Debra Lynn Dadd

Reliable articles about Fabric Softeners

QUESTION:

I am planning to write an article for our neighborhood newsletter to inform and educate people about fabric softeners and dryer sheets. I have MCS and when I go outside I can smell the fabric softener sometimes, so am hoping that this will be a way that will make people think about their use of these products.

I want to provide reliable and believable information about these as well as alternatives to use. I use white vinegar. So I would also like to know of safe alternatives to fabric softeners and dryer sheets in addition to vinegar.

Perhaps there is already a sample article/ letter that I could use.

I think that I might even make a door hanger for close neighbors.

Thank you for any information, articles, or help you can give me to acurately compose this for our newsletter.

POSTED BY DEBBIE :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 11/05/2009 11:58 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

What a wonderful idea! When you finish it, please post it here for others to use as well.

Debra :-)

COMMENTS:

I have never understood why people think fabric softeners are a good idea!

First, they make towels much less absorbent, so they should not be used for towels or sheets or any clothing you want to absorb any light perspiration, as that process makes our skin more comfortable.

Second, if your clothing is all natural fibers, there is no need for fabric softeners, as the clothing doesn't cling together or get static in the dryer.

If you are washing nylon sports clothing, or anything with a lot of polyester, it does much better to hang up to dry (just on regular clothes hangers)... plus they dry really fast, nylon almost instantly. So that saves money on drying, and saves time folding later, as it is quick and easy to fold from hangers.

Lastly, I don't know how people can stand the smell of clothing that has been dried with dryer sheets or scented fabric softeners or detergents -- they smell so strong to me, and so awful.

I have read of studies done that showed that the chemicals act as an irritant to people, and makes them cranky. It sure does for me, if I'm walking in the lovely fresh evening air, and I pass someone's dryer vent with that smell coming out!

Please ask Debra to publish and announce your article when you have finished it, and let us know if it is OK to copy and submit to our own local papers, with your name as author included of course!

Thanks for doing this public service!

POSTED BY DARSHANA :: CALIFORNIA USA :: 11/06/2009 5:37 AM

Debra,
I wanted to clarify what I am looking for.

Would you refer me to reliable, science based information about fabric softeners/ dryer sheets?
By reliable, I mean for the skeptic to be convinced by, not just someone\'s experience.

For example; What kind of chemicals are put into the air, what does it do to the environment, why is it so harmful to people with allergies, sensitivities, or COPD.

I am also looking for things to suggest people use instead of fabric softener/dryer sheets, in addition to vinegar. Safe products or other alternatives.

Thank you so much and I am so very thankful for all the work you do.

COMMENT FROM DEBRA: I don't know that there is reliable, science-based information about fabric softeners/dryer sheets per se. The primary problem with fabric softeners is the scent, but they also contain many other toxic chemicals.

Take a look at this brochure: www.mcs-america.org/fabricsoftener.pdf. The writer has MCS and collected ingredients from MSDS's. Here is another article that lists the toxic ingredients and offers solutions: www.detox.net.au/articles/detox/a-natural-organic-fabric-softener.html

I don't think that toxicity studies have been done on fabric softener, but you can take those chemicals listed and research the science-based health effects associated with those chemicals and cite those studies.

On page 123 of my book Home Safe Home, I suggest using the unscented sheets, or baking soda.

Seventh Generation makes Natural Fabric Softener and Natural Fabric Softener Sheets, with canola and soy oils, respectively. You might check with Seventh Generation for the science-based studies you seek. They've done a lot of research on the health and environmental effects of household cleaners. Also try Environmental Working Group.

I personally don't use fabric softener because it isn't necessary with natural fibers. I understand, though, you need an alternative for your neighbors who are probably wearing and washing synthetics.

POSTED BY DEBBIE :: NEW MEXICO USA :: 11/11/2009 10:37 AM

Hi,

I totally agree, I don't understand why people want to use this stuff. Here is a website that might help you out Debbie concerning Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets, www.naturallythriving.com/articles/toxins5.php. An alternative to dryer sheets is Static Eliminator's. You might be able to get to it at www.shop.sixwise.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=155.
Hopes this helps.

POSTED BY ANNETTE TWEEDEL :: LOUISIANA USA :: 11/16/2009 12:29 PM

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