When we talk about laundry, we immediately think of two products: detergent and fabric softener . The first is used to eliminate dirt and stains, the second to make the laundry softer and more fragrant .
However, the abuse of fabric softener can damage some garments , while for others its use is not even recommended, such as for sports and breathable garments. Even towels end up absorbing all the chemical compounds of the fabric softener into the fibers, ruining them.
But the use of fabric softener is not mandatory , and can be replaced with completely natural ingredients that have no contraindications, neither for the clothes nor for our health.
Below we list 3 natural alternatives to laundry softener , to have very soft and fragrant clothes.
Vinegar
It was our grandmothers’ fabric softener, capable of disinfecting and softening laundry, but also eliminating bad odors and lice.
Vinegar also reduces static electricity that may build up on your clothes and easily removes soap residue. Don’t worry about the smell, it will fade once the cloths are completely dry, leaving a pleasant clean aroma.
Sodium bicarbonate
Baking soda is also excellent for neutralizing bad odors, disinfecting and making laundry softer. Unlike vinegar, however, it must be combined with other ingredients.
Mix 250 ml of white vinegar with 75 grams of bicarbonate, then pour the solution into the fabric softener drawer and run a wash cycle.
Citric acid
This excellent alternative to vinegar is also more eco-friendly, whilst having the same softening effect.
Mix 100 grams of citric acid with 1 liter of distilled water and pour the solution directly into the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine.