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  • 10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More 1
  • 10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More 2
  • 10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More 3
  • 10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More 4
  • 10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More 5

10 Best Fabric Softeners UK 2023 | Method, Ecover and More

You just can’t beat the feeling of climbing into freshly washed and softened sheets, or clothes especially after a bad day. Just a splash of fabric softener in your fabric softener drawer can transform your attire, linens and towels and leave them as fresh as a spring meadow, but how do you know which products are worth your cash and which are going to leave you and your fabrics feeling flat?

Whether you’re looking for softeners for babies, eczema-prone or sensitive skin, natural brands or those with perfumes to turn heads, we got you. We’ll arm you with information to shop confidently, and also provide some ideas with our top 10 buys, including options from Amazon, eBay, and Tesco. From Downy, to Ecover, to Method, there’s a bottle of softener to suit you and your family and get you feeling and smelling fabulous.


Last updated 20/07/2023
mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Fabric Softener in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Select a Natural or Chemical Formula Depending on the Fragrance Intensity You Want
  2. Go for Hypoallergenic Options for Babies and Sensitive Skin
1

Choose Between a Natural or Chemical Formula Based on Your Preferred Intensity of the Fragrance

Choose Between a Natural or Chemical Formula Based on Your Preferred Intensity of the Fragrance

Natural Softeners Are Gentle on the Skin, Environmentally-Friendly and Ideal for Those Who Are Sensitive to Strong Scents

There’s definitely been a boom in the demand for natural alternatives of late, and this has extended beyond personal products to include household items too. Natural fabric conditioners, as the name suggests, are based on materials derived from plants, which are just as effective at softening as their chemical counterparts.

Since you're here, why not explore these eco-friendly laundry detergents?


Because the ingredients are natural, they are biodegradable and non-toxic too, so when they flow out of your pipes and eventually end up in the sea they won’t be as harmful to marine life. Many of these brands are cruelty-free and/or don’t use any animal ingredients, so they are a great choice for those wanting to not only limit their environmental impact but those who are vegan too.


On the whole, softeners containing naturally derived perfumes or essential oils for scent are subtle in fragrance and gentle on easily irritated skin. However they may not be suitable for those who are looking for a softener that brings a powerful, long lasting perfume, and usually they are a bit more expensive than commercial chemical products, so might not benefit those on a tighter budget.

Chemical-Based Softeners Make Your Clothes Super Soft and Have a Stronger, Longer-Lasting Fragrance

Traditional chemical softeners predominantly work by adding a waxy coating to your clothes and fabrics, which is designed to be waterproof to survive the laundry process. This means that everything comes out touchably soft, but it can also mean that sometimes this variety of softener ends up reducing the absorbency of towels, and the effectiveness of sweat resistant fitness gear.

It is recommended that if you do plump for this type of softener, you don’t use it every time you wash your towels or gym wear, so bear this in mind if you don’t have the time to do several separate loads of washing each week.


On the plus side, there’s no denying that traditional fabric conditioners are top of their game in terms of scent, with a number of brands creating products that smell as decadent as any perfume. They’re also produced by big companies that can afford to sell them for a much lower price, making them a luxury that even those without much cash to spare can enjoy.


To make sure that your laundry always comes out squeaky clean, these washing machine cleaners will do the trick.

2

If You Have Sensitive Skin or Have Baby Clothes to Wash, Opt For a Hypoallergenic Fabric Softener

If You Have Sensitive Skin or Have Baby Clothes to Wash, Opt For a Hypoallergenic Fabric Softener
Natural or chemical, shoppers with sensitive skin, eczema, or those looking for a baby-friendly softener will need to take extra care. The best way to do this is to check if the product claims to be hypoallergenic or formulated to minimise irritations and allergies. Be wary of the term “dermatologically tested”, as this simply means a doctor specialising in the skin has reviewed it, and not that it has passed any particular tests.
Whilst those with very sensitive skin are probably used to trying out a few different products before they find one that does not agitate them, opting for hypoallergenic softeners is a good way to get started.

For those with sensitive skin, check out our best laundry detergents for sensitive skin!

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10 Fabric Softeners in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Ecover

Fabric Softener｜Apple Blossom

Ecover Fabric Softener 1枚目

Ecover Fabric Softener Refill Apple Blossom & Almond

2

Comfort Pure

White Fabric Softener

Comfort Pure White Fabric Softener 1枚目

A Gentle, Hypoallergenic Softener With the Classic Scent of Fresh Laundry

3

Method

Ocean Violet Fabric Softener

Method Ocean Violet Fabric Softener 1枚目

Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Eco-Friendly and All Natural

4

Presto! Amazon Brand

White Fabric Softener

Presto! Amazon Brand White Fabric Softener 1枚目

Affordable Multi-Pack of Gentle Softener Suitable for Both Those With Sensitive Skin and Babies

5

Comfort Creations

Honeysuckle & Sandalwood Fabric Conditioner

Comfort Creations Honeysuckle & Sandalwood Fabric Conditioner 1枚目

Exotic, Strong-Smelling Softener That Reduces Static and Wrinkles

6

Ecover

Zero Non Bio Sensitive Fabric Softener

Ecover Zero Non Bio Sensitive Fabric Softener 1枚目

Free From Fragrance, Colours and Parabens and Suitable for Sensitive Skins

7

Downy

Ultra Liquid Fabric Conditioner

Downy Ultra Liquid Fabric Conditioner 1枚目

Concentrated Softener to Combat Stretching, Fading, Fuzz, and Static

8

Attitude Little Ones

Fragrance-Free Fabric Softener

Attitude Little Ones Fragrance-Free Fabric Softener 1枚目

Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free Softener for Sensitive Skins, Skin Conditions and Babies

9

Bio-D

Fragrance-Free Fabric Conditioner

Bio-D Fragrance-Free Fabric Conditioner 1枚目

An All-Natural Product Made From Biodegradable, Sustainable Materials

10

Lenor

Perfume Fabric Conditioner｜Kiss Parfum Des Secrets

Lenor Perfume Fabric Conditioner 1枚目

A Rich and Sweet-Smelling Softener With Hints of Passionfruit and Amber

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Ecover Fabric Softener ｜ Apple Blossom

Fabric Softener Image 1
Source：amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£10.00
    • Reference price
    £10.00

    Ecover Fabric Softener Refill Apple Blossom & Almond

    You’ll actually look forward to laundry day with this completely natural, very effective softener with a gorgeous scent that doesn’t overpower. This product that is suitable for sensitive skin contains a palm oil-free softening active developed from European rapeseed oil, which softens and cares for your clothes.

    It’s certified cruelty-free like all of Ecover’s range, suitable for every skin type, and will biodegrade without harming marine life. And it’s the cheapest natural softener on our list, so you’ve every reason to give it a go!
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    No.2

    Comfort Pure White Fabric Softener

    White Fabric Softener Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £6.00
    • Reference price
    £6.00

    A Gentle, Hypoallergenic Softener With the Classic Scent of Fresh Laundry

    This is about as gentle as you’re going to get for a traditional chemical softener, as it’s hypoallergenic, safe for babies and created in conjunction with the British Skin Foundation.

    This delicate, yet powerful fabric conditioner smooths and softens the fibers of your clothes. Classically scented with the ultimate “fresh laundry” cotton fragrance, and ultra concentrated, it’s an economical buy that will make clothes and bedding cuddly soft with a long-lasting fresh fragrance.
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    No.3

    MethodOcean Violet Fabric Softener

    Ocean Violet Fabric Softener Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £3.33
    • Reference price
    £3.33

    Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Eco-Friendly and All Natural

    Method always impresses with their entire range of all vegan and cruelty-free cleaning products, and this beautifully scented violet fabric softener is no exception. The bottle is 100% recycled plastic too.

    The biodegradable plant-derived ingredients will soften and reduce static and clinging, leaving only fluffy and huggable fabrics behind. A perfect pick for those who want an ethical, perfumed softener without the chemicals.
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    No.4

    Presto! Amazon Brand White Fabric Softener

    White Fabric Softener Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £11.77
    • Reference price
    £11.77

    Affordable Multi-Pack of Gentle Softener Suitable for Both Those With Sensitive Skin and Babies

    If you haven’t tried any of Amazon’s own brand items yet, this exceptionally economical multi-pack is as good an introduction as any. The scent is also wonderfully fresh, with floral and cotton notes.

    For a chemical softener it is among the more gentle and claims to be suitable for babies and sensitive skin, but is not hypoallergenic so may need to be trialled in a smaller pack for allergy sufferers.
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    No.5

    Comfort CreationsHoneysuckle & Sandalwood Fabric Conditioner

    Honeysuckle & Sandalwood Fabric Conditioner Image 1
    Source：tesco.com
    Reference price
    £1.95
    • Reference price
    £1.95

    Exotic, Strong-Smelling Softener That Reduces Static and Wrinkles

    This exotic and downright fabulous smelling softener will not only keep clothes scented for longer, but has been formulated to maintain colour and shine and reduce static and wrinkles. And of course they’ll feel lovely and soft too!

    When it comes the fragrance, honeysuckle and sandalwood, with top notes of tangerine gives your garments luxurious, long-lasting freshness. It’s good value for such a luxurious buy, and will make life much easier for busy families who want to stay stocked up for the next few months.
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    No.6

    EcoverZero Non Bio Sensitive Fabric Softener

    Zero Non Bio Sensitive Fabric Softener Image 1
    Source：waitrose.com
    Reference price
    £2.66
    • Reference price
    £2.66

    Free From Fragrance, Colours and Parabens and Suitable for Sensitive Skins

    Free from fragrance, colours, and parabens, and approved by Allergy UK for sensitive skins, this extremely gentle softener should suit even the most delicate among you. It’s also certified cruelty-free by BUAV, and made from 25% recycled plastic.

    We’d also recommend this as a good option for those who don’t want to reduce absorbency or effectiveness of certain fabrics, and those who aren’t keen on overly powerful scents. You can be confident that this product is vegan and environmentally friendly as it is made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients.
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    No.7

    DownyUltra Liquid Fabric Conditioner

    Ultra Liquid Fabric Conditioner Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £9.92
    • Reference price
    £9.92

    Concentrated Softener to Combat Stretching, Fading, Fuzz, and Static

    Downy April Fresh Fabric Conditioner softens, refreshes, and protects your clothes while leaving a pleasant floral aroma. It is simple to use in both top-loading and front-loading machines to achieve long lasting freshness.

    Simply add a cap full to your next wash to combat stretching, fading, pilling and fuzz, and static on your clothes. When used with a detergent, it is also highly effective at reducing wrinkles. On the downside, the price may be a little steep for some considering the quantity you get in a bottle.

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    No.8

    Attitude Little Ones Fragrance-Free Fabric Softener

    Fragrance-Free Fabric Softener Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £9.07
    • Reference price
    £9.07

    Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free Softener for Sensitive Skins, Skin Conditions and Babies

    As the name suggests, this hypoallergenic, fragrance-free softener is designed for babies and little ones, although it would be a good buy for allergy or eczema prone grown ups too. If you are looking for a gentle yet effective softener for the whole family, this may be it.

    The natural ingredient that delivers the softness is actually derived from coconut, which makes for a lovely and subtle background scent without relying on harsh perfumes. It’s not the cheapest bottle, but it’s one of the safest.
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    No.9

    Bio-D Fragrance-Free Fabric Conditioner

    Fragrance-Free Fabric Conditioner Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £8.08
    • Reference price
    £8.08

    An All-Natural Product Made From Biodegradable, Sustainable Materials

    Using only 3 naturally derived, biodegradable and sustainable raw materials, this gentle softener is fragrance-free and excellent value per load, especially for a natural buy. It preserves fibers while leaving your laundry soft and static-free.

    It’s protective of fabric fibres, as well as being gentle on your skin as it’s hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin types. Even though it’s a little pricey, the large size and concentrated formula will keep you going for a good while.
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    No.10

    Lenor Perfume Fabric Conditioner ｜ Kiss Parfum Des Secrets

    Perfume Fabric Conditioner Image 1
    Source：amazon.co.uk
    Reference price
    £38.95
    • Reference price
    £38.95

    A Rich and Sweet-Smelling Softener With Hints of Passionfruit and Amber

    Inside this sophisticated and stylish bottle is a rich and sweet-smelling fabric conditioner with notes of passion fruit and amber, that claims to stick around on fabrics longer than any perfume and will certainly earn you some compliments.

    If it’s utter softness and an intoxicating scent you’re after, this is the best on the market, but the strength of the perfume and it’s ingredients will probably be a bit much for sensitive noses or skin types.
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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions
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    Where Does Fabric Softener Go?

    Place your fabric softener in the smallest compartment of your washing machine's detergent drawer. It can be identified by a star or a flower. Simply measure the amount you want to use on the cap and pour it into the compartment once you've loaded your clothes and before selecting a wash program.

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    What Is the Symbol for Fabric Softener?

    The symbol for fabric softener in your detergent drawer may differ from one machine to another, but it is usually an asterisk, a star, or a flower.

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    Is Fabric Softener the Same as Fabric Conditioner?

    Yes, both of these are simply different ways of naming fabric conditioners as it does both - softens and conditions your garments. So, you can use both these terms interchangeably.

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    Written and researched by Natasha Dziubajlo

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    Top 5 Fabric Softeners

    No. 1: Ecover ｜Fabric Softener｜Apple Blossom

    No. 2: Comfort Pure ｜White Fabric Softener

    No. 3: Method｜Ocean Violet Fabric Softener

    No. 4: Presto! Amazon Brand ｜White Fabric Softener

    No. 5: Comfort Creations｜Honeysuckle & Sandalwood Fabric Conditioner

    View Full Ranking

    When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
    The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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