Here are the top 7 methods to soften your clothes:
- 1. Liquid Fabric Softener
- 2. Dryer Sheets
- 3. Wool Dryer Balls
- 4. Hang Dry
- 5. Distilled White Vinegar
- 6. Epsom Salt
- 7. Aluminum Foil
We’ve all been there—pulling on a sweater or sliding into your favorite jeans, only to feel like you’ve been wrapped in sandpaper. Scratchy, stiff clothes are the unwelcome reminder that doing your laundry isn’t just about smelling great; it’s about feeling great too.
But don’t worry—your wardrobe isn’t doomed to be an endless itch-fest. There are plenty of easy ways to turn your laundry from rough and rigid to soft and smooth.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven ways to soften your clothes. From tried-and-true methods like fabric softener to borderline genius hacks involving vinegar and aluminum foil, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Fabric Softener
Liquid fabric softener (AKA fabric conditioner) is by far the easiest way to soften your clothes. It coats your fabric fibers with a thin layer of conditioning agents during the wash cycle, making them softer to the touch. You’ll notice that blankets and towels feel fluffier and sweaters feel cozier. Some fabric softeners—like Laundry Sauce’s Performance Fabric Softener—even help maintain your clothes’ color vibrance.
Think of fabric softener like skincare for your wardrobe—it smooths rough spots and reduces static cling.
Best For: Everyday wear, towels, and bedding. Avoid on activewear or anything labeled "moisture-wicking" since it can reduce activewear’s ability to breathe.
How to Use:
- 1. Measure the recommended amount based on your load size.
- 2. Pour it into the fabric softener dispenser, or if you don’t have a dispenser, pour it directly into the wash during the rinse cycle.
- 3. Wash and dry as usual. Voilà—softness achieved.
2. Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are the laundry world's multi-tasking overachievers. They soften clothes, reduce static, and leave your clothes with a luxurious scent—if you’re using Laundry Sauce. Our dryer sheets are infused with sophisticated scents like Australian Sandalwood, French Saffron, and Italian Bergamot so you can soften your clothes and smell irresistible doing it.
Best For: Cotton blends, synthetics, and casual wear. Avoid on microfiber towels—dryer sheets can reduce their absorbency.
How to Use:
- 1. Place a dryer sheet (or two, for larger loads) into the dryer with your wet clothes.
- 2. Run the dryer as usual.
- 3. Bask in the softness when your clothes are done.
3. Wool Dryer Balls
Wool dryer balls are like the cool kid at the laundry party. They’re reusable, eco-friendly, and make your clothes softer by gently separating fabric in the dryer, allowing more air to circulate. Bonus: They cut down drying time and reduce wrinkles too.
Best For: All fabric types, especially bulky items like comforters.
How to Use:
- 1. Add 3-6 dryer balls to your dryer, depending on load size.
- 2. Optionally, add a few drops of essential oil to the balls for a subtle scent.
- 3. Dry as usual and enjoy the fluffiest clothes you’ve ever felt.
4. Hang Dry
Sometimes the simplest methods are the best. Air drying, especially on a breezy day, can leave clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh. Pro tip: Use fabric spray to help prevent wrinkles from forming while your clothes dry.
Best For: Delicate items, knitwear, synthetic fabrics, and anything you don’t want to shrink.
How to Use:
- 1. Hang your clothes on a line or drying rack.
- 2. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to prevent wrinkles.
- 3. Let the wind and sun do their thing.
5. Distilled White Vinegar
Vinegar can work as a natural fabric softener in a pinch. Its acidity breaks down residue that causes stiffness and softens fabric fibers—but it doesn’t have nearly the same softening effect as liquid fabric softener.
Best For: Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and denim. Avoid on delicate or dry-clean-only items.
How to Use:
- 1. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to your washer’s fabric softener dispenser.
- 2. Wash and dry as usual.
- 3. Don’t worry—the vinegar smell disappears as your clothes dry.
6. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt can help soften clothes by breaking down fiber bonds and minimizing static cling when you add it to the wash cycle. However, some experts advise against using Epsom salt on laundry day since it can potentially harden your water.
Best For: Heavier fabrics like jeans or hoodies.
How to Use:
- 1. Mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil.
- 2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture to your washer’s drum.
- 3. Wash and dry your clothes as usual.
7. Aluminum Foil
Yes, aluminum foil. When balled up and tossed in the dryer, it helps reduce static electricity, which can make clothes feel stiff.
Best For: Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon.
How to Use:
- 1. Roll a sheet of foil into a ball about the size of a tennis ball.
- 2. Toss it into the dryer with your clothes.
- 3. Run the dryer and enjoy softer, static-free laundry.
Common Questions About Softening Your Clothes
Wondering why your favorite hoodie feels more like sandpaper these days? Don’t sweat it—we’ve got answers. Here’s everything you need to know about banishing scratchy, stiff clothes and keeping your laundry feeling soft, fresh, and luxurious.
Why Do My Clothes Feel Scratchy?
Scratchiness is usually caused by detergent buildup, hard water, or over-drying. It’s not you—it’s your laundry routine.
Why Are My Clothes Stiff?
Stiffness happens when fabric fibers dry out or when soap residue builds up. Adjusting your wash routine can make a huge difference.
How Can You Make Your Clothes Soft Without Fabric Softener?
Wool dryer balls are your best bet to soften clothes without fabric softener. They’re natural, effective, and don’t leave any residue on your clothes.
Does Vinegar Actually Soften Clothes?
Yes—vinegar can help break down minerals and detergent residue that make clothes stiff.
We Made the World’s Best-Smelling Fabric Softener
For almost a century, fabric softener has smelled insanely boring. What’s the point of having soft clothes if you walk around smelling like a synthetic flowerbed? That’s why we made Laundry Sauce: the world’s best-smelling fabric softener.
Crafted with elevated fragrances like Australian Sandalwood and French Saffron, our formula enhances softness, reduces wrinkles, and preserves fabric quality, while ensuring your clothes smell irresistible.
Pro Tip: Save 15% when you subscribe.
