Microfibre cloth fans... is it really true you shouldn't use fabric softener on them?

[ChuckYouFarlie]

I heard this somewhere. Is it true?

That would a major pain in the arse. I want to fling them in the washing machine with towels and sheets on hot wash! I NEED fabric softener in that wash cycle.

mine go in the normal colour wash or coloured towel wash. I use FC on towels too because our water is hard and they come out crispy if I don't.

They're better if you don't use it but it doesn't destroy them.

all mine say not to use fabric softener - sometimes I remember not to use it but sometimes I dont.

Best not to use them as it messes up the fibres. I just whip mine out after the wash, then add fabric conditioner and put the rest of the load back on to rinse/spin.

you should not use softener on towels either

it reduced the absorbancy.

Yes its true, and i suggest hot washing them with towels without softener, much better for cloth towel (& environment)
You can use a glug of white vinegar instead of softener, which will soften them, not coat the fibers, is cheaper and kinder to the world

(if you really want softener try bold powder , where the softener is clay based (not petroleum based) and is safe for use on towels / cloth nappies etc)