The 7 Most Non-Toxic Fabric Softener Options In 2024

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On the hunt for the best non-toxic fabric softeners to keep your clothes soft, fresh, and free from harmful chemicals? We’ve got some great options for you!

Whether you’re looking for a plant-based liquid option, eco-friendly dryer sheets, or reusable options like wool dryer balls, these fabric softeners are ready to give your laundry routine a healthy overhaul.

The best non-toxic fabric softeners, in a nutshell…

Rustic Strength (Best organic non-GMO fabric softener)
Dropps Unscented Fabric Softener (Best pod-based fabric softener)
Biokleen Dryer Sheets (Best naturally-scented dryer sheets)
Dirty Labs Wool Dryer Balls (Best reusable option)
Vinegar Fabric Softener (Best DIY 100% Non-Toxic Fabric Softener)

As you fold your freshly laundered clothes, you can’t help but notice the lingering scent of your fabric softener. It’s on your sheets, your favorite sweater, and your favorite fluffy towels. It’s a familiar smell that you’ve probably grown accustomed to over the years.

But that fresh laundry scent you love is not as innocent as it seems. Conventional fabric softeners often contain flowery fragrances that are actually composed of a blend of chemicals. These chemicals can have harmful effects on both your health and the environment.

If you were to consider ditching just one item from your laundry routine, we’d suggest making it your conventional fabric softener. When it comes to toxic chemicals, it’s probably your laundry room’s worst offender.

But don’t fret because if you’re wondering whether you can achieve the same softness and freshness without all those toxic chemicals, you can!

There are a few great non-toxic fabric softeners making their way onto the market that not only cleanse and soften but also safeguard your health and protect the planet.

By choosing a non-toxic fabric softener, you’re guarding yourself and your family against hazardous chemicals like phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and quaternary ammonium compounds.

In this guide, we’ll go into everything you need to know about switching to a non-toxic fabric softener. From the science behind how they work, why they’re better for your health, and why they are better for the environment. We’ll even introduce you to some of our favorite non-toxic brands for softer, cleaner laundry.

So, whether you’re a health-conscious parent, an environmentally-minded consumer, or simply someone who wants the best for their health, keep reading to discover a whole new way to soften your laundry. We think you’ll be surprised how such a small change in your laundry routine can have a big impact on your health and the environment.

What toxic chemicals are hiding in most fabric softener?

The best reason to switch to a non toxic fabric softener is to avoid toxic chemicals that can cause some pretty scary health issues, like:

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATS)

Commonly used in fabric softeners for their excellent fabric softening and anti-static properties. They effectively coat fabric fibers, making them feel softer and reducing static cling. However, despite their effectiveness, QUATS have been linked to several health concerns.

Inhaling QUATS released from treated fabrics can lead to respiratory irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing. More alarmingly, exposure to QUATS has been associated with the development and exacerbation of asthma in both children and adults.

Phthalates

Phthalates refer to a group of chemicals commonly used in fabric softeners as solvents for fragrances. They help to disperse and stabilize scents in the product, making them last longer on clothes. However, phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormone function, leading to a range of health issues.

Exposure to phthalates has been linked to reproductive and developmental problems, particularly in males. Studies have shown that phthalates can decrease sperm count and quality, leading to infertility.

In pregnant women, phthalate exposure has been associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and low birth weight.

Phthalates have also been linked to neurodevelopmental issues in children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and lower IQ scores.

Synthetic Musks

Artificial fragrances are used in fabric softeners to give clothes a pleasant, long-lasting scent. These chemicals are designed to mimic the scent of natural musk, which is derived from certain animals and is expensive to obtain. Synthetic musks are cheaper and more readily available, making them a popular choice for manufacturers.

However, synthetic musks have been linked to several health concerns. They can bioaccumulate in the body over time, as they are not easily metabolized and can be stored in fatty tissues.

Some research suggests that these chemicals may be carcinogenic, although more studies are needed to confirm this link.

Additionally, synthetic musks have been shown to disrupt hormone function, mimicking estrogen in the body, which can lead to hormonal imbalances, early puberty in girls, reduced sperm count in men, and an increased risk of certain hormone-related cancers.

They can also trigger allergic reactions, causing skin irritation, rashes, and respiratory problems.

VOCs

Many commonly used fabric softeners contain harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals easily turn into gases or vapors at room temperature and can be emitted from various products, including fabric softeners. VOCs have been linked to adverse health effects such as neurological damage and cancer.

During the laundry process and when wearing clothes treated with fabric softeners, these VOCs can be released into the air. They can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin, potentially causing respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, and other health issues.

But that’s not all. Preservatives like formaldehyde-releasing chemicals are known carcinogens and can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Even the dyes used in these products can be problematic, with some, like D&C violet 2, linked to cancer.

Best non-toxic fabric softeners in 2024

1. Rustic Strength

Shop Rustic Strength

Discover the true softening power of nature with Rustic Strength’s Organic, Non-GMO Fabric Softener.

Crafted from renewable, plant-derived ingredients, this fabric softener offers a list of benefits that go beyond just softening your clothes. It loosens soap buildup and dirt, reducing static and preventing lint and pet hair from clinging to your clothes.

The formula even helps remove tough minerals like aluminum chloride, zinc, and salt, keeping your garments looking and feeling their best.

Unlike conventional chemical softeners that can clog up your washing machine with toxic residue, Rustic Strength’s fabric softener keeps your machine fresh and working like new. It’s also safe for regular and high-efficiency (HE) washing machines.

Its antibacterial properties make it an ideal deodorizer for your clothes, ensuring a fresh, clean scent without any harsh chemicals.

It’s especially gentle on babies’ sensitive skin, as it’s made without harsh chemicals or added scents that can cause irritation.

Price

$20.00

certifications

Acetic Acid (vinegar, derived from sugar cane), Charcoal Filtered Deionized Water (water)

location/shipping

United States,

2. Biokleen Dryer Sheets

Shop Biokleen

These citrus-scented eco-friendly dryer sheets from Biokleen harness the power of natural, plant-based ingredients to soften your fabrics and reduce static cling.

From delicate linen shirts to plush cotton towels, just one sheet is all you need for the softest, best-smelling laundry.

Indulge in the uplifting aroma of natural sweet orange peel oil, infused into every wash. Biokleen uses only plant-based softening ingredients to ensure your clothes come out soft, static-free, and ready to be worn.

Biokleen dryer sheets are made in the USA with all biodegradable ingredients. And they never test any of their products on animals.

Price

$9.99

ingredients

Dipalmitoylyethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Cellulose, Sweet Orange Peel Oil Terpeneless, and Water

location/shipping

United States, ships worldwide.

3. Dropps

Shop Dropps

Experience a new level of softness and freshness with Dropps’ Unscented Fabric Softener. These pods will leave your clothes, towels, and active wear so soft that you’ll want to cuddle up with them after every wash.

Dropps’ mineral-powered formula uses bentonite to soften and freshen your laundry without leaving behind that dreaded gummy residue. This residue-free approach ensures that your clothes remain soft, fluffy, and comfortable against your skin.

We love how easy the pods are to use. Just toss them in the wash along with your favorite detergent, and let the mineral magic happen. The pods work effectively in all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency (HE) models.

In addition to its gentle, effective formula, Dropps is committed to creating cruelty-free and vegan products. The pods are never tested on animals and the packaging is 100% recyclable.

Price

$25.00

ingredients

Sodium chloride, bentonite, polyvinyl alcohol

location/shipping

United States, ships to Canada.

4. Sonett

Shop Sonett

Best laundry softener (yes, before drying!)

Sonett’s Organic Laundry Softener is specially designed to remove calcium from your water.

This allows your detergent to work more effectively, giving you the best possible clean for your laundry. This will also help you save money on laundry detergent since you’ll need less.

The formula is simple yet effective, relying on a blend of zeolite, sodium carbonate, and sodium citrate to soften your laundry and boost your detergent’s performance

Sonett is committed to using only ingredients that are absolutely necessary.

They stay away from fillers, phosphates, and other petroleum based ingredients like phosphonates, NTA, and EDTA. This means you can trust that your laundry is being cleaned effectively without any harmful chemicals.

Price

$12.99

ingredients

Zeolite, sodium carbonate, sodium citrate

location/shipping

Germany, ships worldwide.

Best DIY & natural ways to soften clothes

5. Dirty Labs

Shop Dirty Labs

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly and sustainable way to soften your laundry and reduce drying time, Dirty Labs Wool Dryer Balls are definitely worth considering.

They are made from 100% New Zealand wool and offer a nontoxic, biodegradable alternative to traditional dryer sheets and fabric softeners.

They fluff and separate laundry as it tumbles in the dryer. This allows hot air to circulate more evenly, reducing drying time and helping to minimize static and wrinkles.

Not only does this save you time and energy, but it also means your clothes will come out looking and feeling fresher.

Price

$18.00

ingredients

100% New Zealand Wool

location/shipping

United States

6. DIY White Vinegar Fabric Softener

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a container or bottle.
Add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil, if desired, for a pleasant scent.
Use 1/4 to 1/2 cup of this mixture in the fabric softener dispenser of your washing machine during the rinse cycle.
The vinegar helps remove soap residue, softens clothes, and reduces static cling.

7. Epsom Salt Fabric Softener

In a large container, mix 2 cups of Epsom salt, 1/2 cup of baking soda, and 40 drops of your favorite essential oil.
Store the mixture in an airtight container.
Add 3 tablespoons of the mixture to your washing machine with each load of laundry.
The Epsom salt and baking soda work together to soften clothes and neutralize odors.

Do non-toxic fabric softeners work on all types of fabrics?

Non-toxic fabric softeners are generally safe for most types of fabrics, but there are some exceptions where you should avoid using them:

Fabrics to avoid using fabric softener on

Moisture-wicking or athletic wear: Fabric softener can coat the fibers and reduce their ability to wick away moisture.
Water-resistant fabrics: Softener can affect the water-repellency of these fabrics.
Microfiber: The coating from fabric softener can clog the fibers and reduce their effectiveness.
Down-filled items: Softener can reduce the fluffiness and insulation properties of down.
Silk: Silk is a delicate fabric that can be damaged by the chemicals in fabric softener.

Fabrics safe to use fabric softener on

Cotton
Linen
Towels
Sheets
Most synthetic fabrics

Pro Tip: Always check the care label of your garments before using fabric softener to ensure compatibility. If you are unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.

Are non-toxic fabric softeners as effective as conventional ones?

Non-toxic fabric softeners can be as effective as conventional ones in terms of softening clothes and reducing static cling. However, their effectiveness varies depending on the specific product and its ingredients.

Conventional Fabric Softeners

Pros: Often very effective at softening, reducing wrinkles, and adding fragrance.

Cons: Can contain harmful chemicals like quats and fragrances that can trigger allergies and other health issues. Can also contribute to environmental pollution.

Non-Toxic Fabric Softeners:

Pros: Made with plant-based or naturally derived ingredients, generally safer for people and the environment. Some can be as effective as conventional ones.

Cons: May not be as effective at reducing wrinkles or adding fragrance as conventional ones. Can sometimes be more expensive.

Can I use non-toxic fabric softener in HE washing machines?

Yes, you can generally use non-toxic fabric softener in HE washing machines. Most non-toxic fabric softeners are designed to be compatible with both standard and HE machines. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind–

Check the product label: Always read the instructions on the non-toxic fabric softener bottle to confirm compatibility with HE machines.

Use the correct amount: HE washing machines use less water, so it’s important to follow the recommended dosage for HE machines on the product label. Overusing fabric softener can lead to buildup in the machine.

Consider alternatives: Some non-toxic fabric softeners are designed specifically for HE machines and may perform better than standard ones. You can also explore alternatives like wool dryer balls or vinegar, which are naturally compatible with HE washers.

This has been your complete guide to the top non-toxic fabric softeners for 2024!

Making the switch to a non-toxic fabric softener is easier than you might think, and the benefits are truly amazing! By choosing a healthier alternative, you’re not just taking care of your cozy clothes and linens – you’re also showing love to your family, your skin, and our beautiful planet.

With so many incredible options out there, like the dreamy scents from Biokleen or the all-natural goodness of Molly’s Suds, you’ll never miss those harsh chemicals. And hey, if you’re feeling a little creative, why not try making your own fabric softener with a simple DIY recipe?

Do you have any tips for keeping your laundry clean and soft? Share them in the comments. We love hearing from you!