Fabric softeners- not the same?

I think there was a thread about this a little while back.
It must have been fairly riveting, because it was quite a long discussion, I think?

I've stopped using them unless I think some garments could be 'clingy' without softener.
And I must say that I have not noticed any pinkish 'mould' appearing around the soap/conditioner tray as it used to when I used conditioner.

I still use them but they don't seem to be as strong now that you mention it. Clothes don't feel soft or smell fragrant. I may try not using it and compare. I use a delicate liquid for my tops and cardis etc. so maybe thats enough.

I too have stopped using them, on medical advice because of a skin complaint. I agree with the OP that they don't seem to do the softening part of the job as well as they used to, so I haven't noticed any difference since stopping their use. Except, of course, my washing no longer smells overpoweringly of sickly, artificial scent. And I don't miss that one bit.
Funny, because years ago I used to love the smell of clothes rinsed in a good quality fabric conditioner - now I cannot stand it.

That's funny, Bathsheba, I don't like the smell any more either. It must be four or five years since I last used conditioner and don't miss it at all. It gunks up the washing machine anyway.

If I do use one I use the Ecover brand.

I stopped using them a few years ago.
It just seemed that they were heading down a huge marketing road.
Anti bacterial, anti bobbling..

I stopped using them years ago. Never had any problems with my clothes after they've been washed.

I don't use conditioner on my hair either and have no problems with it.

Must have saved £'s over the years although that was not why I stopped using these products.

I stopped using fabric conditioner some years ago and it makes no difference to my wash. I stopped using ironing water too.

Thanks ladies , had a sneaky feeling it had been diluted to nothing except the “smell “

I also stopped using conditioner years ago and like Melanieeastanglia money was not the main reason but my purse has benefited.

I also use one of the cheapest Bio tablets because I personally think that it is all getting out of control.

I am another who has never used conditioner or any gunk on my hair.