Fabric softener, also known as fabric conditioner, is a fabric enhancer that can be used along with detergent like conditioner is used along with shampoo. It has many benefits that can be important to clothing, including fabric protection and prevention of stretching, fuzzing, and fading.

Like hair conditioner, fabric softener contains fatty acids which are used to change how a material feels. In a classic case of opposites attracting, the positively charged fatty acids are drawn to the negatively charged fabrics in the wash, lubricating the fabric fibers. This makes the fibers feel softer and protects them from damage, especially during the laundry process, when clothes can be thrashed 3,000 times in the wash and spin as fast as 50 miles per hour. This is especially important for natural fibers like cotton and linen which can be rougher and more prone to damage and can benefit from the softening and conditioning that fabric softeners provide.

Fabric softener can be used safely on many fabrics, including towels and athletic shirts. Always follow the care labels on items and wash and dry accordingly. Do not use fabric softener on children’s sleepwear or other flame-resistant clothes, as it may reduce flame resistance.

Fabric enhancers come in different forms to suit your needs. Liquid fabric softeners are usually added to the washing machine and dispensed during the rinse cycle. There is also fabric rinse, which acts like a laundry stripper to rinse away residues and odors. Scent beads can be added to the washing machine drum to add long-lasting fragrance to clothing. Dryer sheets are activated by the heat, moisture and tumbling action of the dryer and help to reduce static and wrinkles.

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