Laundry is a chore everyone needs to do, but it can feel like it’s dragging on forever. **Laundry softeners** make this job quicker and more pleasant. These cool liquids not only soften and freshen your clothes, but they also cut down on static cling, make ironing easier, and might even help your clothes last longer.
When it comes to choosing the best laundry softener, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the type of softener you want to use. There are liquid fabric softeners, dryer sheets, and even wool dryer balls. Each type has its pros and cons, so you’ll need to decide which one is right for you.
Another important factor to consider is the scent. Some people prefer a strong fragrance, while others prefer something more subtle. You’ll also want to think about the ingredients in the softener. Some contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, so if you have allergies or skin sensitivities, you’ll want to choose a product that is hypoallergenic and free of harsh chemicals.
At our testing facility, we spent countless hours researching and testing various laundry softeners to identify the ones that work the best. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best laundry softeners and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase.
Best Laundry Softeners
We all love the smell of freshly washed clothes, but sometimes even the best laundry detergent doesn’t leave our clothes feeling as soft as we’d like. That’s where fabric softeners come in. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research and put together a list of the best laundry softeners available. Whether you prefer liquid or sheets, scented or unscented, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect softener for your laundry routine.
Downy Infusions Laundry Fabric Softener Liquid, Calm Scent, Lavender & Vanilla Bean
If you’re looking for a fabric softener that leaves your clothes smelling amazing and feeling soft, Downy Infusions Calm Fabric Softener is a great choice.
Pros
- The lavender and vanilla bean scent is soothing and relaxing.
- It’s safe for all washing machines, including HE machines.
- The fabric softener freshens and softens clothes, leaving them feeling great.
Cons
- Some people may find the scent too strong or overpowering.
- It’s more expensive than some other fabric softeners on the market.
- The scent may not last as long as some people would like.
We recently tried Downy Infusions Calm Fabric Softener and were impressed with the results. The scent is lovely and relaxing, and it left our clothes feeling soft and fresh. We also appreciate that it’s safe for all washing machines, including HE machines.
One thing to keep in mind is that the scent may be too strong for some people. While we enjoyed it, others may find it overpowering. Additionally, it’s more expensive than some other fabric softeners on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality fabric softener that will leave your clothes feeling soft and smelling great, Downy Infusions Calm Fabric Softener is definitely worth considering.
Downy Ultra Cool Cotton Liquid Fabric Conditioner (Fabric Softener), 150 Loads 111 fl oz 111.00 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Fresh
If you’re looking for a fabric softener that leaves your clothes smelling fresh and feeling soft, then Downy Ultra Cool Cotton Fabric Conditioner is the one for you.
Pros
- Prevents stretching, fading, and fuzz
- Leaves behind a freshly-washed scent
- Reduces static and wrinkles
Cons
- Price may be higher than other brands
- Some people may prefer a different scent
- May not work as well with certain fabrics
We recently tried Downy Ultra Cool Cotton Fabric Conditioner and were impressed with the results. Not only did it leave our clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh, but it also helped reduce wrinkles and static. We also noticed that our clothes didn’t stretch or fade as much after multiple washes.
One thing to keep in mind is that the price may be higher than other fabric softener brands on the market. Additionally, some people may prefer a different scent than the cool cotton fragrance that Downy offers. Lastly, we found that it may not work as well with certain fabrics, so be sure to read the label before using it on all of your clothes.
Overall, we highly recommend Downy Ultra Cool Cotton Fabric Conditioner for anyone looking for a high-quality fabric softener that delivers on its promises.
Gain Fabric Softener
If you’re looking for a fabric softener that will leave your clothes smelling fresh and feeling soft, then Gain Fabric Softener is the product for you.
Pros
- The scent is amazing and lasts for weeks
- Makes clothes incredibly soft
- Works in all types of washing machines
Cons
- The scent may be too strong for some people
- The bottle is quite large and may be difficult to handle for some
- May not be suitable for people with sensitive skin
We recently tried Gain Fabric Softener and were blown away by the results. The scent is absolutely amazing and lasts for weeks, leaving our clothes smelling fresh and clean. It also makes our clothes incredibly soft, which is a huge plus.
We love that it works in all types of washing machines, including top load, front load, and high efficiency machines. This makes it a versatile product that can be used by anyone.
However, the scent may be too strong for some people, so if you’re sensitive to strong scents, you may want to avoid this product. Additionally, the bottle is quite large and may be difficult to handle for some people. Finally, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to be cautious when using this product as it may cause irritation.
Overall, we highly recommend Gain Fabric Softener for anyone looking for a product that will leave their clothes smelling fresh and feeling soft.
Tru Earth Fabric Softener Strips
We highly recommend the Tru Earth Fabric Softener Strips for anyone looking for an eco-friendly, hassle-free, and effective laundry softener.
Pros
- The ultra-concentrated formula is designed for use in the washing machine, making it more convenient than traditional liquid softeners.
- The strips are incredibly easy to use, with no measuring or spills required.
- The gentle formula is safe for the environment and works with all washing machines and temperature settings.
Cons
- Some users may prefer scented softeners, as these strips are fragrance-free.
- While the strips are great for reducing wrinkles, they may not be as effective as traditional liquid softeners for extremely heavy loads.
- The strips may not be as widely available in stores as other softeners.
We were impressed with the Tru Earth Fabric Softener Strips from the moment we started using them. The strips are incredibly easy to use – simply add one to the drum of your washing machine for each load. We appreciated how much space they saved compared to traditional liquid softeners, and the fact that they are much more eco-friendly.
The strips left our laundry feeling soft and fresh, with noticeably fewer wrinkles. We also appreciated the fact that they are safe for the environment and work with all washing machines. While they may not be as effective for extremely heavy loads, we found them to be a great alternative to traditional liquid softeners for most loads.
Overall, we highly recommend the Tru Earth Fabric Softener Strips for anyone looking for a convenient, eco-friendly, and effective laundry softener.
ATTITUDE Fabric Softener
If you’re looking for a fabric softener that is gentle on your clothes and the environment, ATTITUDE Fabric Softener is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with natural and mineral ingredients, making it safe for you and the environment.
- Contains advanced deodorizing properties that work well even in cold water.
- The scent of wildflowers is perfectly sweet and floral, leaving your laundry smelling like a bouquet of fresh flowers.
Cons
- The scent may not last as long as some other fabric softeners, so you may need to use a little more than recommended.
- The bottle is not as large as some other brands, so you may need to purchase more frequently.
- Some users may find the scent too strong or overpowering.
We recently tried ATTITUDE Fabric Softener and were impressed with its natural and mineral-based formula. It left our clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh, without any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. The scent of wildflowers is light and refreshing, and we appreciated that it was not too overpowering.
One of the best things about ATTITUDE Fabric Softener is that it is made with natural and mineral ingredients, making it safe for you and the environment. It contains no harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances, and the bottle is made from easily recyclable HDPE #2 plastic. We also appreciated that it is vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it.
Another great feature of ATTITUDE Fabric Softener is its advanced deodorizing properties. Even when washing in cold water, it effectively removes odors and leaves your clothes smelling fresh and clean. We also found that it worked well with a variety of fabrics, including towels, sheets, and clothing.
While we loved the scent of wildflowers, some users may find it too strong or overpowering. Additionally, the scent may not last as long as some other fabric softeners, so you may need to use a little more than recommended. Finally, the bottle is not as large as some other brands, so you may need to purchase more frequently.
Overall, we highly recommend ATTITUDE Fabric Softener for anyone looking for a natural and effective fabric softener. Its gentle formula and advanced deodorizing properties make it a great choice for anyone who wants to keep their clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh without any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
Buying Guide
When choosing a laundry softener, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for:
Types of Softeners
There are three types of laundry softeners: liquid, dryer sheets, and crystals. Liquid softeners are added to the washer during the rinse cycle, while dryer sheets are added to the dryer. Crystals are added to the washer and dissolve during the wash cycle. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Fragrance
Laundry softeners come in a variety of fragrances, including floral, fruity, and fresh scents. Some people prefer unscented softeners, especially if they have sensitive skin or allergies. When choosing a fragrance, consider your personal preferences and any potential allergies or sensitivities.
Concentration
Laundry softeners come in both concentrated and non-concentrated forms. Concentrated softeners are more potent and require less product per load, making them more cost-effective in the long run. However, they can be more expensive upfront.
Fabric Compatibility
Not all softeners are compatible with all fabrics. Some softeners may damage certain types of fabrics, such as athletic wear or delicate fabrics. Always check the label to ensure that the softener is safe for your specific type of fabric.
Eco-Friendly Options
Some laundry softeners are made with eco-friendly ingredients and are better for the environment. Look for products that are labeled as “biodegradable,” “plant-based,” or “natural” to reduce your environmental impact.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best laundry softener for your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated fabric softeners for sensitive skin?
When it comes to sensitive skin, it’s important to choose a fabric softener that is hypoallergenic and free of dyes and perfumes. Some of the top-rated fabric softeners for sensitive skin include Downy Free & Gentle, Seventh Generation Free & Clear, and Bounce Free & Gentle.
Which fabric softeners have the longest lasting scent?
If you’re looking for a fabric softener that will leave your clothes smelling fresh for a long time, try using Downy Unstopables or Gain Fireworks. These scent boosters can be added to your laundry along with your regular fabric softener to give your clothes an extra boost of fragrance.
How do liquid fabric softeners compare to other types for use in washing machines?
Liquid fabric softeners are easy to use and can be added directly to your washing machine during the rinse cycle. They are also effective at reducing static cling and making clothes feel softer. However, some people prefer dryer sheets or scent boosters because they are less messy and more convenient.
What are the best smelling combinations of fabric softener and detergent?
Choosing a fabric softener and detergent that complement each other can lead to a great smelling laundry experience. Some popular combinations include Tide Original with Downy April Fresh, Gain Original with Bounce Outdoor Fresh, and Arm & Hammer Clean Scentsations with Snuggle Exhilarations.
According to Consumer Reports, which fabric softeners perform best?
Consumer Reports has tested and ranked various fabric softeners based on their effectiveness at softening clothes, reducing static cling, and leaving clothes smelling fresh. Some of the top performers include Downy Ultra Infusions, Gain Original, and Bounce Outdoor Fresh.
Is it more effective to use fabric softener or just laundry detergent for softening clothes?
While laundry detergent can help soften clothes to a certain extent, fabric softener is specifically designed to make clothes feel softer and reduce static cling. If you want your clothes to be as soft as possible, it’s best to use both laundry detergent and fabric softener.