Fabric softener - is it a health risk?

[ravip]

Today, while browsing the web, I came across a couple of articles saying that fabric softener is toxic and unhealthy.

One main pointer was that it can trigger allergies.

Is this proven? Is it that serious?

Any details would be much appreciated.

[Will B Good]

There is some evidence suggesting that certain fabric conditioners (also known as fabric softeners) might pose health risks, particularly for individuals with sensitivities or allergies, as well as potential environmental concerns. Here are a few points to consider:

### 1. **Chemical Ingredients**
   - **Fragrances**: Many fabric softeners contain artificial fragrances, which can trigger allergies, asthma, and skin irritations in sensitive individuals. Some synthetic fragrances can contain phthalates, which are chemicals linked to hormone disruption.
   - **Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)**: Quats are commonly used in fabric softeners for their antibacterial properties, but they have been associated with respiratory irritation, asthma, and skin irritation.
   - **Preservatives**: Some fabric softeners contain preservatives like methylisothiazolinone, which can cause allergic reactions, especially in those with sensitive skin.

### 2. **Health Risks**
   - **Skin Irritation**: People with sensitive skin or eczema may find that fabric softeners exacerbate their condition due to the chemicals used.
   - **Respiratory Issues**: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) released from the fragrances in fabric softeners can contribute to indoor air pollution and respiratory issues, especially in people with asthma or other lung conditions.

### 3. **Environmental Concerns**
   - **Water Pollution**: Chemicals from fabric softeners can end up in waterways after being washed out of clothing, potentially harming aquatic life.
   - **Biodegradability**: Many fabric softeners contain ingredients that are not easily biodegradable, contributing to environmental pollution.

### 4. **Alternatives**
   - **Natural Options**: Some people choose to use alternatives like white vinegar or wool dryer balls as natural fabric softeners, which may reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
   - **Hypoallergenic Products**: There are also hypoallergenic fabric softeners designed for people with sensitivities, though it's still essential to check the ingredients.

While these concerns don't mean that fabric conditioners are universally unhealthy, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks, especially if you have sensitivities, and to choose products that align with your health and environmental priorities.

[patman30]

nearly everything is toxic to a certain extent 
we have not used store bought laundry detergent or softener for years
we use magnesium balls instead of detergent
and we make our own softener fragrance from lime and vinegar
mag balls you put in a jar and fill with water and can use next day
Lime mix is on the shelf for a long time before being used
apart from being less toxic this also saves us a lot of baht

 

[ravip]

1 minute ago, patman30 said:

nearly everything is toxic to a certain extent 
we have not used store bought laundry detergent or softener for years
we use magnesium balls instead of detergent
and we make our own softener fragrance from lime and vinegar
mag balls you put in a jar and fill with water and can use next day
Lime mix is on the shelf for a long time before being used

 Magnesium balls - from where do you purchase them and how do you use it?

Lime and vinegar - The recipe, please.

[scubascuba3]

No need for it, i don't use it

[patman30]

1 hour ago, ravip said:

 Magnesium balls - from where do you purchase them and how do you use it?

Lime and vinegar - The recipe, please.

wife found magnesium balls from China on lazada or shopee
all you do is put them in a jar, fill the jar with water
the balls turn the water alkaline
then you add the water to your wash like it is liquid detergent
LIME mix, you simply fill a jar with limes you have had the juice from, and then top it up with white vinegar and let it sit a month
you then add some when at the rinse stage, you cannot add with magnesium water as they will cancel each other

[Classic Ray]

I just use same quantity of white vinegar in the fabric softener drawer. No smell is left of vinegar.

[newbee2022]

On 8/10/2024 at 10:53 AM, ravip said:

Today, while browsing the web, I came across a couple of articles saying that fabric softener is toxic and unhealthy.

One main pointer was that it can trigger allergies.

Is this proven? Is it that serious?

Any details would be much appreciated.

There are plant based softeners also. Browse your web again😃

[parallelman]

Certainly plays havoc on my buttocks. When I exercise I do build up a sweat and if I use softener on my underwear I get a red rash below and it gets very sore especially when doing sit-ups. Now I wash my underclothes and exercise outfit without the use of softener and no problem.