Natural Fabric Softener

A simple, effective fabric softener that leaves clothes soft without synthetic fragrances or chemicals.

Prep Time 2 minutes
Yield 1 cup (4-6 loads)
Difficulty Easy
Cost $0.25

Ingredients

  • 1 cup White vinegar
  • 15-20 drops Essential oil (Lavender, lemon, or your choice)
Safe for: all washable fabrics, towels, baby clothes, sensitive skin
Avoid on: nothing - safe for all fabrics

Why This Recipe Works

Vinegar naturally softens fabrics by breaking down detergent residue that can make clothes feel stiff. Don’t worry - your clothes won’t smell like vinegar! The scent completely dissipates during the rinse cycle, leaving only the essential oil fragrance.

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: Mix vinegar and essential oils in a glass jar or bottle. Shake well to combine.

  2. Add to wash: Add 1/4 cup to the fabric softener dispenser, or add during the rinse cycle.

  3. Shake before each use: Essential oils separate, so shake before pouring.

Tips & Variations

  • Boost softness: Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin for extra softening power.
  • Dryer balls: Use wool dryer balls with a few drops of essential oil for scent in the dryer.
  • For towels: This is especially great for towels - vinegar removes buildup that makes them less absorbent.
  • No fabric softener dispenser?: Add during the rinse cycle manually.

Safety Notes

  • Completely safe: This is one of the safest laundry products you can make.
  • No vinegar smell: The scent fully evaporates during drying.
  • Don’t mix with bleach: If using bleach, skip the vinegar softener for that load.
  • Good for septic systems: Vinegar is septic-safe and even beneficial for septic systems.

Storage

Store at room temperature. Shake well before each use. Lasts indefinitely.

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