I have some underwear, 96% cotton/4% Lycra, with the quoted instruction. Why would this be recommended? Does it mean liquid softener used in the washing machine, dryer sheets, or both?
Fabric softener (whether liquid or dryer sheet) adds a chemical layer to the fabric to make it smoother and reduce static. However, this coating can also block up the “pores” of the fabric, reducing its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. That’s why it’s generally not recommended for sportswear (or underwear).
That’s also why you shouldn’t use it on towels, since it basically makes the towels hydrophobic. You can see it with a washcloth fresh out of the laundry with fabric softener, it will repel water a bit until you squeeze or rub it in.
Modern day fabric softener is wax. I hate using it.
I am too lazy to give a cite, but one is just melting a pre-defined wax into your clothes/underwear/towels/etc. whether in your dryer or washing machine.
Makes things smell good…profit!
Ninja lol ^^^^
My mom was a big user of fabric softener and her towels were basically useless, I used them to squeegee myself dry pushing the water down and eventually off.