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Thread Number: 68395
/ Tag: Other Home Products or Autos
Fabric Softener Sales Plunge - Millennials Don't Know What It Is For |
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Post# 911458 12/17/2016 at 00:28 (2,686 days old) by Launderess  (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage) |
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That has got P&G, Henkel and others worried, so much so they are setting out to rectify the situation.
consumerist.com/2016/12/16/fabri... www.wsj.com/articles/fabric-softe... fortune.com/2016/12/16/millennial... | ||
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| Post# 911529 , Reply# 2 12/17/2016 at 16:07 (2,686 days old) by LordKenmore (The Laundry Room) | ||
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| Post# 911555 , Reply# 3 12/17/2016 at 20:32 (2,686 days old) by miele_ge (Danbury, Connecticut) | ||
never use it now
Mom wasn't big on it although she did like the Dryer sheets.
When I was a kid, I used to try to get her to buy Downey (we never had a machine with a FS dispenser so I remember sending away for the Downey 'Ball'). Really can't say I miss it, especially for kitchen linens. Was at a friend's house early on in the friendship and took a mouthful of red wine and nearly gagged. The glass was dried with a towel loaded with Fabric Softener and had clung to the inside of the glass. Because my partner was closer to the hosts at the time, I just handed it to him and said "help!". LOL He gently mentioned it to the host who was mortified and got me a new glass immediately. Never happened again. If you are following good laundry practices (proper temps, detergent, rinsing, dosing, etc) you shouldn't need it, IMHO. | ||
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Post# 911586 , Reply# 5 12/18/2016 at 04:42 (2,685 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie) |
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Good for the millennials! Fabric softener is absolutely unnecessary except for controlling static cling in cold, low-humidity climates. The youngs may be too attached to their phones, but they've simplified laundry: Load the washer, toss in a Tide pod, slide a credit card into the slot and return in an hour to transfer clothes to the dryer.
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| Post# 911587 , Reply# 6 12/18/2016 at 04:53 (2,685 days old) by toploader55 (Massachusetts Sand Bar, Cape Cod) | ||
Sta-Puf in the Glass Bottles had a nice light scent.
Never used it on a regular basis, but loved it for a new pair of jeans and occasionally for Bath Towels. Once they switched to plastic bottles they tweaked the formula and never bought it again. Some are quite toxic and I certainly don't want any of those chemicals especially dryer sheets next to my skin. When going to visit certain relatives, I bring my own towels and bedsheets as their laundry suffers from Moldy Front Loader Sewer Syndrome. They don't notice it and are insulted when I don't use their bath towels. If you use their towels after a shower, you smell like a sour kitchen sponge scented with Bounce Sheets to mask the odor. | ||
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Post# 911599 , Reply# 7 12/18/2016 at 07:58 (2,685 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN) |
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 Shoot, My grandmother used to practically dump the whole bottle of Downy in her GE FF. Her towels were so soft they would just smear the water LOL. My mother has always used small amounts. I didn't use it much until I installed the water softener back in 2001. After that, I found I need a little to help eliminate suds...even after 4 rinses in the Asko and 3 rinses and full spins in the Miele. I use the yellow Suavitel on my towels and whites because it doesn't soften so much but smells really nice combined with Clorox. Everything just comes out smelling so clean and fresh. Been using the Walmart GV brand softener in my color loads. It smells ok too and pretty much goes well with Persil, Tide with febreeze, Gain, Fresh Start, and Oxydol.
I haven't used dryer sheets in many many years and won't. I have forbidden Tony to even bring any home from the store no matter what kind of sale they are having! | ||
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Post# 911608 , Reply# 8 12/18/2016 at 08:30 (2,685 days old) by polkanut (Wausau, WI ) |
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| Post# 911615 , Reply# 9 12/18/2016 at 09:01 (2,685 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA) | ||
No Surprise | ||
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Post# 911623 , Reply# 10 12/18/2016 at 09:22 (2,685 days old) by appnut (TX) |
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 I think my mom started using them almost from the beginning they were marketed. Consequently I was exposed from th4e beginning of doing laundry and I've continued. I've been using Snuggle for over a decade. My partner was very impressed with how much softer his clothes and linens feel. (I've also gotten him to stop using bargain brand liquids). People actually commented how much nicer his clothes looked and liked the slight scent (and he bathes at least once a day if not more). | ||
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Post# 911631 , Reply# 11 12/18/2016 at 10:22 (2,685 days old) by GusHerb (Chicago/NWI) |
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I only use fabric softener during the winter when everything's dry and scratchy, and I just use the unscented Downey. I have a bottle of Snuggle Blue Sparkle laying around if I feel something needs a strong scent for whatever reason. Oh and I'm a "millennial". | ||
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Post# 911642 , Reply# 12 12/18/2016 at 11:51 (2,685 days old) by Jetcone (Schenectady-Home of Calrods,Monitor Tops,Toroid Transformers) |
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Tom that is a riot  | ||
| Post# 911644 , Reply# 13 12/18/2016 at 11:59 (2,685 days old) by vacerator (Macomb, Michigan) | ||
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I'm still young at heart, but over the hill as we say, and I am allergic to a lot of scented things now. I'm a dryer sheet user, but only hypo allergenic/free. I had a sample of Palmolive dish liquid. It cut grease well but stunk like cheap cologne. | ||
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Post# 911669 , Reply# 14 12/18/2016 at 15:59 (2,685 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay) |
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 Veering slightly off topic, I just purchased a set of fleece sheets and was anticipating the need to start using dryer sheets again (I've never used LFS in my FL machine, except to kick down suds created by P&G's "For Both" powder formula).
Laundering instructions for the new sheets make no bones about proper treatment: COLD wash (sorry, but I can't do that -- I opt for warm), no FS, dry on low, no dryer sheets.
I was expecting a static nightmare as a result, but they've done something to the fabric that almost completely eliminates static, yet they feel just like other fleece sheets we've had in the past.
Since dryer sheets tend to mess with the sensors inside the drum, I'm glad I don't have to use them with the new bed linens. | ||
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Post# 911690 , Reply# 15 12/18/2016 at 18:41 (2,685 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD) |
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What is the fabric from which the fleece was made? They sound very warm. | ||
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Post# 911707 , Reply# 16 12/18/2016 at 21:05 (2,685 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage) |
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As others have already said, and the OP article makes clear, no one "needs" fabric softener when you get right down to it.
The stuff was invented to counteract the results of using harsh "detergents" (powders built with lots of alkaline substances), and washing machines that weren't always exactly gentle with laundry. Other reason was the switch from soaps to detergent left laundry missing the softness that comes from using former. That "built in fabric softener" was the results of fats/oils used to make soap. No matter how much and well one rinsed there would always be trace residue. So what did those clever chops at laundry product makers come up with? An emulsion of fats, oils and water that put back the residue soaps left. Early and still some fabric softeners were made from the same tallow as soaps. Ironic that people who swore off using that substance for wash day were now paying for pretty much the same (if not diluted) to be added in final rinse. All this being said there can be some justification for fabric "conditioners". Yes, they do make ironing easier, which is why commercial laundries use them then things aren't starched. Laundry going through those large ironing machines often are treated with FS to prevent rolling, static and other problems. FS/FC also do give certain laundry a smoother hand, especially when machine dried. However being as all this may the move towards liquid detergents probably is going far to lessen the need for fabric softeners. Unlike powdered detergents liquids do not contain washing soda and other harsh salts that can result in laundry feeling harsh. Many of them do contain a certain (small) percentage of soap which accounts for not only cleaning ability but perhaps softness as well. | ||
| Post# 911726 , Reply# 17 12/18/2016 at 22:46 (2,685 days old) by gefilterflo (Newark, Ohio) | ||
As a millennial, I can take credit for inconsistent use of fabric softener. I use Persil PowerPearls in my Steam Duet and they seem to work just fine without too much static. I seldom see any suds unless I wash blankets or towels that were last washed in the old top loader.
My brother, on the other hand, prides himself on using so much Snuggle Blue Sparkle that it is a family joke. | ||
| Post# 911733 , Reply# 18 12/18/2016 at 23:46 (2,684 days old) by Mich (Hells Kitchen - New York) | ||
Young Millennial Here. 
I've honestly never used much fabric softener. Nor have I really ever used Dryer Sheets. Most Liquid Detergent's used in soft-ish water conditions, leave fabrics feeling pretty decent... so long as they make it through the tumble dryer. If they are not tumbled long, they are kinda, iffy. Powder Detergents aren't that bad. and usually do well if you use an extra rinse cycle.
Honestly... if you've ever followed the Tide Pods marketing... you would assume it contains some sort of fabric softener, as well as Bleach, and Stain Remover, and you could magically forget all of those things in your head forever.. so long as you buy Tide Pods. They may have unintentionally killed some of their market by not making things clear enough. As for me. I don't know. There's a certain store brand Fabric Softener, that I truly love and smells just like the Old Downy April Fresh from my childhood, but beyond that... many fabric softeners are totally "gag-worthy" for me. I honestly can't stand many of the Downy, Suavitel, or Snuggle Scents. They just make me feel sick and in some cases... I even feel like I've been given headaches. They are just awful. I just like the smell of CLEAN & LIGHT scents. I love the smell of Tide Original, Original Powder and Fresh Spring Water's from a Henkel Brand. I don't know... if I'm their main focus as a consumer. I may be one of the last millennials still in love with their Powders & lightly scented stuff. But Still. I am one of their "markets". And they clearly need to wake up. | ||
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Post# 911744 , Reply# 19 12/19/2016 at 01:48 (2,684 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc) |
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I don't use softeners-Don't need them.Yes,they smell TOO much and their ingredients make me nervous.SAVE YOUR MONEY!!! | ||
| Post# 911753 , Reply# 20 12/19/2016 at 02:58 (2,684 days old) by toploader55 (Massachusetts Sand Bar, Cape Cod) | ||
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Post# 911773 , Reply# 22 12/19/2016 at 06:58 (2,684 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage) |
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Downy Ball | ||
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Post# 911784 , Reply# 23 12/19/2016 at 08:01 (2,684 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN) |
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| Post# 911802 , Reply# 24 12/19/2016 at 11:51 (2,684 days old) by Mich (Hells Kitchen - New York) | ||
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re - Downy Ball. | ||
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Post# 911803 , Reply# 25 12/19/2016 at 12:02 (2,684 days old) by DaveAMKrayoGuy (Oak Park, MI) |
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X-er by Birth, trapped in the Womb, in long-making... | ||
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Post# 911826 , Reply# 26 12/19/2016 at 17:41 (2,684 days old) by appnut (TX) |
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Post# 911834 , Reply# 27 12/19/2016 at 18:19 (2,684 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.) |
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Post# 911835 , Reply# 28 12/19/2016 at 18:20 (2,684 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.) |
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Post# 911871 , Reply# 30 12/20/2016 at 00:45 (2,683 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay) |
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Fleece Sheets Tom, the sheets are Sheex brand 100% polyester fleece. They were on clearance at BB&B, and with an additional 20% off coupon, I got a Cal King set for less than $50.
One thing I've noticed is that each time they're put through the dryer, they leave a thick - though not dense -- layer of lint, so much that some of it tries to escape past the screen. With the amount of laundering these sheets will experience over the winter, I'm not sure how long they may last, and I'll be vacuuming the dryer's lint screen housing a lot more often. CLICK HERE TO GO TO rp2813's LINK | ||
| Post# 911883 , Reply# 31 12/20/2016 at 03:59 (2,683 days old) by LordKenmore (The Laundry Room) | ||
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P&G has also brought this upon themselves by making IIRC a version of Tide that includes "a touch of Downy." Presumably, that formula will leave clothes softer.
There is a comment above about softener dispensers. One advantage of old fashioned top load machines is that one can pause it mid cycle without the machine kicking up a fuss. Thus, one can add softener at the start of the rinse cycle. Many "normal people" would find this inconvenient, but it's not a big deal for me. Indeed, I usually at least make a quick check to make sure the rinse is going well (and see if it looks like 2nd rinse is called for). | ||
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Post# 912533 , Reply# 33 12/25/2016 at 08:47 (2,678 days old) by retro-man (- boston,ma) |
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Picked up a Downy ball last week in Target for a whopping $1.37. Tried it this week and it works great. Funny never had one of these before. All machines I have had previously had a f/s dispenser. Jon | ||
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Post# 913219 , Reply# 36 12/30/2016 at 21:43 (2,673 days old) by Sudsmaster (SF Bay Area, California) |
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I feel sorry for your mate, Tomás.
My neighbors on one side always seem to use dryer sheets (I can tell from the aroma). Their dryer vents from their garage wall, directly towards the fence. On the other side of the fence is my enclosed patio with louvered low windows, which have an air gap (for ventilation I guess) top and bottom. In any case, I can always tell when they are drying laundry. That smell. Hate it. Me, I stopped using fabric softener some years ago. For soft towels, I've found a mild liquid detergent is good enough. Although lately I've started adding an ounce or so of white distilled vinegar to the FS compartment. Seems to result in softer towels. And every once in a while, I'll use real grated natural soap (Mexican) and they feel even softer. I didn't like the way FS encouraged mold to grow in the dispenser, a major reason for stopping its use. | ||
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Post# 1184766 , Reply# 38 7/12/2023 at 16:21 (288 days old) by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA) |
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fabric softener I still use fabric softener in the final deep rinse. It has always worked for me and still does. I found that dryer sheets don't work as well as fabric softener. This post was last edited 07/12/2023 at 19:05 | ||
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Post# 1184783 , Reply# 39 7/12/2023 at 22:14 (288 days old) by thomasortega (El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles de Porciúncula) |
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I cannot imagine my life without an abusive and offensive explosion of scent and fluffiness. If I could I'd probably even drink or inject FS in my veins. As it's not possible, a cupful (sometimes more) in the final rinse. If the neighbors two blocks away from me cannot say "Thomas is doing laundry", that's not enough fabric softener for me. Yes, I know it leaves the washer nasty. That's why im always cleaning them to remove all that grease. | ||
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Post# 1192393 , Reply# 40 10/22/2023 at 13:48 (186 days old) by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA) |
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laundry detergent and fabric softener Sorry I'm late to the party, but this is why I like my laundry detergent and fabric softener scents to match. Fabric softener goes in the final deep rinse to soften and freshen your clothes. | ||
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Post# 1192395 , Reply# 41 10/22/2023 at 14:38 (186 days old) by luxflairguy (Wilmington NC) |
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YAWN! | ||
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Post# 1192404 , Reply# 42 10/22/2023 at 16:50 (186 days old) by bajaespuma (Connecticut) |
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Works for me I switched to lemon juice years ago and it's the perfect "sour" to neutralize excess anions and I use it, the way some people use vinegar (I don't like the smell), for lots of other cleaning jobs. Professional artisan bread bakers use it and/or vinegar to clean the masonry decks or their ovens after a day of baking.
I remembered that my Grandmother used it in her automatic. | ||
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Post# 1192584 , Reply# 44 10/26/2023 at 15:15 (182 days old) by Adam-aussie-vac (Canberra ACT) |
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Thing is where I’m from my parents After trying for the first time I became hooked, I’m not sure how many people can say they’ve got hooked on fabric softener | ||
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Post# 1192702 , Reply# 46 10/28/2023 at 22:23 (180 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD) |
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I wish Staley's Sta Puf was still available. That was what we used. A neighbor with a Westinghouse used NuSoft. | ||
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Post# 1192703 , Reply# 47 10/28/2023 at 22:33 (180 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.) |
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For the longest time I wasn’t using liquid fabric softener, just the dryer sheets. Then I bought a bottle of Downey and used my Downey Ball since my Roper didn’t come equipped with a dispenser. I liked it so much that I finally bought a dispenser and retro fitted my machine with it.
For the past 4-5 mo I’ve been using Up&Up Spring Bloom Fabric Conditioner and I really like it. I only use 1/2 cap plus water to the fill line of the dispenser and haven’t noticed any build up in the machine. The Spring Bloom smells like Downey April Fresh and is lower in price. Eddie | ||
| Post# 1192710 , Reply# 48 10/28/2023 at 23:40 (180 days old) by qsd-dan (West) | ||
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