Fabric Softener Stains

Fabric softener is a wonderful thing! It reduces wrinkles (especially when line-drying), it helps to repel stains, and it leaves your clothing with a nice fresh fragrance. Although fabric softener is a fabulous product, it should not be used on all of your laundry.

In fact, some manufacturer’s care labels specifically state that you should not use fabric softener when laundering their garments. Why? Because, when used on certain fabric blends, you could be left with unpleasant results such as oily looking spots or discoloration.

Do not use fabric softener on athletic wear.

Why? Many manufacturers of nylon, spandex, or synthetic blend athletic wear, do not recommend the use of fabric softeners because of the film that is left on the garment. That stain blocking residue left by fabric softeners is something we would normally be grateful for, however it can interfere with the sweat-wicking, sweat absorption properties of the sports-wear fabrics – on a hot day, it could leave you downright uncomfortable.

How to get rid of fabric softener stains if they happen is fairly simple. If it is a small stain, just re-wet the fabric and rub a bar of mild soap on the spot. Rinse and rewash. If you are dealing with a large fabric softener stain, a little more laundry help may be needed. Try pre-treating the stain with your favorite liquid detergent containing bleach alternative and then wash it again with more of the same detergent in the warmest water allowable according to the care label.

How to avoid staining in the first place? Do not overfill the washer with clothes – leave room for items to circulate. If you are really worried – dilute the fabric softener before adding it to the wash.

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