Have just updated our 15 year old bathroom towel sets with 2 new sets. For the past 30 odd years have always used fabric softener in any and all washes (I know not to use it with micro cleaning cloths).

After purchasing these new towels and prior to their 'before use' first wash to get rid of manufacturing chemicals and to do an initial de-fluff, I did some research about using fabric softener with towels . 99% of the research stated DO NOT use with towels - ever - as it dramatically reduces their drying ability. I must say after two uses and two wash & dry - one via a wet day machine dryer and the other a very hot sunny day outside line, I am never going back to using fabric softener with towels. They are definitely softer and have better drying abilities than my old towel sets which were always a bit stiff whether line dried or machine dried.

My research did state however that for heavy duty work clothes, bed sheets and other non-delicates, fabric softener is good as to protects the fabric from general wear and tear.

What are forum members thoughts on fabric softener and what sort of washes do you or do not use it in?