Pros and Cons of Fabric Softener
Fabric Softener is one of the crucial ingredients used while washing your laundry as it enhances the quality of your fabric even more. It gives your clothes a nice and refreshing smell and makes you feel like you’re holding a new pair of clothes in your hand.
However, as much benefit as it provides, every material has a limit to absorb a certain amount and the same is true with fabric softeners. If you add it beyond the required amount then, not only it damage your fabric in terms of color but can also tear it as well. It’s better to follow the guidance of an experienced laundry service provider to get the best outcome.
So, if you’re about to do laundry, it would be better for you to read the merits and demerits of fabric softener before pouring them into the washing machine:
What does Fabric Softener Do? | Benefits of Fabric Softeners
Enhances the Durability of your Clothes
Ever wonder what does fabric softener do to your clothes? Well, fabric softeners are used to enhance the durability of your fabric. It’s one of the amazing benefits you get while using it. In other words, using fabric softeners means that you can wear your favourite outfits for a long period without letting the color fade away or damaging the fabric.
Just make sure to read the instructions written on the label of your fabric softeners before using them. Mostly, the usage limit ranges from 35 ml to 55 ml however, it may exceed depending on your laundry.
Maintains the Color of your Fabric
Another wonderful benefit of fabric conditioner you’ll get by using a fabric softener is that it keeps the original color of your fabric. That’s because these fabric softeners have a solution that forms a shield on the fabric which protects it from friction during laundry so the color won’t fade away quicker than the expected life span.
Furthermore, there will be less amount of pilling so there won’t be any fuzz balls during the laundry process.
Softens Your Fabric
When you hear the word fabric softener, the most obvious advantage you’ll get is that it’ll soften up your clothes. The fabric of your clothes will be so pleasant to touch, light in weight, and wrinkle-free.
Wondering how that happens? It’s simple. The softener you use gently covers all the fibers of your clothes which reduces the chances of your clothes irritating your skin while you’re wearing it.
Savior for Sensitive Skin
If you have a medical history of skin allergy, then using a fabric softener is the perfect choice for you. Fabric softeners are not only used to enhance fabric quality but also to keep your skin safe from getting irritation from chemicals in detergents.
It happens because as more sensitive your skin is, the more the chances you might have irritation or even get an allergy even if a tiny amount of detergent is left on your clothes after laundry.
Now that you’re done with benefits, fabric softeners can bring some disadvantages as well if used beyond the limit which are:
Also Read: Guide to Choosing the Best Laundry Detergent for Your Needs
Demerits of Using Fabric Softeners
Harmful Chemicals
One of the primary disadvantages of using fabric softener is that it has harmful chemicals. That’s because every fabric has a limit to absorb only a certain amount of fabric softeners like:
Quats – Quats, also known as quaternary ammonium add a great touch to your fabric but if used over the limit, then it can cause asthma.
Dyes – Almost every softener consists of dyes and preservatives in them which can irritate the skin if you’re allergic to it.
Fragrances – Fabric softeners contain phthalates in which are used as a source of scent. However, there are chances that it can cause skin infections and even breathing issues upon exceeding the limit.
Non Eco-friendly Material
As good as fabric softeners are to keep your clothes fresh, there’s a disadvantage to them and that is that they contain chemicals based on petroleum which is considered a non-eco-friendly material. Moreover, they can be used as a source of water pollution if by mistake get thrown in the water.
Works on Selected Fabrics Only
One thing that you need to keep in mind is that fabric softeners do not work on all types of fabrics. It’s the con that you’ll face one way or another. Fabrics like wool, microfiber, and terry cloth are restricted as they can sustain damage if you apply fabric softener to them.
They can lose their shape, and freshness which can cause you a serious setback and if you use them on microfibers like towels then they’ll lose the ability to absorb the moisture.
Limits the Washing Process
As everyone knows fabric softeners form a layer that protects the quality and colour of your outfits from getting damaged. However, this protection layer is used as a disadvantage as well.
That’s because it prevents the water from going through the fabric to the maximum effort and without water passing through, your clothes cannot be washed properly.
Is Fabric Conditioner the Same as Fabric Softener?
Are you confused about “Is fabric conditioner the same as fabric softener”? then we are here to assist you with this query. Fabric conditioner and fabric softener both do the same job, both are used for the same purpose. So, whether you are using fabric conditioner or fabric softener both are used to make your clothes soft and make it smell heavenly. From now your query related to whether fabric conditioner is the same as fabric softener has been resolved.
Fabric Softener Alternative:
If you are looking for a fabric softener alternative then you can use vinegar, epsom salt, or baking soda. All you have to do is just one of the ingredients mentioned above add a small amount of it in the final cycle and you are good to go. These natural ingredients are the perfect fabric softener alternative that you use.
Final Words
When people use fabric softeners, most people only look on the bright side like it protects your fabric’s colour, removes chemicals from your clothes to prevent skin allergy and extend the lifespan of your outfits.
When considering the use of fabric softeners, it’s crucial to weigh both the pros and cons. Alternatively, you can explore more eco-friendly and convenient options with love2laundry’s laundry and dry cleaning services. This article has everything that you need to know more about fabric softener, fabric softener alternative and different between fabric conditioner and fabric softener.
Love2laundry provides professional laundry care without the use of harmful chemicals, ensuring that your clothes remain soft, fresh, and safe for both you and the environment. So, make a thoughtful choice for your laundry needs and let love2laundry take care of your clothes in a way that benefits you and the planet.
