Within the sustainable lifestyle, one aspect that is highly emphasized is not using fabric softener in the washing machine and today we want to explain why and what alternatives there are. We do so within the framework of the week that we are dedicating to eko laundry.
On Monday we published a very comprehensive post in which we told you how to pre-treat, wash, dry and store your clothes sustainably . Visit our social media for more complementary information, such as a liquid soap recipe or tricks to remove stains with natural products. We wanted to talk about fabric softener in another post because the topic deserves its own space.
4 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD NOT USE FABRIC SOFTENER
Let's get down to business with the reasons why we recommend you stop using fabric softener:
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You avoid plastic packaging
Fabric softener is usually packaged in single-use plastic bottles . When it is used up, another bottle is purchased, generating more waste and wasting resources. In addition, the transportation of these large and heavy containers generates a lot of pollution resulting from their distribution from the place where they are manufactured to the homes.
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Ingredients harmful to the environment
Softeners contain chemicals that do not degrade easily , which is why they pollute the waters of rivers and oceans. They change the composition and quality of the waters, in which algae proliferate, preventing the survival of other species.
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Causes skin problems and sensory disturbances
Many conditions such as atopic skin or allergies and irritations are justified by the use of fabric softeners in clothing. It is advisable to avoid them, especially in the case of babies who, in addition, are born with a fully developed sense of smell and need, to ensure their well-being and optimal development, that their mother's smell is not altered.
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Damages tissues
The part of the programme where fabric softener is applied does not include rinsing, precisely to keep the good smell in the clothes. But this causes the fabric to remain impregnated in the clothes and this gradually deteriorates the fabrics . Clothes washed with fabric softener last less.
EKO ALTERNATIVES TO FABRIC SOFTENER
If you have been washing clothes using fabric softener all your life , you will probably find it difficult to get rid of this product all at once , so we are here to offer you some alternatives. However, the truth is that it is a product that does not need replacements if you adapt to it. I have not used any for a long time.
Fabric softener does two things: it softens fabrics and provides a nice smell. Let's look at alternatives to fulfill both functions:
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To soften clothes
- Cleaning vinegar : In the drawer, in the compartment for the fabric softener, you can put a little vinegar, which helps to soften the clothes. Don't worry about the smell. It disappears completely.
- Dryer balls : In the previous post we already talked about how we should avoid using a dryer for environmental reasons, but if for some reason you need to use a dryer, even occasionally, we urge you to use dryer balls, not only because they will significantly reduce energy consumption, but also because you will notice that the clothes come out much softer.
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To provide a good smell
- Laundry fragrances : These are mixtures of essential oils with very pleasant aromas that give your clothes a scent. You can put 10-15 drops in the fabric softener compartment or, directly, put about 5 drops on one of the clothes you are going to wash. You will see that the smell permeates all the clothes. Personally, I like this second option better, as the smell is more intense.
- Essential oils : These are used in exactly the same way as perfumes. But, in addition to choosing the scent you like best, you can use oils that have cleansing properties, such as lemon, tea tree or thyme. Or take advantage of the calming properties of lavender or mint during periods of your life when you are experiencing greater stress or anxiety.
After seeing the reasons and the alternatives, do you feel encouraged to stop using fabric softener?
