Hmm. I think I'd be inclined not to argue with a 16 year old who does his own laundry and buy the Downy if he feels he must have fabric softener and hates the other stuff. I think I'd count my blessings on that one! As for the scent, let him pick it out. He's doing his own laundry, make him happy! ;) Having two softeners in the household seems like a minor inconvenience.

I've almost completely quit using softeners. I put some vinegar in the rinse, which softens the clothing. I might use a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful if I feel I really need to do something about static. Using that little almost completely eliminates the smell.

Hope this was helpful.

Jean Marie

Listen--buy the boy whatever scent he wants. He's doing his own laundry! Make him specify his scent, however. Perhaps he could come along on the next shopping trip and "sniff test."

Yay for 16-year-old fellows who do laundry!

Count me as giving the 16 year old what he wants. If your biggest problem is that you must have two brands of softeners, count your blessings!!

I would also ask him what detergent he prefers. :)

Can't blame a 16 year old boy for not wanting to smell like lavender! My son prefers unscented, probably because we have been using unscented detergents, bleaches, and softener for years. Let him pick his own. If you are concerned about build up, Downy Free and Clear does not build up like the scented version does (used to use the scented version years ago). I have used it exclusively in the washer I got in March and you can't tell I use fabric softener by looking in the machine.

Definitely get him the Downy, small price to pay. I would suggest you not give a dime of your money to Wal Mart, they are a horrible corporation that should not get our financial support. Buy it at Target, Safeway, Walgreens, anywhere but Wal Mart.

We use various flavors of Downey cut 50/50 with White Vinegar. Nothing special... but it sure works well. No buildups when you use vinegar with the softener. Get him to invest some of his time and thought into what he considers a good mix-> That can be a priceless experience....