How to Use Fabric Softener in the Wash

When cleaning clothes, fabric softener will not only soften clothes, it greatly reduces static clinginess in synthetic fibers, and adds a fresh scent that will linger after drying. Follow these suggestions for using fabric softener in the washing machine or in formats designed for the clothes dryer.

Step 1: Decide on the Format You Wish to Use

Fabric softener for the washer is usually in a liquid form for use in both top-loading and front-loading washers. If you wish to use a dryer-based fabric softener, then wait till the wash cycle is complete, and add it as you put clothes in the dryer.

Step 2: Measure the Liquid Fabric Softener

The quantity of fabric softener you use is proportional to the size of the washer load. For a large load, pour the liquid fabric softener into the lid of the bottle up to the top fill line marked on the lid. For a medium or small load, pour to the lower fill line on the lid.

Step 3: Get the Fabric Softener into the Washing Machine

If you have a top-loading washing machine, you can pour it directly into the rinse water as it begins to fill, or have it pumped into the washer from the rinse basin on top of the washer. With front-loading washers, pour the fabric softener into the rinse container so it will go into the washer as the rinse cycle begins.

Step 4: Dry Your Clothes and Remove Them

Put all the clothes that are dryer-safe into the dryer. If you choose a dryer-based fabric softener, add 1 dryer sheet for a medium load and 2 for a large load. Put them in on top of the dryer load so they can come in contact with all the wet clothes. Dryer sheets can be used two or three times.

The newest type of dryer-based fabric softener is in the form of two spiked spheres called dryer balls. These lift the clothes and help air circulate, reducing static electricity and helping the clothes dry faster. In theory, they are supposed to help soften the clothes, too, but this process works better when the dryer is at a medium or low temperature setting than with high drying temperatures.

Step 5: Other Ways to Use Fabric Softener

Liquid fabric softener can also be used during the rinse process after handwashing clothes. For an average sink full of water, use 1 tbsp. of fabric softener. Immerse the clothing in the water and squeeze the fabric softener and water through them, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. With new steam-activated washers and dryers, place a dryer sheet in the machine as you are steaming, to release the scent and reduce static electricity build-up.

Precautions When Using Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets

Do not pour colored liquid fabric softener directly onto clothes. The coloring agent can stain light-colored garments.

Use a stiff brush on your dryer's lint trap every few loads when using dryer sheets, and wash it in hot soapy water once a month, to prevent build-up of the drying agent on the lint trap.