If you’ve ever searched for a “natural” fabric softener recipe, you may have noticed a lot of DIY versions floating around the internet with rubbing alcohol, baking soda, or other random additions. 🚫 Let’s clear that up…
👉 Why not rubbing alcohol?
Alcohol is a petrochemical and can be harsh on fabrics, drying out fibers over time. It’s also flammable and adds unnecessary fumes to your laundry—exactly what we’re trying to avoid when going toxin-free.
👉 Why not baking soda?
While baking soda is great for cleaning, it doesn’t actually “soften” clothes. In fact, when mixed with vinegar (a common combo), it neutralizes the very properties that help soften and freshen! So, you end up with… salty water. 🧂 Not helpful.
🌿 So what really works?
Try my DIY combo…
Young Living’s Thieves Fruit & Veggie Soak: This may surprise you, but it helps break down detergent residue and rinse away buildup that makes clothes stiff. Think of it as a gentle, plant-based rinse aid for your laundry.
Vinegar: This is the classic, time-tested softener! Vinegar dissolves leftover soap and minerals that can cling to fabric fibers. It fluffs them back up naturally—leaving towels softer and clothes fresher (don’t worry, the vinegar smell disappears once dry).
🫧 No harsh chemicals. No fake fragrances. Just soft, fresh, clean laundry you can actually feel good about.
I mean…who likes stiff towels & toxic softeners? And help a friend to detox their home too by including a batch in a housewarming gift basket, along with laundry soap, Citrus Fresh essential oil, and a bag of wool dryer balls!