A laundry specialist from consumer organisation Which? has issued surprising advice for UK households: stop using fabric softener. Victoria Purcell, an expert with Which?, warns that fabric softener can damage garment fibres over time, leaving them stiff and crispy rather than soft. It can also cause skin irritation.
Alternative methods recommended
Instead of fabric softener, Purcell suggests soaking clothes in a mixture of white vinegar and water before rinsing and washing. She advises keeping fabric softener away from towels, as it reduces absorbency. The best way to soften towels is a quick spin in the tumble dryer or drying outdoors on a warm, breezy day.
Reddit and NHS warnings
The cleaning forum r/CleaningTips on Reddit warns that fabric softener builds up over time, creating mould and mildew problems in front-loading machines. The NHS also advises people with eczema to avoid fabric softener, recommending non-bio washing powder and an extra rinse cycle instead.
Which? survey results
Which? surveyed over 1,000 members about fabric softener use. Roughly half used it in some or most washes, with about one in five using it every time. Around half cited softer clothes as the main benefit, while a fifth valued the fragrance. Those who avoid it worry about environmental impact and fabric damage.
One reader commented: "It really doesn't make a difference to my laundry." Others noted towels dry less efficiently and machines accumulate more buildup.
Disagreement from some users
Not everyone agreed with the Which? expert. X user Syrius responded: "Laundry expert? Dry outside on a warm breezy day can result in towels that resemble starched tablecloths." They recommended bringing towels in when slightly damp and finishing with 10 minutes in the tumble dryer.
Four reasons to avoid fabric softener
Which? outlines four key reasons to avoid fabric softener:
- Skin irritation: Most softeners contain fragrances that can trigger reactions in sensitive skin or eczema sufferers. Fragrance-free options are limited.
- Increased flammability: The fat-based nature of fabric softeners may make clothes more flammable. They should not be used on flame-resistant items like curtains, upholstery, baby clothes, or children's items.
- Stiff clothing: The waxy residue builds up with each wash, leaving clothes feeling stiff rather than soft.
- Reduced cleaning efficacy: The accumulated layers hinder detergent from penetrating fibres, making it less effective at removing dirt and stains.
The expert and various sources agree: avoid fabric softener for better laundry results and machine longevity.
