7 Things You Should Never Use Fabric Softener On
Softener can compromise or even flat-out ruin these materials.
Getting clean, fresh-smelling clothes requires more than the best washing machines and dryers. Along with a quality detergent, laundry additives like an effective stain remover or fabric softener can help keep items cleaner, softer and static-free.
But most of these additives aren't necessary every time you run a load. Think of fabric softener as a conditioner for your clothes. It penetrates and coats the fibers, smoothing them out, making them feel softer and more pliable and less prone to creasing — a plus for reducing static and wrinkles. However, on certain materials, softener can build up over time, destroying moisture-wicking coatings, reducing absorbency or even causing discoloration.
You should always check your garment or household item's laundry care label before washing, but in general, the cleaning pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care & Cleaning Lab recommend skipping the fabric softener when washing the following materials.
Activewear
Athletic wear — specifically those made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, spandex and nylon — often has built-in moisture-wicking properties to help absorb sweat and keep you cooler during workouts. Fabric softener can leave behind a residue that prevents them from wicking the way they should.
Swimsuits
Fabric softeners can affect the water-resistant and moisture-wicking properties of a bathing suit. This is largely due to residue that coats the fibers of the fabric over time.
Flame-resistant clothing
Kids' sleepwear — pajamas, nightgowns and sometimes T-shirts and leggings — is required to be flame-resistant to ensure it doesn't catch on fire. Washing these garments in fabric softener impacts those flame-resistant properties, which can pose a safety hazard.
Water-resistant clothing
Fabric softeners can alter the fibers and compromise the waterproof coating on jackets, pants and other outdoor gear. This can render the finish unable to repel water. For something like a rain jacket, this essentially makes the garment unusable — at least for its intended purpose.
Fleece or chenille
Fabrics like fleece and chenille are made up of small fibers that lend a soft and cozy feel. While fabric softener may initially seem to make fleece or chenille feel softer, it can build up on those tiny fibers over time, ultimately reducing their natural softness. Fabric softener can also reduce the flame resistance and even increase the flammability of these fabrics.
Microfiber
Microfiber is fantastic for cleaning because the fabric's intricate threads have the unique ability to trap dust and absorb spills. But if you toss these cloths or towels in the wash with fabric softener, it can compromise the integrity of the fabrics and reduce efficacy.
Towels
There's no luxury quite like a super soft and fluffy towel, but use fabric softener and dryer sheets sparingly — every few loads or so. Overuse can reduce the absorbency of fluffy fabrics like terry cloth.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
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