Many people are curious whether they can add fabric softener to their detergent to make their clothes softer. In this blog post, we will explore the answer to that question.
What is the Difference Between Fabric Softener and Detergent?
There is a big difference between fabric softener and detergent. A fabric softener makes clothes feel softer, while detergent is used to clean clothes.
A fabric softener is a water-based, viscous liquid, usually white or blue. It is used to reduce the stiffness of the fabric, making it feel softer to the touch. The main chemical in fabric softeners is a cationic surfactant.
Detergent is a synthetic cleaning agent that removes dirt, grease, and stains from fabrics. It is available as a powder, liquid, or tablet. The main chemical in detergent is an anionic surfactant.
Can You Add Fabric Softener to Detergent?
The short answer is yes! Many people wonder whether they can add fabric softener to their laundry detergent. While it’s true that you can add it, there are certain things you should keep in mind before doing so.
For example, you should avoid adding fabric softener to your laundry detergent if:
- You have sensitive skin. Some types of softeners contain ingredients such as perfumes, dyes, and preservatives. These chemicals could irritate your skin.
- Your laundry room is very humid. Dryer sheets can leave a residue on your clothes, which can cause irritation.
- Your laundry is already heavily fragranced. Fragrant laundry detergents are available for those who want to smell nice while cleaning.
What are the benefits?
You might want to add it to your detergent for many reasons. Here are just a few of them:
- It feels good to wear soft clothes. When you put on a shirt made of cotton, you know how comfortable it feels against your skin. But did you know that this feeling comes from cotton absorbing water? That’s right – cotton is naturally hydrophilic (meaning it likes to hold water).
- When you use it, you make your clothes feel even softer. And, if you prefer to wear natural fibers, you will appreciate knowing that it doesn’t harm the material.
- It’s better for the environment. Because it helps reduce wrinkles, it reduces the energy needed to dry your clothes. In addition, it helps prevent soil buildup on your clothes, which keeps your laundry cleaner longer.
- Fabric softener is gentle on your clothes. Since it contains no harsh chemicals or abrasives, it does not damage your clothes. It improves your clothes’ life span by helping them last longer.
How do I add fabric softener to detergent?
There are many different ways to add fabric softener to detergent. Here are just a few options:
- Spray it directly onto your clothes. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle.
- Add to the rinse cycle. Most people add to their laundry by putting it into the rinse cycle.
- Add to your dryer sheet. Most dryer sheets come with instructions telling you how much to add. Follow these instructions carefully.
- Use a dispenser. Dispensers make it easy to add at regular intervals throughout the week.
- Mix it with detergents. There are many different kinds of detergents, including liquids and powders. You can mix it with any kind of detergent. Just make sure to use the proper amount per a load of laundry.
- Consider using a dispensing machine to save money or time washing your clothes. A dispensing unit allows you to dispense it directly into the washtub without measuring each time.
What is a fabric softener ball?
A fabric softener ball is a small, usually round device filled with fabric softener and designed to be used in the dryer.
The ball helps to distribute the fabric softener evenly over your clothes as they tumble in the dryer, resulting in softer, static-free laundry.
Benefits
- It can help save you money by using less fabric softener than if you simply poured it directly onto your clothes.
- It can help prevent your clothes from getting too much fabric softener, making them feel stiff and uncomfortable.
- It can help distribute fabric softener evenly over your clothes, resulting in the softer, static-free laundry.
How to Use
- Fill the ball with your favorite fabric softener.
- Toss it into the dryer with your wet laundry.
- Run the dryer as usual.
- Remove your clothes and enjoy the softer, static-free results!
Can I put fabric softener in detergent?
There’s no need to use fabric softener and detergent together. Using them together can reduce the effectiveness of your laundry detergent.
If you want to use fabric softener, add it to your washing machine after your laundry detergent has finished dissolving.
Can you add fabric softener with detergent?
Yes, you can add fabric softener with detergent. Many people find that adding fabric softener with detergent makes their laundry smell fresher and cleaner.
A fabric softener also helps to reduce static cling and make clothes feel softer.
Do you rinse off fabric softener when hand washing?
Yes, you should always rinse off fabric softener when hand washing. Fabric softener can leave a residue on your clothes that can be difficult to remove.
Rinsing your clothes in cool water after using fabric softener will help remove any residue and leave your clothes looking and feeling their best.
Can I put softener and detergent together?
No, you should not put softener and detergent together. The two products can react and cause your clothes to become discolored or damaged.
If you need to use both products, apply the fabric softener after the detergent has been washed off.
