Fabricsoftener Internal

Do You Really Need To Use Fabric Softener?


April 22, 2024 | Penelope Singh

Do You Really Need To Use Fabric Softener?


When it comes to doing laundry, some people have strong opinions about using fabric softener. Some think it's a must-have, while others see it as just a nice-to-have. But here's the thing: whether you really need to use fabric softener depends on how you like your clothes to feel and how often you do laundry. Ultimately, it's all about personal preference!

Shutterstock 11421873291Shutterstock

How fabric softeners work

Generally speaking, clothes feel softer and less sticky after using fabric softeners. This is because fabric softeners work by covering your clothes' fibers with a thin layer of chemicals that make them feel smoother. But, it's important to think about whether you really need to use fabric softeners in your laundry routine.

If you or someone in your family has sensitive skin, it's best to avoid fabric softeners as they can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Instead, try using a hypoallergenic detergent that is gentler on the skin.

Shutterstock 1459814537Shutterstock

Advertisement

Not all fabrics are the same

When washing clothes, it's also important to think about the type of fabric they are made of. Fabric softeners can be helpful for things like towels and bedding, but they might not be as useful for everyday clothes like athletic wear or towels.

In fact, some fabrics might actually benefit from not using fabric softener, as it can help them keep their ability to wick away moisture or absorb it.

Shutterstock 2183060887Shutterstock

Advertisement

It's all up to you

When it comes to using fabric softener in the wash, there isn't really a definitive rule—it's really up to you! If you like the way it makes your clothes feel and smell, and your skin doesn't get irritated by it, then go for it.

But if you're not super fussed about it or prefer a simpler laundry routine, you can skip the fabric softener without sacrificing how clean or soft your clothes are. It's all about finding what works best for you and your laundry needs.


READ MORE

Happy multicultural office young employees with old mentor leader coach laughing working together gather in boardroom, diverse corporate business team having fun engaged in teamwork at group meeting

Changing Your Career Late In Life—It’s Never Too Late

Whether they’ve been laid off or are simply unhappy in their jobs, they might wonder if they really want to stay on the path they’ve laid out for themselves—or if it’s possible to make a change after 30, 40, or 50.
October 19, 2026 Sammy Tran
Boredominternal

A Regular Dose Of Boredom Is Good For Your Mental Well-Being

In today’s culture, boredom is viewed as a problem to be solved instantly, but a minimum level of boredom is actually necessary for our own mental well-being.
October 19, 2026 J.D. Blackwell
Fpthumb

French People Are The Happiest On Earth—And Here's Why

The happiest people in the world are 50 to 65-year-old couples without kids living in the west of France. At least, according to a major new French study. Covid caused happiness to dip all around the world, so what can we learn from happiest of us?
October 19, 2026 Jamie Hayes
Split with Farrah Fawcett and stylish man in suit in 1970s

20 70s Trends That Need To Come Back—And 20 That Should Stay There

We’ve sifted through the good, the bad, and the ugly of 70s trends, and sorted out which ones need to come back—and which need to stay gone forever.
October 18, 2026 Samantha Henman
Childwinloseinternal

Teaching Your Child To Win And Lose Gracefully

What parents can do if games are ending up with your child sulking in defeat, gloating in victory, or even dumping the gameboard.
October 18, 2026 Miles Rook
Menopausal Mature Woman At Home Standing By Window Suffering With Heart Palpitations

11 Heart Attack Symptoms That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Noticing a heart attack early can save lives—and there are 11 key symptoms everyone should know.
October 18, 2026 Samantha Henman


✕