Fabric softener is bad for your washing machine and clothes. Consumer Reports offer tips to make your clothes soft and nice-smelling without any gross residue.

In the dryer, residue from dryer sheets and fabric softener-coated clothes can coat moisture sensors, causing overheating issues. It's important to clean your washing machine and dryer regularly ...

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

Washing your sheets with a softener helps to minimize static cling, particularly in dry climates. You could also try this Gain Fabric Softener from Amazon, priced at $16.29.

As long as you use the shower regularly, any residue from the fabric softener will be rinsed away. Related: How to Clean Glass Shower Doors for a Bathroom That Sparkles 4. Stainless Steel ...

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

But its effectiveness comes at a cost: Fabric softener can reduce flame resistance on children’s sleepwear, and residue buildup in the machine can create a healthy environment for mildew to grow.

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.

Residue: Fabric softeners leave a residue on fabrics — especially on fleece and flannel. This same residue can also build up inside the washing machine and lead to mold.