Dryer sheets and fabric softener are not the same thing, though they serve similar purposes. Fabric softener is a liquid chemical treatment applied to laundry during the wash cycle to reduce stiffness and add fragrance. Dryer sheets are solid, waxy sheets tossed into the dryer with wet clothes, where heat activates the coating to soften fabrics and reduce static cling. The main differences are application method, timing, and effectiveness: fabric softener works throughout the wash but can build up on fabrics over time and may reduce absorbency, particularly in towels. Dryer sheets provide less softening power but excel at eliminating static and don't accumulate residue as much. Some people use both together for maximum effect, while others avoid fabric softener entirely due to coating concerns and prefer dryer sheets alone. Both add fragrance, though dryer sheets provide a fresher scent while fabric softener offers longer-lasting fragrance. Neither is strictly necessary—many people skip both and use vinegar, wool dryer balls, or nothing at all for a simpler laundry routine.