Commercial can serve many purposes, from reducing static cling to, of course, making your clothes feel soft and fluffy. But if you've run out of your favorite fabric softener or are looking for DIY alternatives, there are many reliable substitutes, ranging from common household cleaners like vinegar to simple tools like wool dryer balls.

Each of the ingredients and methods below are expert-approved alternatives, to help you achieve the same desired softness you would with your preferred store-bought fabric softener.

Ocean Van is the owner of Coco Laundry.

Alex Varela is the general manager of Dallas Maids.

Fabric softener can be used for a variety of reasons, beyond what the title implies. Perhaps you use fabric softener to prevent static cling, or maybe you just like the fragrance it leaves behind. Whatever the reason, it's important to note that fabric softener is not an absolutely necessary ingredient for washing fabric.