Everything You Need To Know Before Choosing Fabric Softener

What Is Fabric Softener?

Fabric softener is a type of laundry product used to make clothes and other fabrics feel softer, reduce static cling, and impart a pleasant fragrance. It is typically used during the final rinse cycle when washing clothes in a washing machine. Fabric softeners come in liquid, dryer sheets, or dryer ball forms, and they work by depositing a thin layer of chemicals or lubricants onto the surface of the fabric fibers.

What Does Fabric Softener Do?

Fabric softeners contain fatty acids that affect how your fabric feels. These "positively charged" fatty acids are naturally drawn to the "negatively charged" garments in your washing machine. By lubricating the fibers and neutralizing the charge, fabric softeners safeguard your laundry from damage and provide a softer touch.

As a result, your clothes have fewer wrinkles, less static, and a soft feel. Additionally, fabric softeners come with various scents, but if you prefer, you can find fragrance-free options as well.

Types Of Fabric Softener

Fabric softeners are available in various forms, namely liquid, sheets (also known as dryer sheets), and fibre balls (known as dryer balls). Despite their different manufacturing processes and appearances, they function in a similar manner. Below is a brief overview of the different types of fabric softeners:

1. Liquid Fabric Softener:
   Liquid fabric softener is the preferred choice in most households. It is usually added during the rinse cycle of the laundry. While the detergent is rinsed off, the fabric softener permeates the fibers and coats them. This type, also known as fabric conditioner, leaves clothes feeling soft and smelling pleasant. Additionally, liquid fabric softeners often contain a composition that prevents pilling and maintains the fabric's shape and color.
2. Dryer Sheets:
   Dryer sheets are the most common type of fabric softener. They consist of a thin, synthetic material infused with a special fabric softening solution. The heat of the dryer causes the composition to melt and evenly spread through the drying cycle. Similar to liquid fabric softeners, dryer sheets effectively soften fabrics and leave a pleasant fragrance.
3. Dryer Balls:
   Dryer balls serve a different purpose than the other two types of fabric softeners. Instead of softening fabrics, they focus on eliminating static cling. They come in natural and synthetic fiber options, both of which effectively reduce static. Additionally, plastic dryer balls are available, which help prevent fabrics from clumping together and keep clothes from becoming stiff.

How To Use Fabric Softener

Fabric softener should always be added to the rinse cycle and not the wash cycle. When uncertain, it's best to follow the instructions on the label. However, you can generally follow the steps below:

1. Load Your Washing Machine
   Put your laundry into the washing machine, being careful to avoid any fabrics that are not suitable for fabric softener. Fabrics like terry cloth, microfiber, moisture-wicking, flame-resistant, and UPF should be avoided.
2. Add Fabric Softener to the Dispenser
   Most washing machines have a designated dispenser for fabric softener that releases it at the appropriate time during the rinse cycle. If your machine doesn't have a dispenser, be sure to manually add the fabric softener during the rinse cycle. This is when it is most effective. Make sure to pour the softener into water pockets to prevent any potential staining, and avoid pouring it directly onto the fabrics. Another option is to use a fabric softener dispenser ball.
3. Transfer to Dryer
   After the washing cycle is complete, transfer your clothes to the dryer and dry them as usual. If you have already used fabric softener, there's no need to use a dryer sheet, and vice versa, as both serve a similar purpose.

Should You Use Fabric Softener On All Of Your Laundry?

Because fabric softeners work effectively with most natural fiber items, such as cotton bed sheets and clothes, there might be a temptation to include them or dryer sheets in every laundry load. However, it's important to note that some fabrics may not react well to these products. The lubricants present in fabric softeners are intended to coat fibers, but this can leave behind a film that adversely affects the safety and functionality of certain materials. For instance, fabrics like flame-resistant pajamas for children or microfiber towels and cloths may be compromised.

To ensure the best care for your children's clothes, particularly baby clothes, it is advisable to learn more about proper washing techniques. Always take the time to check the care label on your garments before using fabric softener to avoid potential issues.

How to choose fabric softener

While preferences might differ, there are some essential factors to consider when choosing a fabric softener:

1. Pleasant fragrance: Fabric softeners come in a wide array of scents, ranging from rose petal to rosemary. However, if you are sensitive to strong scents, you may want to go for an unscented variety.
2. Skin-friendly: It is crucial to select a fabric softener that won't cause skin irritations, rashes, or exacerbate conditions like eczema. If you have sensitive skin, opt for a hypoallergenic fabric softener.
3. Environmentally conscious: Not all fabric softeners are eco-friendly. To be kinder to the environment, look for options that are natural, reusable, or compostable. This way, you can use a fabric softener that aligns with your values and reduces your ecological footprint.

A Few Helpful Tips

Here are some important points to remember while selecting and using fabric softener:

• Experiment with various types, fragrances, and brands of fabric softeners to find the one that suits your household best.
• Always use the recommended amount of liquid fabric softener for each load. If you're unsure about the quantity, refer to the product instructions for guidance.
• If you're uncertain about the proper method or location (e.g., agitator, cavity, dispenser, or drawer) to add liquid fabric softener in your washing machine, consult the washing machine manual. Instructions can differ based on the manufacturer and model.
• Once your washing is complete, make sure to thoroughly dry your clothes and linens. Hanging them to dry after using liquid fabric softener may help maintain their fragrance for a longer time and also conserve energy in the process.