Fabrics are the most abused items in the home. Every laundry enthusiast knows that fabric softeners and detergents are necessary for proper cleaning. But when used improperly, this laundry staples can wreak havoc on just about anything. Here is an overview of five fabric softener myths that might surprise you.
Fabric softener does not work on cotton: This popular laundry tip comes from a laundry consultant who says, “Lanolin works on natural fabrics but most fabric softeners do not.” This popular solution can also leave cotton dryer residue behind, making your entire load become stiff and scratchy. Another problem with fabric softener is that, after using it, some people experience an acidic taste in their mouth and on their clothes. Unfortunately, there is no substitute for natural fabrics in terms of stain resistance and overall quality, so be sure to use a fabric softener that contains natural oils.
Laundry beads do not work on synthetic fabrics like silk or polyester: Laundry beads (also known as microporous fabric softener) are one of the most inexpensive laundry detergents on the market. They are designed to work on all kinds of fabrics like cotton, wool, silk and synthetic fabrics like nylon or rayon. However, these laundry beads are not particularly absorbent and do not work well on any kind of fabric that relies on regular absorbency for its comfort. Moreover, the beads create a film on the fabric that attracts stains and doesn’t allow clean clothes to absorb into the fibers. You can try using an organic fabric softener instead.
Washing clothes using bar soap is better than using laundry detergent: This popular laundry detergent is one of the most affordable household cleaners. Some manufacturers recommend its use on upholstery fabric. In addition to being inexpensive, it is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly. However, it does not perform well on synthetic fabrics such as rayon or nylon and may even cause mattress cleaning fabric softening and fading. You can get a good fabric softener in your local drugstore.
Washing your laundry by hand can be very bad for your fabric: Hand washing can be risky because you might spread bacteria and other chemicals. In addition, laundry soaps are usually composed of toxic chemicals. Before you begin hand washing your fabric, make sure that the washing machine you’re using has a “bleach protector” option. If not, read your laundry care label to make sure that your laundry soap isn’t a direct carcinogen.
Deodorizers with fragrances are alright if you don’t suffer from sensitive skin: Most people with sensitive skin avoid using deodorants and prefer instead to use a gentle perfumed soap. However, some fragrances (commonly found in cheap perfume and Cologne) can cause a reaction. Other than fragrance, it is best to choose Alo Ve Sinh fabric softeners that do not contain any dyes or colors, which can irritate your skin. Wool is a good fabric softener. It contains natural proteins that gently break down and absorb the liquids from your clothes.
Vinegar is still a popular laundry detergent ingredient despite the misuse described above. To use vinegar effectively, mix it with water in a spray bottle and add some baking soda. After that, apply it to your stained or soiled area(s) and wring out the excess. On delicate fabrics like cotton, it’s advisable to first soak the fabric in a solution of diluted vinegar before scrubbing it.
Laundry strips are a great alternative for anyone who wants to avoid harsh chemicals and household cleaners. They’re not too messy, easy to apply, and environmentally friendly. They come in two versions: with or without perfume. The perfume-free version is meant for sensitive skin; the strip wash version is ideal for regular clothes that need to be washed. When used properly, laundry strips can help remove mildew, dust, dirt, and stains while leaving your clothes looking fresh and clean.