Life with Fabric Softeners

Our modern living has created these so called “convenient” products and marketing has been extremely successful in convincing us that we need them desperately. One such item is fabric softeners with their concoction of chemicals….from benzyl/ethyl acetate, chloroform, ethanol, pentane, a-terpineol, and on and on. Many of the chemicals found are neurotoxins, carcinogens and can make you nauseous, headachy and drowsy or develop a rash. They usually smell “nice” and we do not realize that these artificial fragrances also are extremely unhealthy; the “nice” smell is also necessary in these softeners in order to cover up the heavy smell of the chemicals used. Fabric softeners also can decrease the absorbency of cloth diapers. They are definitely not good for pet blankets. These chemicals adhere to the laundry and are against your skin ready for absorption for as long as you have those clothes on and as well you can inhale the chemicals for the duration of the day. ! Dryer sheets when heated become volatile and now you breathe the toxins from the dryer; much is vented out into the world for everyone to react to. If you must have softness in your laundry you can add baking soda or vinegar to the wash cycle, use dryer balls (like felted wool), or purchase a more natural fabric softener without the long list of toxic chemicals. The sun is the best way to dry laundry. It does make the fabric rougher and not as soft. But this makes it perfect for towels as now you have a natural way to brush/stimulate your skin, exfoliate, save money, naturally sanitize, improve your health and respect the environment.