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Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,051
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

I just started using fabric softener. I had not done so before. I have developed symptoms of a UTI without the accompanying bacterial issues. While not going into any more symptoms so as not to get this thread poofed, I wonder has anyone else had this happen?  I did look up the possibility on the Internet and it is amazing how many chemicals are contained in these sheets and in the liquid. I had previously only used white vinegar. I am now going back to that. Oh, and I started my self on a low dose of Bactrim.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,936
Registered: ‎07-02-2015

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

[ Edited ]

Fabric softener has been number one on my avoid list since I was in my 20's and living in an apartment building with community washers/dryers.

 

Two times, someone had left a fabric softener sheet in a dryer that I hadn't noticed.

 

I soon became covered with huge hives.  Both times I had to see a dermatologist, and got  huge doses of antihistamine Benadryl.  Enough drug to make me pass out, sleep forever and not go to work for a few days.

 

 

 

 

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,407
Registered: ‎07-07-2010

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

@Deanie, I had a severe reaction to those washer crystals that helped prevent odors.  I started using them because of my workouts.  I spent 8 months in serious pain from something that I only used a few times.  New and improved can be a health hazard.

The next time that I hear salt and ice together, it better be in a margarita!
Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,051
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

@SXMGirlyes. When I read about the chemicals from fabric softener, I banned it to never land. You are correct. New and improved is in the eyes of the beholder.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,699
Registered: ‎12-02-2013

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?


@Deanie wrote:

I just started using fabric softener. I had not done so before. I have developed symptoms of a UTI without the accompanying bacterial issues. While not going into any more symptoms so as not to get this thread poofed, I wonder has anyone else had this happen?  I did look up the possibility on the Internet and it is amazing how many chemicals are contained in these sheets and in the liquid. I had previously only used white vinegar. I am now going back to that. Oh, and I started my self on a low dose of Bactrim.


My only UTI was after a very exhausting day packing and moving from our apartment to our new home.  Thought I would relax with a bubble bath....never drank water or ate that day.  Perfect set up for a UTI !

We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.
Sir Winston Churchill
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,162
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

I'm glad you mentioned something because I'm so sensitive. I can't even sit in a hot tub or flail around in the sea. 

 

Anyone know how to keep towels soft without using fabric softener? 

"I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees." Henry David Thoreau
Honored Contributor
Posts: 40,714
Registered: ‎05-22-2016

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

[ Edited ]

I stopped using fabric softeners years ago. Now I use those Woolzies brand of wool dryer balls. They help cut drying times and make my clothes soft. You need several of them, like six balls, in a normal to large size load...just so you know.

 

These are the ones I use:

 

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Amazon item number  B0067STK3C  $17

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,051
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

@SilleeMee  They are now in my cart at Amazon. Thanks muchly

Frequent Contributor
Posts: 131
Registered: ‎03-23-2010

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

Oh yes to the fabric softener. I have to be so careful with soap as well. I use Tom's soap. I double rinse my towels and panties. And I use non irritating detergent. No baths for me. I avoid citric acid. A&P root beer has none. I remember using philosophy's washes years ago and kept getting UTI's; finally figured it out. My coffee intake has to be watched as well. 

Honored Contributor
Posts: 10,616
Registered: ‎05-15-2016

Re: Has anyone experienced a UTI after using fabric softener?

Yes! I have found that to be a culprit.