How to Make Homemade Liquid Fabric Softener

Discover the benefits of a homemade liquid fabric softener with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Save money, customize scents, and embrace an eco-friendly approach. Learn how to make your own fabric softener, control ingredients, and enjoy the advantages, from reduced chemicals to less impact on indoor air quality. Make laundry day a breeze with this cost-effective and customizable alternative to store-bought options.

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Homemade Liquid Fabric Softener Recipe

Making homemade liquid fabric softener is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought options. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups hair conditioner (choose a scent you like)
• 3 cups white vinegar
• 6 cups hot water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl or container, combine 2 cups of hair conditioner with 3 cups of white vinegar. Stir the mixture until the ingredients are well combined.
2. Add 6 cups of hot water to the conditioner and vinegar mixture. Stir until everything is dissolved and well incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into a large, clean storage container. Make sure the container has a lid for easy storage.
4. Before using the fabric softener, give the container a good shake to ensure that the ingredients are well mixed.
5. When doing laundry, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of your homemade fabric softener to the washing machine during the rinse cycle. You can adjust the amount based on your preferences and the size of the load.
6. Store the remaining fabric softener in a cool, dark place. Shake well before each use.

Notes:

This homemade fabric softener works well for most fabrics, but it’s advisable to test a small, inconspicuous area before using it on delicate or special fabrics.

The choice of hair conditioner will determine the scent of your fabric softener. Select a conditioner with a fragrance you enjoy.

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White vinegar helps to soften clothes and eliminate any residue. The vinegar smell will dissipate during the rinse cycle, leaving your clothes soft and fresh.

Adjust the quantity of conditioner and water based on your preferences and the size of the storage container.

DIY Liquid Fabric Softener Without Conditioner

Need a more natural recipe? Try this:

• 4 cups water
• 1/3 bar Fels Naptha, grated
• 1/2 cup washing soda
• 1/2 cup Borax
• 3 gallons water, plus 4 cups

Instructions:

1. Mix the grated soap in a saucepan with 4 cups of water. Heat on low until the soap is completely dissolved.
2. Add the soap solution to 3 gallons of water in a 5-gallon bucket.
3. Stir in the washing soda and Borax. Continue stirring until thickened.
4. Cover and allow to rest for 24 hours before using.

TIP: Get a paint-stirring attachment for your drill to make mixing easier.

What are the benefits of using a homemade fabric softener?

Using homemade liquid fabric softener offers several benefits, ranging from cost savings to environmental considerations.

Courtesy: Shutterstock

Here are some advantages of making and using your own fabric softener:

Cost Savings:

Homemade fabric softener is generally more cost-effective than commercial options.

You can buy ingredients in bulk and make larger quantities, saving money in the long run.

Customizable Scents:

You have the freedom to choose your preferred hair conditioner, allowing you to customize the scent of your fabric softener.

Reduced Chemicals:

Homemade fabric softeners often contain fewer harsh chemicals than some commercial brands, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.

Environmentally Friendly:

Making your own fabric softener at home reduces the need for purchasing and disposing of plastic bottles associated with commercial products.

This eco-friendly approach contributes to a reduction in plastic waste.

Control Over Ingredients:

You have control over the ingredients in your fabric softener, allowing you to choose natural and environmentally friendly components.

If you or your family members have skin sensitivities or allergies, you can tailor the ingredients to create a fabric softener that is gentler on the skin.

Simple and Quick to Make:

Homemade fabric softeners are easy to make, typically requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. 

Less Impact on Indoor Air Quality:

Homemade fabric softeners often have milder scents compared to some commercial products, reducing the impact on indoor air quality and making them a suitable choice for individuals sensitive to strong fragrances.

Educational Experience:

Making your own fabric softener can be an educational experience, helping you understand the properties of different ingredients and encouraging a DIY mindset for other household products.

While homemade fabric softeners offer these benefits, it’s important to note that individual preferences may vary. Some people might prefer the convenience and specific features of commercial products, while others appreciate the control and customization that homemade alternatives provide.