Why the Laundress Recalled Its Fabric Conditioners

There’s nothing like the scent and feel of fresh laundry. A wide range of detergents, softeners and dryer sheets can offer you a small sense of luxury every time you finish a load.

However, after a recent product recall from the detergent company The Laundress, it’s worth thinking twice about which products you’re using. Here’s everything you need to know about the recall, including which products were affected, and how you can get a refund.

What Products Did the Laundress Recall?

The Laundress recalled 800,000 units of fabric conditioners, also known as fabric softeners. These were sold between 2011 and November 2022. More than 700,000 were already recalled in December 2022 due to bacterial contamination.

Why Did the Laundress Recall Its Fabric Conditioners?

In a statement to Consumer Reports, the Laundress says, “[We], in collaboration with the Consumer Product Safety Commissions and Health Canada, voluntarily recalled fabric conditioners that might contain an impurity, ethylene oxide, which, in the event of significant and direct long-term exposure, can cause adverse health effects.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ethylene oxide can damage DNA and increase the risk for certain cancers, including Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloma, lymphocytic leukemia and breast cancer.

James Dickerson, Ph.D., chief scientific officer at Consumer Reports, says the most likely exposure comes from inhaling it. “You’re opening it up and smelling its scent and you do it over and over again,” he says. Ethylene oxide can also be absorbed in the body through ingestion, but likely not through skin contact.

How Do I Know If I Have a Recalled Product?

Recalled products are listed below. Additionally, check the package to see if it was manufactured during the last decade. If so, take immediate action:

• Fabric Conditioner Classic (sold in 16-ounce, one-gallon and five-gallon sizes);
• Fabric Conditioner Lady (16-oz.);
• Fabric Conditioner Celebration (16-oz.);
• Fabric Conditioner Number 10 (16-oz.);
• Fabric Conditioner Fresh Wash (16-oz.);
• 723 Fabric Conditioner (16-oz.);
• Fabric Baby Conditioner (16-oz.);
• Bulk Fabric Conditioner (1-lb.);
• Bulk Fabric Conditioner Baby (1-lb.)
• Fabric Conditioner Baby Classic (2-oz.);
• Fabric Conditioner Packette Classic (15-mil.);
• Fabric Conditioner Packette Baby (15-mil.);
• Fabric Conditioner Aidan and Anais (16-oz.);
• Fabric Conditioner Crate & Barrel (33-oz.).

What Should I Do If I Have a Recalled Product?

First things first. The Laundress says, “Consumers should discontinue the use of any fabric conditioners.” Then  file for a refund by doing the following:

1. Locate the lot code on your fabric conditioner package, then write your initials and the date next to it in permanent marker.
2. Take a photo of this and the receipt, if you still have it.
3. Email the photos to [email protected].

You can also submit a refund request on The Laundress’ website. Or, if you bought the product directly from The Laundress, simply give customer service your email to look up the purchase.