Fabric Softeners
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Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners help make your clothing, linens, towels and other items feel softer to the touch and smell fresher and cleaner. Today’s market is brimming with fabric softener options — sheets, liquids, pellets, bars and crystals — from brands such as Downy, Gain and Suavitel. A primer on what fabric softeners do and how to use them can make it easier to choose the right one for your needs from a sea of great options.
When to Add Fabric Softener Into a Laundry Routine
The right time to add fabric softener depends on your washing machine. If it has a dedicated dispenser, you can add the softener before starting the wash. The machine automatically releases the softener during the rinse cycle. If your washing machine doesn't have a fabric softener dispenser, you should wait until the final rinse cycle.
The timing is important; if you add fabric softener too early, your laundry detergent can neutralize the active ingredients and rinse them away. Adding it during the rinse cycle may allow the chemicals to work effectively for maximum fabric softness. The rinse water also helps prevent the softener from leaving residue on your clothes.
Fabric Softener vs. Detergent
Fabric softener and laundry detergent serve two different purposes. Detergent contains cleaning agents that break up dirt, lift stains and remove odors. Laundry fabric softeners work by coating your clothing to reduce static and friction, so they feel softer. They also add floral fragrances or fresh fragrances to give your clothes a pleasant smell.
Laundry detergent and fabric conditioner are most effective when used together. Fabric conditioners and softeners don't clean your clothes, so they shouldn't be used alone. You can use laundry detergent alone, but you won't enjoy the same antistatic and conditioning benefits.
What Do Fabric Softeners Do?
Fabric softeners coat fabric surfaces, causing the threads on the surface to stand up, giving them a fluffier and softer feel. Fabric softeners also bind with the fabric to reduce the electrostatic charge, so clothing has less static cling. Certain fabric softeners may help reduce wrinkles and make fabrics easier to iron. Most fabric softeners also diffuse fragrance into clothing, so it smells great, even after being stored for short periods of time, although there are unscented fabric softeners for users who prefer no scent. The best fabric softener for you depends on your preference for use. Dryer sheets simply go in the dryer with your wet laundry, while liquid fabric softener is added during the rinse cycle.
How to Use Fabric Softener?
To get the most from your fabric softener, make sure to use it correctly. Here's what to do:
Measure the fabric softener. Follow the instructions on the label to measure the correct amount for your load size. Most products, including Downy Ultra Soft + Refresh liquid fabric softener, come with a marked cap for precise measurements for medium and large loads.
Put the fabric softener in the washing machine. For washing machines with a fabric softener dispenser, pour the liquid in before starting the wash cycle. Your dispenser might be located in a drawer in the front panel or in the central post of a top-load machine.
Add the fabric softener manually. If your washing machine doesn't have a dispenser, you need to add fabric softener by hand. Dilute the product with water first to prevent residue and stains. When the machine reaches the rinse cycle. Pause the washing machine, pour in the mixture and restart the washing machine.
Every washing machine is different, so it's important to check the manual for instructions before using fabric softener. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for best results.
Are Scent Boosters Fabric Softeners?
Scent boosters aren't the same thing as fabric softeners. Scent boosters typically come in crystal or bead format and are added to the laundry for the specific purpose of adding fragrance to your clothing, sheets, linens and other items. Depending on their quality, scent boosters can leave your laundry smelling clean and fresh for a long time. They dissolve easily, and if your laundry is already soft, you can use scent boosters in place of fabric softener to enjoy scented laundry without using additional softener.
Shop all your laundry needs — from fabric softener and scent boosters to laundry detergent and bleach — at CVS.com.
Are Fabric Softeners Bad for You?
Fabric softeners are considered safe for use unless the user is allergic to any of the chemicals used in the manufacture of the product. Always check labels for ingredients that you or your loved ones are allergic to prior to purchase, and report any suspected negative reactions to products such as fabric softener to your doctor.
Are Fabric Softeners Safe?
Fabric softeners and dryer sheets are safe for most people. If you have concerns about the safety of your fabric softener, reach out to your medical professional.
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