When it comes to household products, "softeners" can refer to a variety of items that serve to make things softer to the touch. For laundry, fabric softeners are often used to reduce static cling and make clothes feel smoother. In water treatment, water softeners are used to remove minerals and other impurities that can make water feel rough or hard. In the beauty industry, hair and skin softeners may be used to moisturize and nourish dry or rough areas. Synonyms for softeners might include smoothing agents, conditioning products, moisturizers, or emollients, depending on the specific context of their use. Regardless of the application, these softening products all work to make surfaces feel more comfortable and pleasant to the touch.