Replace commercial fabric softeners in the washing machine with these 3 effective natural DIY alternatives
A fabric softener is an essential additive for the washing of our laundry. Made using synthetic chemicals and fragrances, fabric softener penetrates fabrics, reducing friction and static electricity, resulting in greater softness and fewer creases.
The chemicals in fabric softeners, however, can have harmful or damaging effects on our fabrics, our skin and the environment. This is because:
- by remaining on clothes, they compromise absorbency and breathability;
- they can clog washing machine filters, compromising efficiency;
- the costs for their production and disposal are very high, not to mention their high polluting impact on the environment;
- they can cause irritation to the skin and airways.
For all these reasons, it is advisable to replace commercial fabric softeners with natural alternatives, perhaps even made by yourself. Below, we outline 3 natural alternatives to the use of commercial fabric softeners.
DIY liquid fabric softener using vinegar
Making a liquid vinegar-based product is one of the most sustainable ways to replace commercial fabric softeners with natural products. In fact, a vinegar-based softener will not only allow you to soften your laundry by reducing static electricity, but will also be useful for keeping your washing machine cleaner.
Get some baking soda, white vinegar and essential oils and prepare your fabric softener as follows:
Mix one part baking soda with 2 parts of water, shaking well so that the baking soda dissolves completely. Slowly add 150 ml of vinegar and mix thoroughly. If desired, add an essential oil or a mixture of essential oils for fragrance. Then use 100 ml of this product (poured into the fabric softener dispenser tray/slot).
DIY wool softener balls
Scented wool balls are a widely used alternative to soften fabrics during the drying cycle, but they can also be used with great results in the washing machine. You can make these yourself quickly and easily using one of 2 simple methods:
- The first method involves the use of woolen scraps, which you need to roll into a ball. At this point, insert the wool ball into a nylon stocking, securing it with cotton thread. Then put this ball into the washing machine and do a regular wash. Use the ball again in the dryer . Add essential oil to the ball if you want scented laundry.
- The second method instead uses woolen thread, which you will need to wrap at least 20 times around your fingers to form a ball. Place 3 balls in a nylon stocking and secure with knots, making sure to keep the individual balls separate. You can use them all together as one or cut them into individual balls.
Using woolen balls in the washing machine will have a softening effect. The same is true for the dryer.
DIY fabric softener using Epsom salts
Epsom salts owes its name to the English town where it was first discovered. These salts are used extensively for various household cleaning chores.
Amongst these uses, Epsom salts also prove to be excellent natural substitutes for commercial fabric softeners. Simply put the salts into a glass jar and add 20 or 30 drops of an essential oil you like to produce a DIY fabric softener. Place 2 tablespoons in the fabric softner dispenser tray or directly in the drum along with your laundry.
Have you already chosen your natural fabric softener alternative?
