According to the alternative Health Journal, recent studies indicate that fabric softener is highly toxic. In fact, they can be one of the most toxic products used in the home. Is your fabric softener toxic? Chances are that unless you are using natural products to make homemade fabric softeners, the fabric softener you are using is likely toxic.
Some of the chemicals that can make fabric softener toxic include chloroform, pentance, and benzyl acetate. Yes, these ingredients can actually be found in many fabric softeners being sold to consumers. These chemicals and others found in fabric softeners can cause serious health problems. Some of these chemicals are known to cause cancer. The heat used during washing and drying further causes the fabric softeners to be absorbed by clothing. Those who wear that clothing are then affected by the fabric softener. Toxic effects from that clothing are projected onto the person wearing the clothing, as well as those around them.
Did you know that fragrances are also on that list of chemicals that can make fabric softener toxic? Many people are unaware just how harmful fragrance can be. I have children in my household with asthma. Fragrance and other household cleaners can emit fumes that interfere with lung function. That can be very harmful to asthma sufferers. Therefore, I am very careful what I use to clean and maintain my home. Even those without asthma and medical conditions should be cautious of what is in their household cleaning and maintenance solutions. Most of these items are toxic to some extent and some worse than others.
Like my other cleaning habits, I use natural alternatives when it comes to laundering needs. Natural fabric softeners can be not only safer for people and pets, but many are even more budget-friendly than those with chemicals. There are actually natural fabric softeners on the market or you may choose to make your own. Seventh Generation sells a natural fabric softener. Toxic levels in this should be very low compared to others. In fact, the company lists it as non-toxic.
If you’d rather make your own natural fabric softener, here’s what I do. I mix 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar in my laundry load. The baking soda and vinegar combined help give the clothes a softer feel and reduce static buildup. I have noticed an added benefit of whitening and brightening as well. Actual amounts of each will vary depending on the washer size, so you may have to experiment to get it right. I discovered this tip on my own, but have seen it mentioned in many other places online and off. Do not mix the vinegar with bleach though, as this creates a toxic reaction. Of course, as a fan of chemical-free laundry, I don’t recommend bleach either, but that’s a whole new topic.
Sources:
Personal Experience
http://www.seventhgeneration.com/Fabric-Softener
http://www.alternativehealthjournal.com/article/fabric_softener__toxic_/3485
http://www.grinningplanet.com/2004/04-29/stop-static-cling-fabric-softener-article.htm
http://www.emballagedigest.fr/blog.php?2009/06/02/9227-echa-recommends-strict-control-for-seven-substances-of-very-high-concern-some-concern-packaging
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