How to Choose a Natural Fabric Softener

The right natural fabric softener depends on the fabrics you wash, whether you enjoy fragrance and how frequently you use softener. Our range includes scented and unscented liquid fabric softeners, sensitive options and bulk sizes. Compare the fragrance, recommended dose, pack size and fabric-care directions to find the best fit for your laundry routine.

Choose a fragrance that suits your laundry

Fragrance is one of the biggest differences between fabric softeners. Some people enjoy a noticeable scent on freshly washed clothes and linen, while others prefer an unscented or fragrance-free option. Abode and Ecologic offer different fragrance choices within their ranges, making this a useful place to start when narrowing down your options.

If you want to avoid added fragrance, choose a product specifically described as unscented or fragrance free. This is particularly important when comparing natural fabric softeners, as the word natural does not necessarily mean that a product has little or no fragrance.

Consider sensitive and unscented formulas

If fragrance is the main feature you are trying to avoid, an unscented formula may be preferable to simply choosing the lightest-smelling scented option. Abode offers an unscented fabric softener with no added fragrance, while other products in the range provide different fragrance choices. Compare the individual formulas if you have particular ingredient preferences.

What about organic fabric softener?

If you're searching for an organic fabric softener or organic laundry softener, look beyond the wording used to describe the category and compare the individual ingredients and product information. Natural, plant-based and organic can describe different aspects of a laundry product and do not necessarily mean the same thing. Formal organic certification should only be assumed where it is specifically stated for that product.

The same applies when looking for an all natural fabric softener. Comparing the actual formula, fragrance and directions will give you a better idea of whether a particular product matches what you are looking for.

Consider size, dosage and value

Pack size is only part of the value equation. Check the recommended amount per wash and consider how often you use fabric softener. If you use it with most loads, a larger size may be more convenient, while a smaller bottle can make sense if you only use softener occasionally.

Abode bulk laundry bundles are another option if you regularly purchase both laundry products. These combine natural laundry liquid and fabric softener, making it easy to stock up on both at the same time. If you only need softener, choose a standalone bottle instead.

Use fabric softener with your laundry detergent

Fabric softener does not replace laundry detergent. Your detergent does the cleaning, while fabric softener is an optional additional step used during the rinse cycle. Pair your chosen softener with a suitable product from our natural laundry liquid range and follow the directions for both products.

Check whether fabric softener suits the fabric

Fabric softener isn't necessarily the right choice for every load. Check garment-care labels, particularly when washing towels, microfibre cloths, moisture-wicking activewear, wool and specialist performance fabrics. Fabric softener can affect properties such as absorbency or moisture management in some materials, so it is worth separating these items from loads where you normally use softener.