Are you tired of feeling like you need a chemistry degree just to decipher the ingredients list on your fabric softener bottle? Me too! After trying most of the best clean fabric softener brands in Canada, I created a list of the top-performing options based on 3 non-negotiable criteria.
1) All non-toxic fabric softener formulas should be certified natural, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals. 2) The liquid, sheets, or pods have to be HE compatible and, 3) The packaging should be recyclable, compostable, and/or zero-waste.
Read on to find your next favourite fabric softener without chemicals from the vetted and verified list below.
Spoiler alert: It will work great with any of these delicious smelling, clean laundry detergent brands in Canada.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Top Non-Toxic, Clean Fabric Softener Brands in Canada
As someone who’s always on the hunt for natural cleaning alternatives to keep my home toxin-free, I’ve had my fair share of battles with conventional fabric softeners and laundry detergents. While regular formulas might work for some people, my super-sensitive skin doesn’t allow much experimentation. You can thank contact dermatitis and my numerous chemical sensitivities for that.
To put it simply, as soon as I crack open that bottle of fabric softener, the overwhelming scent can actually trigger a migraine. According to my doctor, that’s because irritants travel through sensory nerves and affect my trigeminovascular system.
If this wasn’t enough, certain chemicals in detergents, softeners, and even hand soaps cause flare ups.
If you too deal with itchy skin, irritated lungs, headaches, and that nagging feeling that you’re sacrificing your health for the sake of soft socks, it’s time to give the least toxic fabric softener a try.
Not only are the best non-toxic fabric softeners in Canada gentler on your clothes and your body, but they also work like a charm to keep your laundry feeling soft and smelling fresh.
They won’t build up on the fibers, or leave behind a residue that makes fabrics less absorbent and more prone to trapping dirt and grime. Plus, they won’t weaken the fibers themselves which is a huge plus.
Here’s a list of the best natural fabric softeners without chemicals to tackle your weekly household chores with ease. From eco-friendly pods and liquids to organic fabric softener sheets, there’s something for everyone.
Best Non-Toxic Fabric Softener in Canada, at a glance
- Best non-toxic overall: Dropps
- Best smelling fabric softener: Mrs. Meyer’s
- Best for allergies: Attitude
- Safest for babies with sensitive skin: Clean People
- Best for towels: Molly’s Suds
- Best for wrinkles: Tru Earth
- Most affordable: Ecover
- Best anti-static: Kind Laundry
- Best natural fabric softener sheets: Seventh Generation
Is It True You Shouldn’t Use Fabric Softener?
It’s true that traditional fabric softeners may not be the best choice for your clothes or the environment. Many conventional fabric softeners contain synthetic fragrances, dyes, and chemicals that can leave residues on your clothes, causing them to feel stiff and reducing their absorbency over time. Also, these chemicals can be harsh on sensitive skin and may contribute to environmental pollution when washed down the drain.
The easiest alternative? Opting for the best clean fabric softener brands in Canada.
Fabric softeners without chemicals are plant-based and non-toxic options that are gentle on both your clothes and the planet. These natural choices are free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Not only do natural fabric softeners leave your clothes feeling soft and cozy, but they also help to maintain their quality and absorbency over time. Plus, they’re biodegradable
Toxic Chemicals To Avoid In Fabric Softeners
Synthetic fragrances: One commonly used chemical is synthetic fragrances, which are added to impart a pleasant scent to laundry. While these fragrances may smell nice, they often contain phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors and can have adverse effects on hormone levels and reproductive health.
Ammonium: Another chemical of concern is quaternary ammonium compounds, or “quats,” which are used as fabric-softening agents. Quats effectively reduce static cling and soften fabrics, however, they can also cause skin irritation and respiratory issues, particularly for individuals with allergies or asthma.
Artificial dyes: Many conventional fabric softeners contain artificial dyes, which can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. These dyes may also pose environmental risks, as they can leach into waterways and harm aquatic ecosystems.
Benzyl acetate: This chemical is often used as a solvent and fragrance ingredient in fabric softeners. It has been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract.
Ethanol: Ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is used as a solvent and drying agent in fabric softeners. While it helps to dissolve other ingredients and aid in the drying process, it can also contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause respiratory irritation.
What To Look For When Shopping for Natural Fabric Softeners In Canada?
Only natural ingredients: Look for clean fabric softener formulas that are made with natural, plant-based ingredients. Check the label for a list of ingredients and avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances, dyes, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals.
Here’s a list of non-toxic ingredient alternatives:
- Natural surfactants derived from plant oils, such as coconut or palm kernel oil, are effective at softening clothes without leaving behind a residue.
- Vegetable glycerin is a natural humectant derived from plant oils, such as coconut or soybean oil. It helps to attract moisture to the fabric, leaving clothes feeling soft and smooth. Vegetable glycerin is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- Citric acid is a natural compound found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. It helps to balance the pH of the fabric softener and remove mineral deposits from hard water, ensuring that clothes come out soft and residue-free.
- Choose natural preservatives derived from natural sources, such as rosemary extract or grapefruit seed extract, which are effective at preserving the integrity of the product without the need for synthetic chemicals.
- Emulsifiers help to disperse the active ingredients evenly throughout the fabric softener and prevent separation. Choose natural emulsifiers that are biodegradable and derived from renewable resources, such as plant-based fatty acids or lecithin.
- Last, but not least, the most effective and least toxic fabric softener formulas contain enzymes derived from plant sources, such as protease or amylase, which help to break down stains and improve the softening effect. Enzymes are biodegradable and environmentally friendly, making them a great addition to natural fabric softeners.
Essential oils instead of synthetic fragrance: If you prefer scented fabric softeners, choose products that are scented with natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. Essential oils not only provide a pleasant aroma but also offer potential therapeutic benefits. Be sure to check the label for specific scent options and choose one that aligns with your preferences.
Hypoallergenic: If you or your family members have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic fabric softeners that are dermatologist-tested and suitable for sensitive skin. These products are formulated to minimize the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions, making them ideal for individuals with sensitivities.
Eco-friendly packaging: When you choose the best non-toxic fabric softener in Canada, consider the environmental impact of the packaging. Make sure that the product is packaged in recyclable or biodegradable materials to minimize waste and reduce your carbon footprint.
Cruelty-free formulations: Most non-toxic fabric softener brands are certified cruelty-free and not tested on animals. Double-check for logos or certifications from reputable organizations such as Leaping Bunny or PETA to verify that the natural or organic fabric softener has not been tested on animals at any stage of production.
Compatibility: Before making a purchase, make sure that the fabric softener you choose is compatible with your washing machine and laundry detergent. Some clean fabric softeners may be specifically designed for use with certain types of washing machines or detergents, so check the manufacturer’s recommendations before purchasing.
Which Is The Safest Fabric Softener in Canada?
Dropps Pods is the safest natural fabric softener in Canada. To help keep clothes full and soft, they used natural minerals and absolutely no enzymes or dyes. The pods are made from a water-soluble casing called Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), which dissolves completely upon contact with water.
What non-toxic Fabric Softener Is Made In Canada?
The Attitude natural laundry fabric softener is made in Canada from dermatologically tested, naturally sourced ingredients. Designed to be gentle yet efficient on both high-efficiency (HE) and standard washers, it leaves clothes feeling soft and cozy without any harmful chemicals. It’s also 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The bottle is crafted from HDPE #2 plastic (a.k.a the easiest plastic to recycle).
Best Clean Fabric Softener Brands For Sensitive Skin In Canada
1. Attitude Natural Laundry Fabric Softener Liquid
In addition to premium-quality, non-toxic dish soaps, the Canada-based company Attitude develops many more natural personal care and household products, including natural fabric softeners. This vegan formula is gentle yet effective, perfect for keeping your family’s clothes looking and feeling great. It’s rapidly biodegradable and made from 98 % naturally sourced ingredients. Harnessing the uplifting scent of wildflowers extract, Attitude’s least toxic fabric softener not only cleans but also boosts energy levels so that your clothes smell fresh for days!
Price: $8.79
Eco certifications: PETA Vegan, Ecologo
Scents: Wildflowers, Citrus Zest, Grapefruit, Unscented
2. Ecover Plant-Based Fabric Softener
The Ecover clean fabric softener is formulated to help reduce static while softening and freshening clothes. If you have delicate skin, rest assured knowing that this liquid is made with clean ingredients. It’s dermatologically tested and suitable for septic tanks which I absolutely love.
Plus, The bottle is crafted from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, with the cap made from 50% recycled plastic, making it widely recyclable. To top it all off, this fabric softener without chemicals along with every other cleaning solution is produced in Ecover’s Zero Waste-certified factory!
Price: $6.79
Eco certifications: B-certified corporation, made in the USA, cruelty-free
Scents: Morning Fresh
3.Molly’s Suds All Natural Fabric Softener Sheets
Molly’s Suds is a staple brand in every household – and for a good reason. They offer some of the cleanest cleaning formulas for the entire home. Touted as one of the best non-toxic fabric softeners in Canada, these dryer sheets for sensitive skin are a natural and effective solution for soft, static-free clothes.
With 97% plant-based ingredients, they’re gentle on both skin and the environment, leaving your laundry feeling fresh and cozy. Infused with essential oils and free from waxes, dyes, harsh fragrances, and animal derivatives, these sheets provide a light and airy scent. What’s more, the natural fabric softeners are compostable and easy to use and can be recycled after use.
Just toss one sheet with your wet clothes into the dryer, following garment care instructions, or use half a sheet for smaller loads. For extra fragrance and softness, use two sheets.
Price: $24.64
Eco certifications: Cruelty-Free by Leaping Bunny, Made in the USA, Better Choice
Scents: Peppermint, Lavender, Unscented
4. DROPPS Natural Fabric Softener Pods
For the best clean fabric softener brands in Canada, look no further than Dropps. I used their Laundry Booster Pacs last year and I was impressed. The booster leaves no residue on the clothes and it’s gentle enough for the baby’s skin. Let alone my eczema-prone skin. Don’t let the gentle ingredients fool you though. This best-smelling fabric softener gives a natural, extra boost of softness and a long-lasting clean fragrance. The box contains 120 pre-measured clean scent booster packs that can perform wonders in all temperatures, all fabrics, and all colors.
Plus, their products are cruelty-free, never tested on animals, and packaged in compostable, recyclable, plastic-free materials.
Price: $107.27
Eco certifications: B-certified corporation, 7 EPA Safer Choice, USDA Certified Biobased, Leaping Bunny certified
Scents: Clean
5.Tru Earth Non-Toxic Fabric Softener Strips
Over 1,700 Amazon reviews agree that Tru Earth is one of the best clean fabric softener brands Canada has to offer. These ultra-concentrated, patent-pending strips work great on all your clothes, delicates, bed sheets, curtains, and other fabrics while also significantly reducing wrinkles. Because they are designed to dissolve completely in any standard or HE washing machine, you won’t need to deal with plastic jugs and messy spills ever again.
Their gentle formula is paraben-free, phosphate-free, and cruelty-free. Take your pick from the two available scents – Fresh Linen or fragrance-free.
Price: $12.76
Eco certifications: B-certified corporation, vegan, plastic-free recyclable packaging
Scents: Fresh Linen, Fragrance Free
6.Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Fabric Softener
Not many non-toxic fabric softener brands in Canada can rival the long-lasting scent of Mrs. Meyer’s lavender natural fabric softener. The company is big on aromatherapy, so if you prefer unscented formulas, this might not be the right option for you. The cruelty-free, liquid fabric softener is powered by FreshBloom™ technology which provides up to 60 days of lasting freshness with 74 loads per bottle. It not only brightens colours but also tackles tough stains like grass, oil, and wine. Plus, Mrs. Meyer’s uses recyclable packaging with fewer pumps and caps to reduce waste.
Price: $50.24
Eco certifications: Leaping Bunny certified, Ellen MacArthur Foundation partners, meets European OECD standards, RSPO-certified
Scents: Lavender
7. Clean People Natural Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets
Clean People offers laundry pods, stain solutions, and one top-rated clean fabric softener available in 5 different scents. These natural fabric softener dryer sheets are perfect for even the most sensitive skin because they solely feature plant-based ingredients and are free of animal products. They are designed to leave clothes feeling soft and static-free. Mind you, 1300+ reviewers agree with that!
And no worries, you won’t find any harmful chemicals like phosphates, parabens, or chlorine bleach in this box. Plus, with 160 sheets per pack, you can enjoy 160 soft and static-free loads.
Price: $20.10
Eco certifications: Vegan & cruelty-free, EWQ verified
Scents: Lavender, Sweet Petals, Spring Scent, Fresh Clean, Unscented
8. Kind Laundry’s Wool Dryer Balls
As the name probably tells, Kind Laundry is the mecca of eco-friendly solutions. Their lineup includes zero-waste laundry strips, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional detergent, and the least toxic fabric softener – wool dryer balls! These felt laundry balls speed up drying time by 25% – just toss three balls into the washer to create air pockets that help clothes dry faster, reduce wrinkles, and prevent static cling while saving energy and money.
Unlike regular sheets, these balls are made from 100% pure New Zealand wool, so they are natural, organic, and free from synthetic fillers and fragrances. What’s more, they last for up to 1000 loads. So despite the initial investment, they’re a cost-effective option in the long run.
Price: $29.74
Eco certifications: Certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, USDA BioPreferred
Scents: Fragrance-Free
9. Seventh Generation Fabric Softening Sheets
Thousands of eco-conscious folks agree that Seventh Generation is amongst the best clean fabric softener brands in Canada for people with sensitive skin. They are completely free from dyes and fragrances which means that you won’t have to deal with any allergic reactions. These hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested sheets can reduce static cling and are made from 97% plant-based materials.
What makes them really stand out is their certification – this is a USDA-Certified Biobased Product. This basically means that this organic fabric softener contains a USDA-verified amount of renewable biological ingredients. So, there’s no greenwashing here!
Price: $42.14
Eco certifications: B-certified corporation, Leaping bunny certified, USDA certified bio-based, EPA safer choice
Scents: Fragrance-Free
Clean Clean Fabric Softener Brands Canada FAQs
When should I use a natural fabric softener?
Natural fabric softeners are a great choice whenever you want to add extra softness and freshness to your laundry while prioritizing the health of your family and the environment. I learned the hard way that If you live in an area with hard water, mineral deposits can leave your clothes feeling stiff and rough. Fabric softeners containing ingredients like citric acid can help neutralize these minerals and restore softness to your laundry. On top of that, they can help reduce static cling in your laundry, making clothes easier to fold and less likely to cling together or stick to your skin.
If you or your family members have sensitive skin or allergies, using a natural fabric softener can help reduce irritation and discomfort. Plus, unlike most regular options, natural and clean fabric softeners are especially well-suited for use with delicate fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool.
Is fabric softener for all clothes?
Unlike chemical formulas, non-toxic fabric softeners are ideal for all clothes. Whether you’re washing delicate fabrics like silk or wool, everyday garments like cotton t-shirts, or performance fabrics like activewear, a natural fabric softener can help keep them soft, fresh, and comfortable. However, it’s always a good idea to check the care labels on your clothing for any specific instructions or restrictions regarding fabric softener use. Some specialty fabrics or garments with special finishes may have specific care requirements that should be followed to ensure their longevity and performance.
Which is the best clean fabric softener for eczema & sensitive skin?
ATTITUDE Sensitive Skin Fabric Softener is the best option for eczema and sensitive skin. The formula is free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. The advanced power comes straight from plant-based ingredients that are mild on the skin.
This post was about the cleanest fabric softener brands in Canada
When it comes to my laundry routine, I’m all about keeping it clean – in more ways than one! That’s why I’ll always choose the best clean fabric softener brands in Canada
Instead of their chemical-laden counterparts. Not only do natural fabric softeners leave my clothes feeling soft and cozy, but they also give me peace of mind knowing that I’m not exposing myself or the planet to harmful toxins. Plus, with gentle ingredients derived straight from Mother Nature herself, I can rest easy knowing that I won’t have to deal with sudden rashes. And to top it all off, these non-toxic fabric softeners come in eco-friendly packaging! What more can we ask for?
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