Myth: Fabric softeners are confusing and not really needed. Bust: False! Just like hair conditioner softens and smooths your hair, using Downy Fabric Softener makes clothes softer by conditioning fabric fibers. By conditioning clothes, Downy also protects them against fading, fuzz, and stretching. P&G Laundry Scientist Sammy W. says if you want to optimize taking care of your laundry, @Downy Fabric Softener should be in your laundry rooms! “Downy isn’t just about softer-feeling clothes; it’s about caring for your fabrics. Downy is released in the rinse phase of the wash process to condition, soften and freshen clothes after they’ve been cleaned by detergent in the wash phase,” said Sammy.