The use of fabric softener or dryer sheets in laundry serves several purposes, such as reducing static cling, softening fabrics, and adding a pleasant scent. However, the consequences of not using fabric softener or dryer sheets on your laundry are generally minimal, and the smell will not come back on its own. Here's what you can expect:
Texture and softness: Fabric softeners work by depositing a thin layer of chemicals onto the fabric fibers, making them feel softer. If you stop using fabric softener, your clothes may feel slightly less soft, but this effect is usually not very noticeable, especially with regular cotton fabrics.
Static cling: One of the benefits of using dryer sheets is reducing static cling in fabrics. Without dryer sheets, you might experience a bit more static electricity in your clothes, particularly during dry, low-humidity conditions. However, this can be mitigated by not over-drying your laundry and removing it from the dryer promptly.
Scent: The pleasant smell associated with fabric softeners or dryer sheets will not linger on your clothes forever. Over time, the scent will naturally fade away, especially with regular washing.
Towel absorbency: Fabric softeners can leave residues on towels, reducing their absorbency over time. If you stop using fabric softener, your towels may become more absorbent again after a few washes.
Wrinkles: Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can help reduce wrinkles in clothes. Without them, you might notice slightly more wrinkles, but proper folding or hanging after drying can help minimize this.
Sensitivity: Some people may be sensitive to the chemicals used in fabric softeners or dryer sheets. If you have skin allergies or sensitivities, avoiding these products may be beneficial.
If you still want to add a pleasant scent to your laundry without using fabric softeners or dryer sheets, you can try using scented laundry detergents or adding a few drops of essential oil to an unscented laundry product during the wash cycle. Additionally, some dryer balls are made from wool and can help soften fabrics and reduce static cling without the need for fabric softeners or dryer sheets.
In summary, while fabric softeners and dryer sheets offer some benefits, you can safely skip using them without significant negative consequences. Your laundry will still come out clean and mostly soft, and the smell will not persist indefinitely after stopping their use.