Is it really necessary to use fabric softener?

How important is fabric softener? Some people don’t use it at all when they do laundry, while others consider it an essential element for keeping garments in good condition.

On this occasion, we tell you everything you need to know about fabric softener, as well as some of the main advantages and disadvantages of using this product when you do laundry. Find out the pros and cons of fabric softener so you can decide for yourself!

What is fabric softener?

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Fabric softener is a product that is designed to enhance clothes washing, especially for garments that are delicate in terms of texture, material and color. Its main mission is to soften the fabrics to make them feel good against your skin.

One of the components of fabric softeners is a special lubricant that serves to protect the fibers of the fabrics and make them even softer to the touch. In addition, it helps condition fabric and makes ironing easier which helps save not only time, but also money.

Advantage: It removes static from clothes

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During a wash cycle, it is common for clothes to rub against each other, causing static that can wear down fibers and make your clothes feel tighter and tighter each time you wear them.

In addition to general discomfort, the constant friction in the wash cycle could cause more wear and tear on your garments. Therefore, ideally, use the recommended amount of fabric softener indicated by the manufacturer.

Advantage: Maintains the color and shape of clothes

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Do you feel that your clothes become faded and misshapen? You may need to use fabric softener! The same friction that causes discomfort when wearing clothes is what causes damage, sometimes irreversible, to the shape of your clothes.

As you know, clothes tend to shrink during the wash or dry cycle, but one way to prevent this is by properly using fabric softeners, as they help maintain the elasticity of the fabric and prevent fibers from breaking easily.

Disadvantage: They contain chemicals that can irritate the skin

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The chemical components used in the manufacture of fabric softeners, such as scents and dyes, can cause irritation to sensitive skin and even allergies that appear after repeated use of the product.

As you can see, the using fabric softener is, in most cases, an excellent addition to your laundry process. Before choosing one, check that you are not allergic to its components and that it works with the type of washing machine you have at home.