Softening-through-the-wash compositions (“STW compositions”) are added to the wash cycle of a laundering process to soften fabrics. The STW compositions of the present invention comprise a particulate fabric softening active having an average particle size of less than about 800 microns in diameter. The STW compositions are substantially free of detersive surfactants and silicone materials. The STW compositions can further comprise a particulate co-softening compound having an average particle size of less than about 800 microns in diameter. The STW compositions comprise an effective amount of the particulate fabric softening active and optional particulate co-softening compound to provide a concentration of the fabric softening active and optional co-softening compound of at least about 50 parts per million when the STW composition is dispensed in a wash solution of the laundering process. Processes to make these STW compositions are also encompassed in the present invention.