By Maribel Velazquez
Aug 27, 2024, 2:20 PM EDT
Washing may seem like a simple task, however, there are rules when doing it that few people know, such as separating clothes according to their fabric and avoiding at all costs that some clothes come into contact with the softener so as not to damage them.
In addition to the detergent used for washing, the general population usually applies a good dose of air freshener to clothes to add a touch of softness and aroma. In some garments, air freshener helps reduce friction and even makes ironing easier, but in others it simply ruins them.
These are the seven garments that should never be mixed with fabric softener.
Swimwear
Fabric softening can severely damage the elasticity of the material a swimsuit is made of, such as spandex, which is very common in swimsuits. Fabric softening causes swimsuits to lose their shape and fit.
Sportswear
How many times have you asked yourself why sportswear is so expensive? The answer is simple: it is made from fabrics designed to be breathable and wick away moisture. If you add fabric softener, the clothing will no longer perform its two basic functions and will no longer be as comfortable when exercising.
Waterproof clothing
Fabric softener is the number one enemy of waterproof clothing because it reduces its main function, thus preventing proper water repulsion.
Baby clothes
When there is a baby at home, the mother wants her clothes to smell delicious, however, the skin of newborns is very delicate and softening could irritate it.
Towels
The function of a towel is to absorb the greatest amount of water, which is reduced when fabric softener is applied to this type of fabric and over time they become less effective.
Microfiber towels
Microfiber towels are designed to trap dust and absorb liquids, but they can lose their function when they come into contact with fabric softener because their microfibers become coated, thus decreasing their effectiveness.
Wool garments
Wool garments are fluffy and regulate moisture as well as temperature, but if washed with fabric softener, the wool may be less durable and more prone to deforming.