Back in the “good old days” fabric softeners were made from a combination of soap and olive oil (or other natural oils).  Unfortunately, today’s products aren't the same at all.

Commercial softeners can contain a massive amount of nasty chemicals, including benzyl acetate, camphor and chloroform - not to mention dyes and artificial fragrances (you can bet there are no oriental flowers in that “Oriental Bouquet”).

All those chemicals coat the surface of your clothes with a thin layer of synthetic ingredients.  This makes your clothes feel smoother, but it also makes fibres less absorbent, which isn’t always ideal, especially in the case of bath towels, and sweat-absorbing fabric in athletic wear.  In the case of microfiber cloths and towels, softeners can actually cause irreversible damage to the fibres.

Can’t give up that cuddly softness just yet?  Fortunately we have a natural alternative.  This naturally-scented fabric softener is easy to make, low cost and biodegradable, and will leave your laundry soft and fresh.

Bosisto’s DIY fabric softener

You’ll need:

2 cups of Epsom salt
20-30 drops of your favourite essential oil (Bosisto’s Lavender or Eucalyptus Oils are both wonderful in the laundry)
½ cup baking soda
A container with a tightly fitting lid

Directions:
Mix together 2 cups of Epsom salt and 20-30 drops of your favourite essential oil.  Stir in the essential oil before mixing in ½ cup baking soda.  Pour into a container with a tightly fitting lid (such as a wide-necked, screw top or vacuum hinge jar).  Label the jar, especially if you plan on doing a few with different scents.  Use 2-3 tablespoons each load, during the rinse cycle.

QUICK TIP:   Want a quick pre-ironing spray?  Fill a spray bottle with 1 cup distilled white vinegar, 1 cup of water and 1 ½ tsp of Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Oil.  Shake well and spray on clothes to reduce static cling and assist ironing out tough wrinkles.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Please follow manufacturer's directions when laundering clothes and bedding, and if unsure always patch test first.