Do You Really Need to Use Fabric Softener? Here's What Cleaning Experts Say

Fabric softener is a common laundry addition that many people consider as essential as detergent, thanks to its ability to make clothes and linens feel soft and wrinkle-free. While some use it out of habit, others choose it for its practical benefits. But what exactly does fabric softener do, and how does it impact your laundry items? We consulted cleaning experts to explain the effects of this popular laundry staple and what you need to know before using it.

What Does Fabric Softener Do?

Fabric softener is a laundry product designed to improve the feel, texture, and overall softness of fabrics by depositing a thin layer of chemicals onto the fibers during the washing process, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. "This coating reduces friction between the fibers, making the fabric feel softer and smoother to the touch," she says.

Pros and Cons of Using Fabric Softener

Before using fabric softener, it's helpful to be aware of both the pros and cons.

Pros

Fabric softener has many benefits. In addition to enhancing the softness and smoothness of clothes, the product can also reduce static cling and minimize wrinkles, providing an overall pleasant and comfortable feel to laundered items, says Cohoon.

Cons

Fabric softener is tough on fabric since it can take away its natural characteristics like breathability or wicking, says Patric Richardson of The Laundry Evangelist. Additionally, fabric softener can be potentially harmful to clothes over time as it may leave behind residues that can reduce the absorbency of fabric and contribute to the breakdown of fibers, says Cohoon.

Types of Fabric Softener

There are three main types of fabric softeners: liquid fabric softener, dryer sheets, and dryer balls. "Each type offers a different approach to achieving softness in laundry," says Cohoon.

• Dryer sheets: These are added to the dryer and coat the surface of fabric to reduce friction and minimize static, says Richardson.
• Liquid fabric softener: This is a liquid added during the washing machine cycle and coats the fabrics to make them feel softer, says Cohoon.
• Dryer balls: Usually made of rubber or wool, dryer balls agitate the fabrics (which they're in the dryer), helping to fluff and soften them without leaving a coating.

When Not to Use Fabric Softener

While fabric softener is generally suitable for cotton, linen, and natural fiber fabrics, there are some materials that don't stand up well to the product. "Fabric softener should be avoided when washing activewear, towels, or items made with moisture-wicking fabrics, as it can reduce their effectiveness by leaving a coating that hinders absorption and breathability," says Cohoon. "Additionally, it's not recommended for items labeled as flame-resistant, as it may compromise the fabric's fire-resistant properties."

How to Use Fabric Softener

When doing laundry, add fabric softener to the rinse cycle of your washing machine, says Cohoon. Pour it directly into the fabric softener dispenser, if your machine has one. If you're using dryer sheets or dryer balls, add them to your dryer with your laundry.

Fabric Softener and Sensitive Skin

The ingredients and fragrances in some liquid fabric softeners and dryer sheets can cause irritation for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Fragrance-free or hypoallergenic fabric softeners are available, but you can also try natural options, like white vinegar or essential oil-infused wool dryer balls. Adding 1/4 cup baking soda to your washing machine can also help maintain fabric softness and balance the pH of the rinse water without introducing any potential irritants.