating from Canada, this plant-derived detergent allows you to care for your favourite garments without the hassle of traditional washing methods. With a bottle size of 375 ml, you can expect over 75 washes, making it a cost-effective choice. Its compact packaging, measuring 8.35 cm in length and width, fits easily in your laundry space, ensuring you always have it on hand for those delicate washes.

What We Like
No rinse needed
Plant-derived ingredients
Over 75 washes
Compact packaging
Ideal for delicates
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is hand wash and delicate the same?

A delicate wash cycle (or “delicates”) is the washing machine equivalent to handwashing. The difference between hand wash vs delicate cycle is that this setting uses cold water with low agitation or slow spin and is the shortest and most gentle cleaning cycle.

2. Can handwash items be washed on delicate?

Always wash hand wash garments in cold water or on a delicate cycle. Cold water is less likely to shrink your clothing or alter the colors. The delicate cycle offers less agitation, even in machines with a central agitator.

3. What is handwash on washer?

Hand washing involves manually removing soils with water, detergent, and a gentle squeezing action. A care label that calls for machine washing in a delicate or gentle cycle indicates soils in the garment can be removed with water, detergent or soap, slow agitation, and reduced time in a washing machine.

Editor's Notes

During our handwash & delicate research, we found 162 handwash & delicate products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 45,155 customer reviews through our big data system to write the handwash & delicates list. We found that most customers choose handwash & delicates with an average price of £15.43.

The handwash & delicates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of handwash & delicates, including Dettol, Eucalan, Granny's, Ecover, Method.

Written by
Kiera Browne Avatar

Kiera Browne served as chef and caterer in Purslane Restaurant for three years before establishing her restaurant. Kiera now owns two restaurants and a culinary school all over the United Kingdom. Kiera has featured in magazines and editorials, providing recipes for various dishes. Using her skills and knowledge in the culinary field, Kiera has published few pamphlets on preparing various cuisines.