Unexpected expenses for August

[Radiance]

$53 on a spare part for the fridge. And It was only 53 because I knew what it was and bought and installed the part myself. If not it would have been additional $70 to get it diagnosed.

$24 for summer uniform shirts. I only bought 2 so will have to wash frequently. I think I need to increase my baby allocation to allow for "school supplies" He is in pre-school but they are always asking for something.

...

[Joan.of.the.Arch]

When you are living close to the edge, expenses like this can be nearly impossible. Sounds like the uniform shirt has to be worn everyday. Around here preschoolers only wear their uniform shirts when they go on a field trip. It helps the teachers keep up with their kids.

[Radiance]

Yeah, uniform is required year round...I think I'll be washing by hand. It is such a small piece and I don't want to use the washer each night (They usually go over two changes during the day). I need to test if it dries well overnight.

Friday is no uniform day since they do water play.

Question:

I usually use dryer sheets for softener. I think the shirt will be too stiff if I wash by hand. What are natural and cheap cloth softeners?

My mom is back home recovering so I am not expecting more unexpected medical expenses, just the regular stuff.

[Radiance]

Found it
Baking soda and vinager

The Toxic Danger of Fabric Softener and Dryer Sheets, by SixWise.com