You may think that fabric softener on delicate laundry is a good choice, but it usually isn’t the best idea – some fabric softeners can cause certain delicate fabrics to fade, shrink, or start to pull apart.

If you’re not sure whether or not you should use fabric softener on delicate laundry, it’s a good rule of thumb to check the label for washing instructions – and perhaps err on the side of caution.

While fabric softener does have its benefits, there is a very specific way in which it should be used. However, this household laundry staple can cause damage to certain items if used incorrectly.

There are a lot of different delicate types of clothing that people incorrectly use fabric softener on. Follow along to learn which delicates should avoid fabric softener and why. For more laundry tips, check out our blog!

Down-Filled Comforters and Coats

Fabric softener produces a waxy film that can get caught on top of certain fabrics, such as down-filled comforters, coats, and blankets. This can cause damage to your clothing and can cause the color to fade or warp.

It’s a common misconception, but fabric softener should never really be used on down-filled materials.

Workout Clothes

This is another one that is a common mistake. You may think fabric softeners should be used on workout clothes to keep them comfortable, but workout clothes are typically lightweight and could be damaged by certain fabric softeners.

A better option would be an enzyme detergent if you’re looking to give these clothes an extra type of treatment.

Swimwear

Swimwear is another material where fabric softener could potentially cause more harm than good. Since swimwear is typically made of synthetic materials, fabric softener could cause it to tear more quickly.

Additionally, washing or drying swimwear with fabric softener or conditioner could potentially cause it to absorb more moisture, thus slowing the drying process and leaving it with a musty odor.

Wools and Similar Delicates

You may think that wool is in need of fabric softener since it is a hefty material, but that is not the case. The heftiness of such materials is what gives them their lightness and fluffiness, but when you coat them with conditioner, they lose texture and warmth.

Additionally, fabric softener can cause these types of materials to mat or fall apart, thus decreasing the long-term integrity of the fabric.