Unless you count the numerous plant that bleed their essential oil hearts out to make this product, unalived in a senseless manner...then yes cruelty free.

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Q: Does this soften naturally or do you need a fabric softener?

Somewhat. You can also add white vinegar to the softener container. I use dryer balls in my dryer so that works pretty well.

Q: Does this really get the clothes clean? I am having to hand wash until my washer is fixed so this is an important question.

I use it to wash my infant son's clothes. He gets food everywhere and dirt from crawling. It works great. I haven't used it to handwash though, it has always been in my machine.

Q: Do u need to add a water softener like borax or washing soda?

No, unlike other detergents, this product does not require additives. I even no longer buy stain remover; I simply rub a little of this detergent onto the stain and then toss the item into the clothes hamper. Then whenever I have a load containing that soiled item, I wash it and the stain comes out. This is particularly effective with oil stains from cooking.