This Laundry Staple May Be Creating A Mold Problem In Your Washing Machine

It's common practice to add a capful of fabric softener to your load of laundry, but the popular laundry add-on could be causing more harm than good for your washing machine. It may make your clothes smell like fresh flowers or an ocean breeze. However, it could also cause a major mold issue for you down the line. When @homeishwithcorrin shared via TikTok that her top-load washer had tons of mold and grime, several of the comments pointed out that fabric softener was likely the culprit. Over time, fabric softener can make residue build up, which can then turn into mildew.

In fact, fabric softeners could do more than create a mold problem. In another TikTok, Consumer Reports test engineer Rich Handel revealed, "Never use fabric softener. It's a waste of money. Not only can it irritate sensitive skin, but it can also leave a layer of residue on your clothes and reduce the absorption of your towels." The main reason people use softeners is for the scent and, of course, to soften their clothes. However, there are plenty of alternatives that won't cause the above but will leave your clothes baby-soft.

One of the more well-known fabric softener alternatives is wool dryer balls. These balls reduce static and naturally make your clothes feel soft to the touch. If you want to add scent, essential oils are a great way to do this. Add one or two drops of your favorite oil scent to each wool dryer ball before you put the machine on. The scent will disperse throughout your laundry. Another good fabric softener alternative is vinegar. Known for its use as a kitchen ingredient but also as a cleaner, adding 1/2 cup of white vinegar to your machine will get rid of any lingering residue on your clothes that may cause stiffness. Don't add vinegar too often, though. Overuse of vinegar in your machine could damage the hoses and seals.

Moreover, it may sound a little odd, but pantry essential baking soda is an excellent addition to your laundry room. It will balance out the pH levels in your washing machine, leaving clothes nice and soft. Add 1/2 cup to your washer the next time you put on a load to see the difference. However, neither vinegar nor baking soda is scented (we promise the vinegar smell won't stick around), so if you like using fabric conditioner for the scent, try wool dryer balls.