Laundry Fabric Softener Recipe

Laundry can sometimes feel stiff or rough, even when it's clean. This is often caused by a build-up of detergent residue, soap residue or minerals from hard water.

This simple fabric softener works by:

  • Neutralising alkaline soap or detergent residue
  • Helping dissolve hard water minerals
  • Allowing fibres to relax and rinse clean

You can also choose your own fragrance by using essential oils, the citric acid is great at dispersing them in the wash. 

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What you'll need

🫙 Makes: 750g is approx. 50 loads 🕝 Time: Instant


INGREDIENTS

  • Citric acid: 1 tablespoon (approx. 15g)
  • Essential oils (optional): 3-5 drops of your favourite


HOW TO USE IT

Add the citric acid to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine or directly to the rinse cycle, it will dissolve in the rinse water.
Laundry Fabric Softener Recipe

Storage

  • Store in a labelled airtight container away from direct sunlight.
  • Although citric acid can be food grade, keep away from children and pets — especially when essential oils are used.


Suitable Fabrics
This method is suitable for most everyday laundry than can be done in a washing machine. For delicate fibres like wool or silk, follow garment care instructions and rinse in cold water only.


Other important notes

  • This method is suitable for front or top loaders
  • Septic safe ingredients
  • Do not mix citric acid with laundry powder


Using Vinegar Instead
Vinegar is another great option for laundry rinse, however you usually require more. Most recipes call for between 1/2 to 1 cup which means more storage and more product.

Grab what you need

Citric Acid

Citric Acid

$11.50
Woman holding a jar next to laundry detergent bottles in a laundry room.

Laundry Essentials Trio

$69.00
Amber glass essential oil bottle with white label with Under Your Sink logo and description Eucalyptus Blue Gum essential oil. Has blurred images of eucalyptus in background

Eucalyptus Blue Gum Essential Oil

$9.95
small 50ml amber glass essential oil bottle with white label with under your sink logo and description LEMONGRASS pure essential oil

Lemongrass Essential Oil

$11.50

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