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Fabric softener is a commonly used product in many households, believed to make clothes fluffier and smell nicer. Yet there are situations where using this product is not advisable because it can damage fabrics over time.

Relating to

• The secret to ironing quickly and achieving perfect clothes

• How to make clothing fluffier with a homemade fabric softener

• Seven surprising uses for fabric softener

Here are some laundry items you should avoid washing with fabric softener.

Clothes that should not be washed with fabric softener

Towels, gym clothes, and menstrual underwear should not be washed with fabric softener. Garments with elastic or windbreakers also respond poorly to this product.

Alternative uses for fabric softener at home.

Contrary to common belief, towels do not become softer or more comfortable when washed with fabric softener. In fact, they tend to lose much of their absorbent quality, resulting in slower drying.

Towels are among the items best kept away from fabric softener to preserve their absorbency.

The oils in softeners can hinder the breathable properties of sportswear. Regularly washing gym clothes with fabric softener gradually reduces breathability and the ability to wick away sweat, leaving skin less dry and comfortable than when new.

Sportswear may lose its breathability after repeated washing with fabric softener.

Raincoats and snow gear may also lose their water repellent properties when washed with fabric softener. The liquid can compromise the coating that makes these clothes repel water, reducing their effectiveness.

Never wash raincoats with fabric softener.

Woolen garments are very delicate; washing them with fabric softener can cause fiber damage that affects temperature regulation.

Laundry items that should never be washed with fabric softener include swimwear and bikinis since the product can degrade the fabric over time.

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Fabric softener is not a good partner with detergent when doing laundry. In the case of menstrual underwear, the oils in the product may degrade the absorbent fabric and reduce effectiveness.

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For microfiber fabrics, the same issue applies. The oils in softeners can degrade the microfiber texture, affecting softness and performance.

Microfiber and towel fabrics can lose their intended properties when fabric softener is used regularly.

In summary, fabric softener should not be used with certain textiles and garments to maintain absorbency, breathability, water resistance, and fabric integrity over time.