Laundary advice please

Because I really am now relying on the FL for most things... Right, so whilst moving to the back of beyond has given me lovely country air and bounteous opportunities to observe gorgeous mother nature, it has also deprived me of the lovely tumble drier (dryer? *eyes spelling*). Which is no biggie. Wash the clothes as normal and then stick them on the rack to dry.

Except that being dried by natural air convection leaves everything stiff and rather harsh on the skin. I am suddenly getting what folks mean when they say 'cardboard jeans'. All the towels are effectively sandpaper for the first few days.

So. Can anyone offer any advice on ways to keep clothes nice and soft? Any particular fabric conditioners/detergents that are particularly recommended or otherwise?