Community Chat

[ROMARY]

If I correct recall, from a hundred years ago (lol), the process of commercial softeners is to break down the fibers to make the fabric 'soft'. Well, that's the way it used to be, anyway.

[Chihuahualuv]

I saw on CBC Morning News a few years ago that you only need to use 1/2 dryer sheet. Cut or tear them in half.

[Shelbelle]

I keep 4 dryer balls in my dryer at all times, no other softeners.

[ROMARY]

Many years ago, there used to be a warning on the package to keep away from skin (an irritant), babies, don't inhale, etc. Maybe that's changed.

[ical]

On 10/21/2014 happy housewife said:

IMO - it is so much simpler to just use the dryer sheets and when you are done with the wash for that week - wash the lint screen from the dryer to remove any build up that may be on it from the dryer sheets.

Can't use them with silk or delicate fibers unless you like oily blotches which will not come out.

Basically a chemical coating released with heat as your clothes' surfaces tumble among this also-bad-for-your-dryer mystery brew.

[ical]

On 10/21/2014 KYToby said:

If you have a dryer with sensors that determine when the clothes are dry, dryer sheets leave residues which can cause problems. Regardless of method, refer to the instructions on the packaging and I your appliance manual.

For example, our dryer's manual specifically says not to use sheets. Our washer runs all rinse water through the softener dispense, so we do not have to dilute. Most dispensers require it, though.

This. Never use them, plus they smell bad, imo.

[ROMARY]

ical: 'Me, too'........they make my stomach 'turn' even walking by houses' garage doors. Seems as though many use them, and sometimes, my clothes absorb the odor if several neighbors are using them at the same time!

[Lipstickdiva]

I use white vinegar. I think fabric softener and sheets are horrible for your clothes and your machines.

I was using dryer sheets originally but was getting a horrible build-up of "gunk" on my lint screen that had to be scrubbed off a lot more than just once a week. When I saw that build-up, I quit using the sheets.

[ical]

On 10/21/2014 ROMARY said:

ical: 'Me, too'........they make my stomach 'turn' even walking by houses' garage doors. Seems as though many use them, and sometimes, my clothes absorb the odor if several neighbors are using them at the same time!

I wonder what the chemicals are that are filling the air, basements, homes, laundromats and contaminating the clothing? They turn my stomach, as well!

[ROMARY]

Oh, I forgot about the landromat..........there is one (very busy/full) near a shopping center store........OMG, I have to park on the other side of the building. Or the odor will permeate my car!