How to Make DIY Homemade Fabric Softener
Say Goodbye to Harsh Chemicals with This Homemade Fabric Softener
Tired of spending a fortune on store-bought softeners packed with mystery ingredients? You’re not alone! This homemade fabric softener made with simple pantry staples like white vinegar and conditioner is gentle on clothes, skin, and your budget.
Looking for a natural fabric softener that’s vinegar-free?
Try our baking soda fabric softener recipe — gentle, effective, and made with simple ingredients from your pantry.
- Why You’ll Love It
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- How to Use
- No-Conditioner Version
- Reusable Dryer Sheets
- Fabric Softener Crystals
- FAQs
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Fabric Softener
If you’re the kind of mama who reads ingredient labels like novels and believes in the magic of mason jars and moonlight, this one’s for you. This homemade fabric softener fits right into your collection of natural cleaning recipes — made with love, not lab coats.
Whether you’re deep into DIY green cleaning or just dipping your toes into natural laundry tips, this recipe is as gentle on the planet as it is on your little one’s skin. Plus, it’s the queen of frugal living tips: just a few simple ingredients, big savings, and no plastic jugs piling up in the laundry room.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by making large batches that last for weeks.
- Customizable: Add your favorite essential oils for a personal touch or keep it unscented.
- Eco-Friendly: No harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances harming the planet.
- Gentle on Skin: Perfect for sensitive skin, babies, and allergy sufferers.
- Easy to Make: Takes less than 10 minutes — no special tools needed.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white vinegar
- 1 bottle of inexpensive hair conditioner
- 6 cups hot water
- Optional: a few drops of essential oils
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the hot water and conditioner until the mixture is smooth. Tip: Stir gently — avoid shaking to prevent foaming.
- Slowly pour in the white vinegar and continue stirring until fully combined.
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils, if desired, and stir once more.
- Transfer the mixture into an airtight container or recycled fabric softener bottle for easy dispensing.
How to Use Your DIY Fabric Softener
- Add about 2 tablespoons per small load or 1/4 cup for larger loads into your washing machine’s fabric softener dispenser.
- For an alternative method, soak a washcloth in the softener, wring it out, and toss it into the dryer as a reusable dryer sheet.
Note: Avoid using this fabric softener on clothes with elastic (like leggings or bras), as vinegar may degrade elasticity over time.
Make Your Own Homemade Fabric Softener
Learn how to make your own homemade fabric softener that's just pennies to make and requires three ingredients, probably already in your home.
Materials
- 3 cups of vinegar (opt for white vinegar)
- 1 bottle of conditioner (I used the least expensive I could find)
- 6 cups of hot water
- a big bowl
- A storage container (it makes about 3 quarts)
- a few drops of essential oils (optional)
Instructions
- If you have hard water, I recommend using spring water or distilled water.
- Add the water and hair conditioner to a large mixing bowl or container, and stir to combine until the conditioner is completely dissolved. (You don't want to shake it; it will cause foaming.)
- Add the vinegar and mix well.
- Add a few drops of lavender essential oil or your favorite essential oil (optional).
- Store in an airtight container--or spray bottle.
Notes
Add 2 tablespoons per load directly into the fabric softener dispenser on your washer for smaller loads, or 1/4 cup for larger loads.
I use a Downy Ball ;)
Another great way to use this is to pour 1/4 cup of the fabric softener onto a clean washcloth, wring it to eliminate exess, and toss it in your dryer like a dryer sheet with your loads of laundry wash cycle!
Bonus Tip: Try a Baking Soda Fabric Softener!
If you’re looking for a vinegar-free option, baking soda makes a fantastic natural fabric softener on its own.
Simple Baking Soda Softener Recipe
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 2 cups warm water
- A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
Mix in a large jar until dissolved. Shake before each use, and add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup to the rinse cycle for soft, fresh-smelling laundry.
Why it works: Baking soda helps regulate the pH of your laundry load, which can naturally soften fabrics and neutralize odors.
Want to keep things versatile? Alternate between this and the vinegar-based version depending on your laundry needs or scent preferences.
Looking for a No-Conditioner Version?
If you prefer to skip conditioner altogether, try this vinegar and baking soda alternative:
- 6 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup baking soda
- 15 drops of essential oil (optional)
Combine ingredients in a large bowl and allow the fizzing to subside before transferring to a storage container. Shake well before each use.
How to Make Reusable Dryer Sheets
Say goodbye to disposable dryer sheets by making your own! Simply soak cotton or flannel strips in your DIY fabric softener, wring out the excess liquid, and let them air dry. Toss one into the dryer for each load and reuse up to 10 times. This is a sustainable, budget-friendly option that smells wonderful and softens clothes naturally.
How to Make Fabric Softener Crystals
Fabric softener crystals are a great natural alternative that’s mess-free and easy to use. Mix together:
- 4 cups Epsom salt
- 40 drops of your favorite essential oil
Combine in a bowl, then store in an airtight container. Use 1–2 tablespoons per laundry load for long-lasting softness and a fresh scent.
FAQs
Is this safe for sensitive skin?
Yes! This recipe is gentle and free from harsh chemicals. You can skip essential oils or choose hypoallergenic options for extra-sensitive skin.
Can I use this in HE washers?
Absolutely. Because it’s low-sudsing, it’s perfectly safe for high-efficiency washing machines.
Will the scent last on clothes?
The scent lasts best when you add essential oils. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
Does vinegar harm elastic fabrics?
Vinegar can weaken elastic over time, so avoid frequent use on stretchy garments like leggings or bras.
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