Fabric softeners smell delightful and leave our clothes feeling soft, but when it comes to cleaning cloths, they're the ultimate nemesis. Here's why you should ditch the fabric softener and keep your cleaning cloths squeaky clean for maximum effectiveness.
The Science Behind Fabric Softener:
Fabric softeners work by coating fibres with positively charged chemicals that lubricate the fabric, reducing friction and creating that soft, smooth feel. These chemicals also neutralize static cling and help release wrinkles.
Cleaning Cloths: Designed for Absorption:
Cleaning cloths, especially those made with microfiber, are designed with microscopic fibres that are incredibly absorbent. Their whole purpose is to grab onto dust, dirt, and liquids, leaving surfaces spotless.
The Fabric Softener Effect: A Cleaning Cloth's Demise:
When fabric softener coats cleaning cloths, it does the same thing it does to your clothes: it adds a layer of chemicals that reduces friction. Unfortunately, this also creates a barrier that drastically diminishes the cloth's ability to:
Absorb water: The water-wicking magic of cleaning cloths is severely hampered, making them far less effective at cleaning up spills and messes.
Hold onto dirt: Instead of trapping dust and debris, the coated cloth fibres tend to let it slide right off, leaving streaks and residue behind.
Clean effectively: The lack of absorption and friction means you'll be scrubbing harder and longer to achieve the same results.
Ditch the Softener, Unleash the Cleaning Power:
To maximize your cleaning cloths' performance:
Wash them separately: Avoid washing your cleaning cloths with regular laundry.
Skip the fabric softener: Plain detergent is all you need.
Occasional vinegar rinse: A splash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle helps remove any residue and boost absorbency.
Air dry when possible: Tossing in the dryer can wear down the fibres over time.
The Bottom Line
Fabric softener may have its place in your laundry room, but your cleaning arsenal is not it. By keeping your cleaning cloths free from fabric softener, you'll ensure they're always ready to tackle their intended job with maximum efficiency.