Fabric Softener

How does fabric softener work? According to Wikipedia:

Cationic softeners bind by electrostatic attraction to the negatively charged groups on the surface of the fibers and neutralize their charge; the long aliphatic chains are then oriented towards the outside of the fiber, imparting lubricity.

So, some fancy chemistry stuff occurs and makes fabric more slippery, and as a result, softer feeling. One drawback to this fancy chemistry stuff is these reactions cause the fabric to become less absorbent. According to  Wikipedia, you shouldn't use fabric softeners for towels, diapers, or anything else you want to absorb water. Good quality, all-cotton towels will become plenty soft after a few washings. Towels still feel rough? Scrunch the towels up and scrub them against each other. The fibers will loosen up.