Why do clothes sometimes not smell as good as we would like? Is it true that more fabric softener means better results?
Fabric softener has a special status in the daily washing routine. It is considered an indispensable additive that gives fabrics softness, a pleasant smell and a feeling of freshness. But most people use it without a clear understanding, How does it work and when does it even make sense to add it?.
Instead of the desired freshness, sometimes it happens that clothes lose their breathability, become saturated with artificial scents or even more difficult to absorb. The key to optimal use is not in quantity, but in knowing correct use – dosage, the time of addition and the type of fabric.
Why fabric softener is not just a “pleasant smell”
Although most people associate fabric softener with fragrant towels and soft bedding, there's more to its formula than just a scent. What's in a regular fabric softener is a carefully designed blend of active ingredients that bind to fabric fibers and create a thin protective layer.
This layer reduces friction during washing, It makes ironing easier and extends the life of fabrics. It also helps reduce static charge and limits the effects of hard water on clothes.
Less is more – the power of concentrated formulas
The market today offers more and more concentrated softeners, which, despite smaller quantities, provide the same effect as the classic versions. Such products are more environmentally friendly - less packaging is used, the amount of water in production is reduced, and the transport weight is lower. However, accurate dosing is key to achieving the expected result.
For a normal load of laundry (approx. 4-5 kg) only 35 ml of fabric softener is sufficient, which is equivalent to one cap. Excessive use does not improve the smell – on the contrary, it can leave a sticky feeling on the fabric or cause skin irritation.
The right washing temperature makes all the difference
Washing laundry at lower temperatures – 30°C – is becoming increasingly widespread due to its lower energy consumption and its friendliness to fabrics. The fabric softener is activated in the rinse phase, so the water temperature in the main wash does not directly affect it. However, it is this phase – last rinse – determines how effectively the softener will work. Lower temperatures allow the softener to remain more stable and effectively treat the fibers without breaking down the ingredients.
When is fabric softener not suitable?
No matter how effective it is, fabric softener not always the best choice. Fabrics such as fleece, microfiber, velvet or terry towels lose their absorbency when washed with fabric softener. These types of materials are designed to absorb moisture or heat, and any protective layer that fabric softener creates weakens this function. Instead of fabric softener, it is recommended to use unscented detergents that preserve the natural properties of the fabric.
Special skin needs and allergies
For people with sensitive skin or a tendency to allergies The choice of fabric softener is crucial. Gentler versions without fragrances and dyes, with dermatological certificates, are a much safer choice. Special attention should be paid to the composition - if any ingredient already causes discomfort, it is best to choose a product with a neutral formula, without allergenic additives.
Less is more, only if we know when and how
