In your next load of laundry, why not opt for something natural that softens, whitens and reduces odors?
There are many reasons why we use fabric softener and I think one of the reasons is that it has become habit, plus we want our clothes and linens to smell fresh and feel soft.
Have you ever checked what ingredients are actually used to make fabric softener?
What ingredients are in fabric softeners?
The artificial scents that make laundry smell like fresh morning rain or fields of flowers contain toxic substances that can harm your health, and pollute the air inside your home.
They can cause immediate and long term health problems like asthma, hormone disruption, heart disease, cancer, headaches, eye irritation, congestion, and nausea.
What can I use to soften my laundry?
A simple, eco-friendly alternative:
Scented vinegar fabric softener.
Adding vinegar to your load actually softens, whitens, and reduces odors.
Worried about your laundry smelling like pickles? Well don't be, once the washing dries, the smell will disappear.
If you're wanting your laundry to smell fresh, just add your favourite essential oils to the mix.
How to make natural fabric softener
Pour 1⁄4 cup of the vinegar mixture into the fabric softener dispenser for each load of laundry. Shake the bottle well before each use. (If you're worried about static cling, toss a few wool dryer balls into the dryer for all-natural, static-free laundry that dries in less time than usual.)
What you need:
- Distilled white vinegar
- Glass water bottle
- Essential oil
How to do it:
Add five drops of essential oil for every two cups of vinegar. If you like a really strong smell, add even more essential oils. Play with combinations to create signature scents: five drops of lemongrass plus five drops of peppermint create the most delightful spring scent.
Tip: Using a glass bottle is preferable when using essential oils
How to use:
Pour 1⁄4 cup of the vinegar mixture into the fabric softener dispenser for each load of laundry.