Originally Posted by Sadiemae
My late Momma taught me to use little white vinegar instead of fabric softener.
The reason your Momma taught you to use a little white vinegar is because it will take any excess soap out of the quilt (which attracts dirt) and also act to soften the fibers a bit, like a fabric softener, but not quite as much.
The reason you should never use a fabric softener on any quilt is that it will attract dirt to the quilt, and you will have to wash it more often. Not good for quilts. (This information comes from a book on restoring Heirloom Quilts.)
Also, my mother always used white vinegar on her quilts. I just never knew the reason why, except my Grandmother and Great Grandmother always did the same! So there's your folklore!