Fabric softener on bed sheets

There are many reasons why we reach for fabric softener come laundry day. Habit, for one. But we also want our clothes and linens to feel soft and come out wrinkle-free. For some, fabric softener is as essential as detergent.

But have you ever considered what fabric softener actually does and how it affects each item you send through the washing machine?

Best fabric softener for bed sheets

To help you understand exactly how fabric softener works, we're sharing a few things you should know about this laundry staple.

4 Easy Ways to Make Fabric Softener

What Does Fabric Softener Do?

Fabric softener is a laundry product designed to improve the feel, texture, and overall softness of fabrics by depositing a thin layer of chemicals onto the fibers during the washing process, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids.

"This coating reduces friction between the fibers, making the fabric feel softer and smoother to the touch," she says.

Pros and Cons of Using Fabric Softener

Before using fabric

should you use fabric softener on linen

should you use fabric softener on bedsheets