The 10 Best Fabric Softeners of 2024
Fabric softeners can transform your clothes and linens into fluffy softness, reduce static cling, and even eliminate wrinkles. From liquid formulas to dryer sheets and fragrance-free to fresh-as-a-daisy scents, there are plentiful options to upgrade your next laundry day.
If you don’t have allergies or sensitivities, Laurie Fulford, a laundry expert at Poplin Laundry, recommends scented fabric softeners, as they add fresh-from-the-dryer fragrance to your laundry. “Take the time and smell which one you like best because most fabric softeners have a very strong, lasting scent on your clothes,” she says. “You want to make sure you are happy with what you are washing your clothes in.
To find the best fabric softeners, we researched popular products while comparing factors like type, ingredients, scent, size, and price. We also consulted Fulford for her expert insight on what to consider when shopping for and using fabric softeners.
Seventh Generation Fabric Softener Sheets, Free and Clear at Amazon
$28
Downy Wrinkle Guard Liquid Fabric Conditioner at Amazon
$25
$21
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Gain-Original-Fabric-Softener-fe92527865874bfdaf3795932f42ebdf.jpg)
-
This bottle can do up to 60 loads of laundry and has a light but long-lasting scent.
-
The larger bottles may make it challenging to dispense a precise amount of liquid fabric softener.
If you want your clothes soft and smelling extra-fresh, Gain Original Fabric Softener is our go-to choice. The scent is light and long-lasting, so your laundry will stay crisp even after it’s folded and put away. In addition to creating soft and subtly fragrant clothes, this fabric softener ensures they stay static-free.
This pick is compatible with all machines, including front and top load washers and high-efficiency (HE) machines. With less than an ounce needed per load, you can do up to 60 washes with one 51-ounce bottle. We love the incredible value of this liquid fabric softener—and that you can score even better deals on the bigger bottles.
Type: Liquid | Size: 51, 129, or 164 ounces | Scent: Original
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bounce-dryer-sheets-6016a351ace74b4e86c77ec0e5f3d018.jpg)
-
They're super convenient and are mess-free.
-
They create extra waste since they're single-use.
If you’re all about convenience, nothing is better than the Bounce Fabric Softener Sheets. Aside from softening your clothes as they tumble dry, we love that these light-as-air dryer sheets eliminate wrinkles and static. For those with pets, these sheets can also remove hair and lint, all while infusing your clothes with a fresh, clean scent.
The manufacturer recommends two sheets for best results, but you may find that one does the trick. Unlike jumbo bottles of fabric softener, these Bounce dryer sheets are lighter than air and easy to transport. If you live in an apartment and have to go out to a laundromat or a basement laundry room, it’s easy to tote along this box.
Type: Sheets | Size: 34, 60, 105, 120, 160, 240, or 250 sheets | Scent: Outdoor Fresh