How can I line-dry clothes without them feeling so stiff?

Question

When I line dry clothes, they feel really coarse and stiff. When I put them in the dryer, they feel really nice and soft. I don't dry clothes that often to prevent them from shrinking, but I might start drying more since they feel so soft and nice. How can I make line dried clothes feel like this?

Answer 1

toss them on low in the dryer for 10 minutes after they come off the line with a dryer sheet.....so soft! :)

Answer 2

I agree with Linda. Use a liquid fabric softener in the wash (usually there is a special spot in the machine to put the fabric softener). If there isn't, add it during the last rinse stage. The reason clothes are soft coming out of the dryer is because usually people use fabric softening sheets like Bounce in the dryer.

Answer 3

Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the final rinse.  It will soften your clothes, remove any lint, cut and soap residue and leave them smelling nice and fresh.

Answer 4

Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the final rinse. It will soften your clothes, remove any lint, cut and soap residue and leave them smelling nice and fresh. do this and also use only the recommended amount of washing detergent or even half the amount.

hth

Answer 5

Try using a fabric softner like Downey in your final rinse water and then line dry.  That might help.  It's been so long since I last line dried anything!  I know my Mom used to hang sheets out on the line.  That was great.  They always had that wonderful outdoorsie smell to them.  

Answer 6

They feel so nice and soft because they've been pummeled and are wearing out faster! Use a fabric softner (the cheap work just as well as the expensive) and the free, non polluting sun and wind, you will save your clothes, money and the environment all in one healthy go!!