A lot of people do every load of laundry the same. They add detergent into the wash and fabric softener or dryer sheets. While there are benefits of using fabric softener such as: reduced static, softer feeling fabrics, and an added scent if desired; many people may not know that fabric softener is actually harmful to certain fabrics.
Fabrics To Avoid Using Fabric Softener On:
Athletic Fabrics That Have Been Treated Using “Wicking” Technology:
Many athletic fabrics created by brands such as: Lululemon, Under Armour, Nike, & Athleta use a technology called “wicking” to absorb sweat from your body. These fabrics are typically made from polyester-blended fabrics that have a chemical treatment to allow the perspiration to be pushed through the fabrics surface and evaporate. Using fabric softeners on these types of fabrics will leave them coated and stop the “wicking” process from working to absorb sweat.
Microfiber & Microsuede Fabrics:
The appeal of microfiber & microsuede fabrics is their ability to resist stains, provide durability & softness. Using a fabric softener on these materials can eliminate the electric static that makes microfiber effective against stains.
Egyptian Cotton & Terry Cloth:
These fabrics may be the most common fabrics people misuse fabric softener with. Your instinct is to always want soft towels and sheets, however, if they are made of ultra soft materials, using fabric softener will reduce the ability for these fabrics to absorb liquids: which is an important use for towels made of these fabrics.
Flame-Retardant Fabrics:
Fabrics made to be fire-retardant should be dry cleaned at your local Pilgrim Cleaners, or laundered according to the care labels. Avoid using any fabric softeners on these fabrics, as it will reduce their ability to be flame resistant.
