Healthier Fabric Softener Alternatives

When the dirty laundry starts to pile up, you throw a load into the washer. Then you toss them in the dryer, followed by a dryer sheet. Or, maybe you put liquid fabric softener while the clothes are still in the wash cycle. That's how it's done, isn't it?

It doesn't have to be that way.

Studies show that the "non-toxic" fabric softener or dryer sheets you may be using include some harmful ingredients, which can cause not only allergic reactions, but headaches, loss of respiratory function - and even cancer. You may have already heard of these chemicals: alpha-terpineol, benzyl acetate, camphor, benzyl alcohol, limonene, ethyl acetate, pentane and chloroform.

Since learning the risks dryer sheets can pose, I have started using some healthier fabric softener alternatives.

1. Dryer balls. I have never had a problem with them, but there is a chance the spikes may put holes in delicate articles of clothing, so you may want to let these pieces dry on their own. As an alternative, you could try adding a few tennis balls to fluff your laundry. To avoid getting dye from the balls on your clothing, stuff them inside old socks before drying your clothes.

2. Essential oils. Dryer sheets may smell good, but I like to place a few drops of essential oils onto a damp washcloth and throw it into the dryer with my clothes - and a couple dryer balls, to fluff the laundry - as a healthier fabric softener alternative. There are dozens of oil scents to choose from, but I really love lavender oil. It helps to relax and soothe the senses, while giving my laundry a fresh smell.

3. Kitchen staples. A half cup of baking soda softens fabric if you add it to the water in the machine, and let it dissolve before adding the clothes. You can also add a quarter cup of vinegar to the final rinse; not only will it act as a fabric softener, but it will also completely remove detergent residue.

4. Natural detergents. Some eco-friendly laundry detergents have built-in fabric softeners. These soaps do not have the toxic chemicals you might find in most commercial brands. Check out these options for a greener cleaning solution.

5. Drying rack. First of all, try to keep synthetic materials in a separate load than natural fibers, since synthetics are the static culprits - or keep them out of the dryer altogether. Now, to cut out static altogether, dry your laundry only partially and take them out while still damp - even taking them out ten minutes early will help. Then hang them on a drying rack or clothesline to finish drying. Partial drying is a healthier alternative to using dryer sheets for eliminating static.

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