How to Make Hoodies Soft Again

A hoodie isn’t just another piece of clothing—it’s a comfort essential. Over time, however, even the softest hoodie can turn rough, stiff, or uncomfortable due to improper washing, detergent buildup, or excessive heat. But don’t worry! If you’re wondering how to make hoodies soft again, we’ve covered you with expert-approved solutions to restore that cozy, plush feel you love.

Why Do Hoodies Lose Their Softness?

Before we get into the solutions, let’s understand the main culprits behind rough, stiff hoodies:

• Detergent & Fabric Softener Residue – Excess detergent and softeners leave behind a film that builds up over time, stiffening the fabric.
• Hard Water Minerals – If your water contains a lot of minerals, it can build up on fabric over time, leaving it feeling rough and less comfortable.
• High Heat Exposure – Frequent drying at high temperatures weakens fibers, causing shrinkage and stiffness.
• Overwashing – Washing too often, especially with strong detergents, degrades fabric softness.
• Low-Quality Fabric – Some hoodies are made from synthetic blends that naturally lose softness quicker than premium cotton or fleece.

Now, let’s explore the best ways to restore your hoodie’s softness and keep it feeling fresh and cozy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hoodies Soft Again

1. Use White Vinegar as a Natural Softener

White vinegar is a game-changer for fabric care. It breaks down detergent buildup, eliminates odors, and naturally softens fibers.

How to Use:

• To keep fabrics soft, add between ½ and 1 cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser before starting the wash cycle.
• Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle and use cold water to clean your hoodie without damaging the fabric.
• Skip commercial fabric softeners—they can create buildup over time.

2. Baking Soda for Deep Fiber Softening

Baking soda is another powerful natural softener that neutralizes residue and freshens fabric.

How to Use:

• Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the washer drum before running your laundry..
• Opt for a mild soap and cold water to keep your fabrics fresh.
• Hang your hoodie to air dry for the best results.

3. Choose a Gentle, Eco-Friendly Detergent

Harsh detergents often leave behind chemicals that cause stiffness. Switching to a mild detergent helps maintain softness.

Best Practices:

• Use half the recommended detergent amount to prevent buildup.
• Liquid detergent works better in cold water, so it’s a smart choice over powder.
• Look for plant-based or hypoallergenic detergents with no artificial dyes or fragrances.

4. Wash on a Gentle Cycle & Turn Hoodies Inside Out

A rough wash cycle can cause unnecessary wear on fabric fibers, leading to stiffness.

What to Do:

• Always turn hoodies inside out before washing.
• Select the gentle/delicate wash cycle.
• Wash with similar soft fabrics to reduce friction damage.

5. Skip the Dryer or Use Low Heat with Dryer Balls

Heat is one of the biggest culprits behind stiff, uncomfortable hoodies.

Best Drying Methods:

• Air Drying: Lay your hoodie flat or hang it on a rack to preserve fiber integrity.
• Low Heat Drying: Set your dryer to a gentle, low heat or turn the heat off to keep your hoodie safe.
• Toss in some wool dryer balls or a clean tennis ball to help loosen the fibers and bring back that fluffy feel.

6. Try Natural Fabric Softener Alternatives

Instead of commercial softeners, which can build up on fabric, opt for natural solutions:

• Wool Dryer Balls – Helps keep fabric soft without chemicals.
• Hair Conditioner Soak – Mix 1 teaspoon of conditioner with water, soak the hoodie for 30 minutes, then rinse.
• A Touch of Glycerin – Add a few drops to your rinse cycle for extra softness.

7. Steam or Iron on Low Heat to Relax Fibers

If your hoodie feels stiff after washing, steam treatment can help loosen up fibers.

How to Use:

• Hang the hoodie in the bathroom while taking a hot shower to allow steam to penetrate the fabric.
• Let a handheld steamer work its magic, releasing a gentle mist that unwinds stiff fibers and brings back that soft, lived-in feel.
• If you’re using an iron, set it to the lowest heat and place a damp cloth over the hoodie to shield the fabric while smoothing out stiffness.

8. Soak in a Fabric Conditioner Bath for Maximum Softness

For extremely stiff hoodies, a deep fabric conditioner soak can restore plushness.

How to Do It:

1. Fill a large basin with cold water.
2. Add ¼ cup of fabric conditioner.
3. Submerge the hoodie and let it soak for 30-60 minutes.
4. Thoroughly rinse with cold water and allow it to dry naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bleach a Good Option for Softening My Hoodie?

No, bleach weakens fibers, making your hoodie rougher over time.

What’s the Ideal Washing Frequency to Keep My Hoodie Soft?

Wash hoodies only when necessary—every 4-5 wears—to minimize fiber damage.

Can I Make an Old Hoodie Feel Brand New Again?

Yes! Using a combination of vinegar, baking soda, and proper drying methods can restore the softness of older hoodies.

What Is the Best Way to Store Hoodies to Keep Them Soft?

• Fold, don’t hang, to prevent stretching.
• Store in a cool, dry place to prevent fabric compression.
• Avoid overcrowding your closet, which can flatten the hoodie’s fibers.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Hoodie Soft for Years

Bringing your hoodie back to its original softness isn’t complicated—it’s all about the right care techniques. By using natural softeners like vinegar and baking soda, washing on a gentle cycle, and air drying properly, you can ensure your hoodie stays cozy, plush, and ultra-soft for years to come.

Now it’s your turn! Test out these techniques and share which one gave you the best results!