For a gentler version, use 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of fabric softener and 1 cup (240 mL) of water. [3] X Research source
If you have sensitive skin, pull on a pair of rubber gloves. Alternatively, use a stick or jar to press the fabric squares down.
The fabric squares will still be wet at this point, so make sure that the surface you’re setting them down on is water-resistant.
How long it takes for the fabric to dry will depend on how hot and humid it is. It will dry faster in warmer, drier climates. Expect to wait a few hours, however. Don’t use a dryer to speed up the process. You want these to air dry. If you diluted the fabric softener with water, you don’t need to let the fabric squares dry. Simply store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. [7] X Research source
If you soaked the fabric squares, pour some of the diluted fabric softener into the container too. This will prevent them from drying out. You want these to be wet when you use them.
A single sheet made from full-strength fabric softener will last 10 to 12 loads. After that, you’ll have to re-soak and dry it again. [10] X Research source If you used diluted fabric softener, you’ll have to re-soak your sheets with more diluted fabric softener before every use.
If you’re using a thick, absorbent material, such as towels, use 1 cup (240 mL) of vinegar instead.
If you doubled the amount of vinegar, then double the amount of essential oil. About 16 to 20 drops will do. You can find essential oils online and in health food stores. Do not use fragrance oils meant for candle-making or diffusers; they’re not the same thing.
Avoid handling the vinegar with your bare hands if you have sensitive skin or any cuts on your hands. Vinegar is very strong and may cause a burning sensation.
You need to include the solution in the container because you’ll be using the sheets while they are still damp.
This should be enough for 1 load of laundry; if you’re drying only a few articles of clothing, then 1 sheet should be enough.
After the cycle ends, take the used sheets out and place them back into the vinegar solution with the rest of the dryer sheets. They will absorb the vinegar and become as good as new!
You can increase or decrease the amounts, as long as you use a ratio of 3 parts conditioner and 1 part vinegar. If possible, use a natural, organic hair conditioner that’s free of sulfates, parabens, dimethicone, artificial preservatives, and synthetic fragrances. Use whatever type of conditioner you want. Since this isn’t going to do anything for your hair, a cheap, inexpensive brand would work just fine.
Pull on some gloves or use a jar to press down on the fabric if you’ve got sensitive skin. The conditioner won’t hurt you, but the vinegar might cause a burning sensation.
You can also hang the sheets from a clothesline or a drying rack. How long it takes for the sheets to dry will vary. They’ll dry faster in hot, dry climates, however. Don’t speed the process up by using a clothes dryer. The sheets need to air dry.
Each sheet will last about 3 loads. After that, you’ll have to re-soak the sheets.
