Here's Why You Shouldn't Use Fabric Softener On Your Socks And Towels

It's not doing you any good.

Do you feel like your socks wear out so fast that you only have, like, one good pair?

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You're not alone.

Some have holes, some barely have any stitching left, others are pilled beyond belief.

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Another one bites the dust.

Well, if you're using fabric softener on them when you do laundry — PUT. THE BOTTLE. DOWN.

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Seriously.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but even though fabric softener smells nice, it's actually not great for your socks.

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According to home ec encyclopedia Home Comforts: The Art & Science of Keeping House by Cheryl Mendelson, fabric softener leaves a waxy coating on socks. That wax will end up wearing them down and locking in your foot odor, since the fabric can't absorb water or detergent. YUM.

Oh, and the same goes for your towels, T-shirts, underwear, sheets, and pillowcases.

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Fabrics that are used on or near your skin are only comfortable when absorbent, Mendelson says — and if that waxy coating continues to build up, it can leave them feeling greasy. Plus, like, the entire point of towels is to absorb water.

Not to mention, fabric softeners may also reduce the effectiveness of flame-resistant clothes.

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Mendelson advises that you wash and dry items treated with flame retardants in loads that will not receive softening treatment.

Bottom line: If you want your clothes to last longer, it's time to break up with your fabric softener.

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We're here for you.