Make Your Own Fabric Softener-Here's How (and WHY)

For several months now, I've been making my own laundry detergent and fabric softener. I've done a little playing around with other people's recipes (click here for my new laundry detergent recipe) and I've figured out what I like best, so I thought it was time to share...

First, WHY would one make her own fabric softener (or laundry detergent)? There are all sorts of reasons out there, but the main one for me is cost. It's so much cheaper, and I can keep the ingredients on hand to make it whenever I need some more. I don't run out, and have to add it to the list. The ingredients are cheap, and I usually have them anyway. I also like the idea of being able to control what is in our fabric softener. I get to choose the scent, and I can make it as natural as I want.

Second, is the HOW. You will need white vinegar, hot water, and hair conditioner....yes, hair conditioner, any brand or scent you desire. I use 3 cups of (hot) water, 1 cup of hair conditioner (I like Suave waterfall mist), and 1.5 cups of white vinegar. You will also need an empty bottle with a lid to store it.

My 3 ingredients: conditioner, vinegar, water

This is a 48oz apple juice bottle.

 Once you have gathered these things, you will need to stir your conditioner into you hot water until it dissolves (maybe 2 minutes). The water will take on the color of the conditioner and you will no longer see little chunks floating in the water. It should look something like this...

Then you will pour the water-conditioner solution into your empty bottle and measure out your vinegar.

almost there!

Now, you will add the vinegar to the water-conditioner solution. Put the lid on the bottle and gently slosh it around to mix. Do not go crazy shaking it if you are about to use it because it will be super sudsy.

your ready-to-use fabric softener

And there you have it...you are ready to do some laundry!  Use about 2 tablespoons per load for soft, fresh-smelling clothes.