Fabuloso is a common cleaning product known to effectively remove stains from various surfaces such as bathrooms and kitchen countertops, tiles, floors, and more. Some consumers have even used this product to wash their clothes for its fragrant scent. 

Fabuloso’s official website does not state whether this product can or cannot be used to wash clothes. However, we’ve tested this several times to find that Fabuloso can be used for laundry, albeit with several potential side effects such as stiffness, faster wear, and others, over the long term. While you can use Fabuloso to wash your clothes, we recommend sticking to high-quality detergents and softeners.  

In this article, we share some long-term effects of washing clothes with Fabuloso and a safe guide on how to use it if you have no other alternatives. We’ll also share some essential safety precautions to take if you decide to use Fabuloso for your laundry.

What Is Fabuloso?

Fabuloso is a renowned brand of household cleaning products that are highly regarded for their exceptional general-purpose cleaning capabilities. Available in liquid form, these products offer a convenient and effective way to clean surfaces and remove dirt, stains, and grime from various areas of your home. 

fabuloso cleaner (test on clothes)

One of the distinct features of Fabuloso is the long-lasting fragrance it leaves behind after each cleaning session, ensuring cleanliness and a pleasant scent throughout your living space. This is also one reason why some consumers have tried using it to wash their clothes.

The brand also boasts a diverse range of offerings, each with its own unique scent as listed below.

  • Multi-Purpose Cleaner, 2X Concentrated Formula (Lavender, Lemon, Passion of Fruits, Tropical Spring, Citrus and Fruits with Baking Soda, and Orange with Baking Soda).
  • Antibacterial Multi-Purpose Cleaner (Lavender, Pine, and Sparkling Citrus).
  • Professional All Purpose Cleaner & Degreaser (Lavender and Ocean Cool).

Can Fabuloso be Used to Wash Clothes?

A key ingredient in Fabuloso is its powerful surfactant, which helps to break down grease and grime effectively. The product also contains gentle but effective solvents that dissolve tough stains without damaging the surface. 

While Fabuloso does not contain bleach and is theoretically safe to use, according to its official website, it is not recommended to be used directly on the skin. Although it’s typically rinsed off when you wash your clothes, the solution may not wash away completely. 

Furthermore, Fabuloso is not designed as a laundry detergent and lacks specialized properties for clothing stain removal and fabric care. Additionally, the strong and long-lasting scents of Fabuloso may be too intense for clothing, as it can linger for several days.

Long-Term Effects of Washing Clothes with Fabuloso

While washing clothes with Fabuloso may not set forth immediate effects, they do have some long-term effects you should be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at them.

  • Can Wear Out Your Clothes: One potential effect is that your clothes can wear out faster than normal. The strong chemicals in Fabuloso break down the fibers of your clothing, leading to a shorter lifespan for your favorite garments.
  • Can Lead to Discoloration: Using Fabuloso regularly can cause discoloration of your clothes over time. The vibrant colors may fade and become dull, detracting from the overall appearance of your wardrobe.
  • Can Become Stiff: Another issue that can arise from washing clothes with Fabuloso is that they may become stiff after drying. This can be particularly problematic for delicate fabrics, as it can make them uncomfortable to wear and lose their original shape.
  • Can Cause Allergies & Irritation: Some individuals may experience allergies or skin irritation when using Fabuloso to wash their clothes. The active ingredients in this cleaner can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, causing discomfort and potentially damaging their skin.
  • Can Leave Behind Residue: Lastly, clothes washed with Fabuloso may be more prone to stains. The cleaner may not effectively remove all types of stains, leaving behind residual marks that are difficult to get rid of.

How to Wash Clothes with Fabuloso

If you have run out of laundry detergent and are desperately seeking an alternative, using Fabuloso can be a viable option. However, it’s crucial to understand the proper way to use it and consider its compatibility with different fabric types before using it as a substitute.

While it’s recommended to use laundry detergent whenever possible, there may be occasions when Fabuloso is your only choice. In this case, we will guide you on washing clothes with Fabuloso, whether you’re using a washing machine or handwashing.

Washing Machine

Washing clothes with Fabuloso in the washing machine occasionally shouldn’t cause significant harm. However, it’s crucial to avoid doing this on a daily basis as it could potentially damage your clothing or the machine itself. 

That said, here is a step-by-step guide on how to wash your clothes in a washing machine using Fabuloso.

  1. Load your clothes into the washing machine and add 1 to 2 capfuls of Fabuloso, depending on the size of your load.
  2. Select the appropriate wash cycle and water temperature for your clothes. If you’re unsure, refer to the care instructions on your clothing labels. 
  3. Once the wash and rinse cycle is complete, remove your clothes promptly from the washing machine to prevent wrinkles and musty odors. 
  4. Finally, air dry or follow the care instructions for machine drying.

Handwash

Typically, it’s best to handwash your clothes if you’re going to use Fabuloso as a laundry detergent, as you can ensure that the product is completely removed during the process. Remember to wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can do this.

  1. Fill a basin or sink with water and add a small amount of Fabuloso. 
  2. Swish the water around gently to create suds, then submerge your clothes, ensuring they are fully saturated. 
  3. Let them soak for a few minutes before agitating them gently by rubbing the fabric together. 
  4. Lastly, rinse them thoroughly with warm water until no soap residue remains, and hang them to air dry. 

Safety Precautions When Using Fabuloso To Wash Clothes

When using Fabuloso to wash clothes, you must prioritize safety precautions. With that in mind, listed below are a few precautions on how to safely use Fabuloso when washing your clothes.

  • Read the Label Before Use: To ensure your well-being and that of others in your household, don’t forget to read the label instructions before use. This will provide valuable information on proper handling and usage guidelines.
  • Wear Gloves & Face Mask (If Required): If you have sensitive skin, it’s essential to wear gloves and a face mask when handling Fabuloso. These protective measures are necessary to minimize any potential contact with the skin or inhalation of fumes, which could cause irritation or discomfort for some.
  • Use In a Well-Ventilated Area: It is also recommended to use Fabuloso in a well-ventilated area. Adequate ventilation helps dissipate fumes or vapors that may be released during washing. This ensures a healthier environment for you and your loved ones, reducing the risk of irritation.
  • Keep Away From Children: You should also keep Fabuloso away from children to prevent the risk of accidental ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation. Ingesting even small amounts of Fabuloso can lead to serious health risks for children, so extra caution must be exercised.
  • Don’t Mix With Other Products: Lastly, you must never mix Fabuloso with other cleaning products. Combining different chemicals can create potentially hazardous reactions or produce harmful gasses. To avoid any potential accidents or adverse effects, always use Fabuloso separately and follow the recommended dosage for optimal results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we do not recommend using Fabuloso to wash your clothes, as it is not formulated to serve this purpose. While it may not have immediate effects, there may be numerous long-term repercussions, especially for people who have sensitive skin. 

It’s best to use this product for its intended purpose, which is to clean hard and non-porous surfaces, as it’s been specifically formulated and designed for that. To wash your clothes, we recommend using high-quality detergents and softeners, that not only clean but preserve your clothes.


About Sirinan

Sirinan is a self-proclaimed cleanaholic and the editor-in-chief of Cleaney. Apart from coming with up creative ways to keep her living spaces clean and tidy, she loves to read on rainy days.