Why Fabric Softener Is Bad for Towels

Why Fabric Softener Is Bad for Towels and How to Keep Towels Soft Without It

Fabric softener is commonly used to keep laundry fresh, soft, and static-free, but it’s not the best choice for towels. Although fabric softener leaves clothes fluffy and fragrant, using it on towels can actually reduce their absorbency and make them feel stiff. For anyone who enjoys drying off with a soft, absorbent towel, understanding how fabric softener impacts towels—and how to keep towels soft without it—can make all the difference.

This guide explains why fabric softener isn’t suitable for towels, explores alternative methods to keep towels soft, and offers essential washing and drying tips to maintain towel quality.

Why You Should Avoid Fabric Softener on Towels

While fabric softener is excellent for most laundry items, it can negatively affect towels. Fabric softener often contains polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone-based ingredient that coats fabrics to make them feel soft. This silicone coating, however, reduces a towel’s absorbency by repelling water instead of absorbing it. Over time, fabric softener creates a greasy buildup on towel fibers, making them feel slippery rather than soft and diminishing their ability to dry effectively.

Dryer sheets can have a similar effect on towels, as they also contain PDMS. To keep towels absorbent and soft, it’s best to skip fabric softener and dryer sheets when washing and drying them. Below are some practical methods to help maintain plush, absorbent towels without fabric softener.

How to Keep Towels Soft and Absorbent Without Fabric Softener

1. Wash Towels Frequently but Separately
   Towels should be washed every three uses, as long as they’re properly hung to dry between uses. Hand towels should be washed daily or every other day to reduce germ spread. Frequent washing keeps towels fresh, but over-washing can reduce absorbency if towels aren’t rotated. Rotating towels and washing them separately from other laundry items can help them last longer. Additionally, new towels should be washed alone before their first use to remove any silicone coating applied during manufacturing, which can inhibit absorbency.
2. Hang Towels to Dry After Each Use
   Allowing towels to fully air-dry between uses helps prevent bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. Damp towels left in humid environments are more prone to mildew and musty odors. Hanging towels to dry properly reduces the risk of these issues, keeping towels fresher and safer for reuse.
3. Use Less Detergent and Wash in Cool Water
   Using too much detergent can leave residue on towels, making them feel scratchy. Opt for a smaller amount of detergent to reduce buildup. Warm or cool water is ideal for most towels, as hot water can damage cotton fibers. However, white towels can occasionally be washed in hot water to kill bacteria and keep them bright.
4. Dry Towels on Low Heat and Avoid Overloading the Dryer
   High dryer heat can damage cotton fibers and make towels feel stiff. Use a low heat setting to preserve the towels’ softness, and avoid overloading the dryer to allow for even drying. Shaking out towels before placing them in the dryer also helps fluff fibers for improved absorbency. Occasionally air-drying towels or using the dryer’s air-dry setting can further extend their life and prevent wear.
5. Try Vinegar or Baking Soda Instead of Fabric Softener
   Both vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural alternatives to fabric softener. Adding half a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle helps remove detergent buildup and keeps towels soft. Baking soda can also be added during washing to loosen fibers and remove odors. For colored towels, vinegar is preferable, while baking soda is great for whitening white towels. Avoid using bleach with vinegar, as it can produce harmful fumes.
6. Replace Dryer Sheets with Natural Alternatives
   Dryer sheets can leave an oily residue on towels, so consider using wool dryer balls, tennis balls, or aluminum foil instead. Wool dryer balls soften towels and can be scented with essential oils. Tennis balls reduce static and prevent towels from clumping, while aluminum foil balls help minimize static cling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does fabric softener reduce towel absorbency?
Fabric softener contains silicone-based ingredients that coat towel fibers. This coating repels water, reducing the towel’s ability to absorb moisture effectively.

2. How often should I wash my towels?
It’s best to wash bath towels after three uses if they’re properly dried between uses. Hand towels should be washed daily or every other day to prevent bacteria buildup.

3. Can I use dryer sheets on towels?
Dryer sheets aren’t recommended for towels because they contain similar silicone-based ingredients that reduce absorbency. Natural alternatives like wool dryer balls work better for keeping towels soft.

4. Will vinegar make my towels smell?
No, vinegar won’t leave a lingering odor on your towels. Instead, it deodorizes fabrics by eliminating bacteria and detergent residue, leaving towels fresh.

5. How can I keep white towels looking bright?
Baking soda is an effective natural whitener for white towels. Adding it to the wash can help keep white towels bright without damaging the fibers.

Conclusion

Using fabric softener on towels might seem like a good idea, but its silicone-based formula can actually make towels less absorbent and less effective over time. By skipping fabric softener and dryer sheets and opting for natural alternatives like vinegar or baking soda, you can keep towels soft, fluffy, and absorbent for longer. Simple washing and drying practices—like using cool water, low dryer heat, and regular towel rotation—further ensure that your towels stay fresh, clean, and ready for every use.