Soft and fluffy laundry revolution: how to add fabric softener without a dispenser and save your clothes
What To Know
- Apply a small amount of fabric softener directly to a clean sponge or cloth.
- Add a few drops of fabric softener to a clean bath towel.
- The amount of fabric softener you use will depend on the size of your load and the desired level of softness.
Fabric softeners play a crucial role in keeping our clothes soft, fresh, and static-free. However, what do you do when your washing machine doesn’t have a fabric softener dispenser? Don’t fret! There are several effective ways to add fabric softener to your laundry even without a dedicated dispenser.
The Manual Method
Materials:
- Fabric softener
- Measuring cup
- Clean, empty plastic bottle
Steps:
1. Measure the desired amount of fabric softener into the measuring cup.
2. Pour the fabric softener into the empty plastic bottle.
3. Add water to the bottle, filling it to about 3/4 full.
4. Shake the bottle vigorously to mix the fabric softener and water.
During Laundry Cycle:
1. Add your detergent to the washing machine.
2. During the final rinse cycle, pause the machine and pour the fabric softener mixture into the drum.
3. Resume the rinse cycle.
The Washer Ball Technique
Materials:
- Fabric softener
- Tennis ball or dryer ball
- Clean sock
Steps:
1. Place a tennis ball or dryer ball into a clean sock.
2. Add a few drops of fabric softener to the sock.
3. Tie the sock securely around the ball.
During Laundry Cycle:
1. Add the sock-ball to the washing machine along with your clothes.
2. The ball will agitate the fabric softener, releasing it into the water.
The Direct Application Method
Materials:
- Fabric softener
- Clean sponge or cloth
Steps:
1. Apply a small amount of fabric softener directly to a clean sponge or cloth.
2. Wipe the sponge or cloth over the damp clothes in the washing machine drum.
During Laundry Cycle:
1. Add your detergent to the washing machine.
2. During the final rinse cycle, pause the machine and apply the fabric softener as described above.
3. Resume the rinse cycle.
The Bath Towel Trick
Materials:
- Fabric softener
- Clean bath towel
Steps:
1. Add a few drops of fabric softener to a clean bath towel.
2. Place the towel in the washing machine along with your clothes.
3. The towel will absorb the fabric softener and release it into the water.
During Laundry Cycle:
1. Add your detergent to the washing machine.
2. Add the bath towel.
3. Run the regular wash cycle.
The Laundry Vinegar Solution
Materials:
- White vinegar
- Measuring cup
- Clean, empty plastic bottle
Steps:
1. Measure 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the measuring cup.
2. Pour the vinegar into the empty plastic bottle.
3. Add water to the bottle, filling it to about 3/4 full.
4. Shake the bottle vigorously to mix the vinegar and water.
During Laundry Cycle:
1. Add your detergent to the washing machine.
2. During the final rinse cycle, pause the machine and pour the vinegar mixture into the drum.
3. Resume the rinse cycle.
Note: Vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener but does not provide the same scent as commercial fabric softeners.
The Final Rinse
Once you’ve added the fabric softener using one of the methods above, complete the laundry cycle as usual. Your clothes will emerge soft, fresh, and static-free, even without a dedicated fabric softener dispenser.
FAQ
Q: How much fabric softener should I use?
A: The amount of fabric softener you use will depend on the size of your load and the desired level of softness. Generally, use 1 to 2 tablespoons of fabric softener per medium-sized load.
Q: Can I use fabric softener in every load of laundry?
A: No. Fabric softeners should not be used on certain fabrics, such as microfiber, athletic wear, and flame-retardant materials.
Q: Is it okay to use vinegar as a fabric softener?
A: Yes. White vinegar is a natural fabric softener that can be used in place of commercial fabric softeners. It does not provide the same scent, but it is effective at softening clothes.