Connie, consider going the cheap route and use white vinegar in the softener dispenser, it both soften clothing and helps get out the residue laundry soap in your clothing. Use 1/4-1/2 cup to a load, I've been doing this for years.

My apartment owner decided to put in a whole building water softener because the hard water was corroding the fixture so I no longer need to add vinegar to my wash but I still do in order to get rid of the soap residue.