Don’t Use Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry

You may think that fabric softener would be a good choice to use on your delicates, but it usually isn’t the best idea…

Don’t Use Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry

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!

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry:

“You may think that fabric softener is a good choice to use on your delicates, but it usually isn’t the best idea.”

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.

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry:

“Fabric softener produces a waxy film that can get caught on top of certain fabrics.”

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.

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry:

“Workout clothes are typically lightweight and could be damaged by certain fabric softeners.”

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.

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry:

“Since swimwear is typically made of synthetic materials, fabric softener could cause it to tear more quickly.”

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.

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry:

“You may think that wool is in need of fabric softener since it is a hefty material, but that is not the case.”

The Folde now offers a Delicate Laundry Bag!

You can now choose which items get which treatment! We will no longer charge a hang dry fee. Instead, this Delicates Bag is a $25 flat-rate bag that you can stuff full of your delicate laundry.

The Delicates Bag is for your wash & fold garments that need gentle wash and low-temperature or air dry. For some people, it’s a few pairs of their favorite jeans. For others, it’s workout gear and leggings. However you decide to use this delicates bag, rest assured that the garments in this bag are getting specialized and separated treatment from the rest of your order.

Fabric Softener on Delicate Laundry | The Folde | Laundry Delivery Service