Fabric Softener

There are two types of fabric softeners available: sheets and liquids. Fabric softeners offer several benefits, regardless of whether sheet or liquid forms are used. They are designed to make clothes feel softer and smoother, as well as to reduce the number of wrinkles in clothing and mitigate the need to iron. Fabric softeners come in scented as well as fragrance free options.

How to Use Fabric Softeners

Add liquid fabric softener during your washing machine's final rinse cycle. You can either add the liquid at a specific time or use the automatic dispenser in your washing machine. Make sure there is water in the machine when you add the softener.

If you are using sheets to soften your clothing, add them just before you start your drier. Heat activates the softening properties of fabric softener sheets.

The bottom line is that you should always read the manufacturer's instructions and follow them if you want to have soft, fluffy clothes. Also look for any special cleaning instructions that may appear on the labels of your clothing.

Fabric Softener Sheet Tips

If you want to soften a less-than-full load of clothing, throw a damp towel in the dryer with the clothing. This will help the fabric softener work correctly through your clothing.

If you use a fabric softener sheet when drying polyester clothes, you may end up with waxy/greasy residue on your clothing. This can be easily removed by rewashing the affected clothes.

Fabric softener sheets have other uses as well. For example, you can deodorize your shoes or control odors in your wastebasket by placing these sheets in them.