How to use fabric softener in a washing machine without a dispenser: If you don't have a dispenser in your washing machine, add in your fabric softener during the rinse cycle. Pour directly into the water, rather than on top of the clothes, to prevent the possibility of stains.
I have never used a dispenser for the fabric softener in a washing machine… so I always just add it while the machine is filling on the rinse cycle. You SHOULD be sure that there is plenty of water in the machine before adding it though, because when poured directly on clothes, some fabrics can stain from the softener.
For most of these models, a liquid fabric softener dispenser cup is incorporated into the design and included with the Top Load Washer. However, there are some Top Load Washers with a liquid fabric softener option that do not include a fabric softener dispenser cup.
Certain fabrics – think technical materials in your favourite running gear – are often better being washed without fabric conditioner in the first place. That's because conditioner can leave a residue that stops sweat from wicking away, or clogs up fabric pores to affect breathability.
If you prefer more soft and supple clothes and linens, stick to natural fiber fabrics. Splurge on higher quality fabrics and you'll still save money by skipping store-bought softeners- PLUS your clothes will last longer! You can also soften and reduce static with safe, eco-friendly alternatives.
Top-load washers typically have a fabric softener dispenser at the top of the agitator, in a dispenser drawer or in a tray on the top tub ring.
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry during the wash cycle. Baking soda can help break down detergent residues, leaving clothes softer.
The trick is knowing when to add fabric softener to the washing machine. It's important to add Gain during the rinse cycle because the wash cycle can clean away the fabric softener. Just be sure to pour it into water pockets, avoiding direct contact with clothes, to prevent any chance of stains.
When to put fabric softener in a top loader: Add the fabric softener during the rinse cycle in a top loader washing machine. Make sure to pour the fabric softener in the pockets of water and not directly onto the clothes to avoid staining.
There is a possibility that the fabric softener simply stayed in the drawer because you set your washing machine to a cycle that doesn't use fabric softener. Check the manual and repeat the wash on a different setting if needed.
Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6)
On models made before 2011, a fabric softener dispenser or cup can be added to most models that come without a dispenser. These models have a cap on the agitator which can be removed and replaced by the fabric softener dispenser. The GE Appliances part number for the fabric softener accessory is WH43X139.
The Kitchen Concoction: Baking Soda & Vinegar
With a few items found in your kitchen pantry, you can mix up your own natural fabric softener. All you need is water, baking soda and vinegar, plus a few drops of essential oils if you'd like it scented. Stir until mixed and add in one-part vinegar (ex: one-half cup).
Baking Soda: Baking soda is another natural alternative that can help soften fabrics and eliminate odors. Adding half a cup to one cup of baking soda to the wash cycle can help soften clothes and neutralize odors. Wool Dryer Balls: Wool dryer balls are a specific type of dryer ball made from natural wool fibers.
Unlike detergent, fabric softener shouldn't ever be put directly in the drum.
Detergents are designed to remove stains, so mixing them with fabric softener ingredients increases the chance of stains remaining on your clothes.
Remember, fabric softener is completely optional, and your garments will likely pop out of the dryer feeling fresh, clean, and soft without it. However, “For some, it might make doing their laundry a little more fun to use an extra product that smells very good and is colorful,” Fulford says.
A half cup of baking soda may also help soften your clothing, instead of using synthetic fabric softeners.
Vinegar, especially white vinegar, has been a go-to natural cleaning agent for generations. When used in laundry, it acts as a fabric softener deodorizer and can even help remove soap residue. It's a natural way to soften clothes without introducing additional chemicals.
The trick is knowing when to add fabric softener to the washing machine. It's important to add Downy during the rinse cycle, because the wash cycle can clean away the fabric softener. Just be sure to pour it into water pockets, avoiding direct contact with clothes, to prevent any chance of stains.