OT - fabric softener

[springer02]

DH just returned with a cedar chest full of things he inherited from his aunt.  There are lots of like-new towels, sheets, comforters etc. but she used loads of fabric softener, to the point that the towels never soaked up water and everything feels "funny"  - can't think how to describe it.

I seem to recall reading something about putting baking soda, or was it vinegar, or something else, in the wash to get rid of the build up of fabric softener?  I hate to send all of this stuff to the cleaners, I washed one load of towels in hot water with my regular detergant and they don't feel much better.

Help!  And thanks in advance for your replies!

Tena

[cyclone]

I don't have any idea what helps this, but you might try contacting your county or state extension service.  I know that many states have an answer line you can call (a friend of mine works for the one in Iowa).  I'm guessing that by the end of the day someone will either have an answer for you or have at least googled possible remedies so that phone call probably won't be necessary.

[HersheyGirl]

I seem to remember something about 1 cup of vinegar per wash load to rid the fabric softner.  Might try look it up on Martha's web site, she would know.  Good luck.

Late edition....this is what I got from Martha.....

Towel Tune-Up                                                                                                                                                   Are your towels holding less water than they used to? It may be that your choice of washing detergent contains fabric softener, which has residues that cling to individual fibers, rendering towels less absorbent. The next time you clean a load, add a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle; it will remove the residue and restore towels' soaking power. In the future, avoid detergents with fabric softener when washing towels.                           

[Camping Coxes]

Coincidentally, this was in today's column of Helpful Hints from Heloise.  Hope it helps.  IF the cleaning method gets rid of the "malodorous smell," maybe it will get rid of your build-up of fabric softener.  
 
Dear Heloise: In one of your columns, you featured a note from a reader who has a problem with her bath towels having a malodorous smell. In response to her issue, you had recommended: "You really shouldn't use fabric softener (liquid or sheets), either. These softeners can cause a buildup, and the towels will not absorb water as well. Check the manufacturer's label