Traditional fabric softener used at home for laundry contains certain synthetic substances that, as well as polluting water, can trigger allergic reactions on contact with some sensitive skin types. Specifically, the fragrances, preservatives and dyes that make it up are often derived from petroleum or, in any case, chemically processed.

These range from synthetic fragrances that can cause itching or skin redness, to ingredients that act directly on clothes by coating them in a film that is difficult to wash off with water and in which all manner of germs and bacteria can harbour. As a result, the substances that make up fabric softeners are harmful to the environment, as they are only minimally biodegradable, but also to our health.

Formaldehyde

One of the most dangerous substances found in non-eco-friendly fabric softener is formaldehyde, whose use is strictly regulated by European legislation. Prolonged exposure to this chemical compound could cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract. It is therefore a highly harmful substance, a fact also confirmed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which since 2004 has classified it within the group of carcinogens that humans can be exposed to through inhalation.

Natural alternatives

There are some simple solutions that naturally replace traditional fabric softener. One example is bicarbonate of soda or citric acid diluted in water (three tablespoons in 500ml of water) and poured into the dispenser drawer. But that's not all.

White wine vinegar can also be used to soften laundry. How? By pouring a small amount (around one tenth of a one-litre bottle) exclusively into the fabric softener compartment. And never directly into the drum, because, due to its different acid composition, coming into contact with the detergent would reduce the effectiveness of both.

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