Homemade Fabric Softener You Can Make in Minutes

Homemade fabric softener is one of those DIY home ideas that’s not only budget-friendly but also gives you total control over what’s going into your laundry.

If you’re tired of store-bought brands with mystery ingredients or overpowering scents, making your own laundry products might just be the refreshing switch your routine needs.

It’s easier than you might think, and chances are you already have some of the ingredients at home — like vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils.

Whether you’re looking to ditch chemicals, soften your clothes naturally, or add a light, custom scent to your laundry, this DIY idea checks all the boxes.

How do I make my own fabric softener?

Here’s a quick summary, but you can scroll to the bottom for a printable version you can keep on hand!

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together hair conditioner, white vinegar, and warm distilled water.

Once that’s combined, stir in baking soda and a few drops each of lavender and geranium essential oils.

Pour the mixture into a mason jar or airtight container using a funnel if needed.

Shake before each use and follow your washing machine’s guidelines—or use it to refresh reusable dryer sheets!

Natural Fabric Softener is a super easy way to keep your laundry soft, fresh, and chemical-free.

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Homemade Fabric Softener Recipe

Homemade fabric softener is a game-changer for your laundry routine—learn how to make it with just a few pantry staples

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup hair conditioner
• ½ cup white vinegar
• 2 cups warm distilled water
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 10-20 drops lavender essential oil
• 10-20 drops geranium essential oil

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, add the hair conditioner, vinegar and distilled water and whisk until well combined.
• Whisk in the baking soda and a few drops of essential oils.
• Pour the mixture into your container. 

Notes

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the maximum amount of fabric softener to add per load.
• If you have hard water, you may need to use slightly more fabric softener to achieve the desired softness.
• Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Store your fabric softener in a tightly sealed container away from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness.

Keyword DIY Fabric Softener, Fabric softener recipe, Homemade fabric softener, Natural fabric softener