Oh, I definetly always washed the new baby clothing and blankest, etc. I think any detergent will work, as long as its not too strong. There are more and more detergents going to a clean and clear formula. I myself always prefered Dreft. But it can be a little pricey. I always used it for the first year, but I think it would be okay once you know how your baby will react to your clothing against his/her skin. And also, clothing is made better these days, they don't stretch out of place as they use to. I guess I also think that you never know who touched the stuff when it was hanging on the racks at the store too. Just a few of my thoughts on washing baby clothes. Hope it helps with whatever you decide.