DIY Natural Fabric Softener
Posted on January 14 2026
I love this super simple yet incredibly effective fabric softener that can be added straight to the final rinse or poured into your machine’s fabric softener dispenser. It leaves clothes beautifully soft, helps remove lingering chemicals and residues (especially from new clothing), and is gentle on both the planet and your wallet.
It’s particularly wonderful for towels, bedding, children’s clothes, and anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
DIY Simple Natural Fabric Softener
Ingredients
1 cup white vinegar
10–15 drops essential oil
My favourites are ...
Lavender (calming)
Bergamot (uplifting)
Lemon or lime (fresh)
Eucalyptus (great for towels & sports gear)
How to make it
Mix in a glass jar or bottle
Shake gently before each use
Use ½ cup per average sized load
Pour straight into the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine
Wash as normal
Why it works
Softens fibres naturally by removing detergent residue
Eliminates odours (without leaving a vinegar smell — promise!)
Helps prevent static
Safe for septic systems
No coating left on fabrics (unlike commercial softeners)
This can be used on everything, including towels and sheets.