Liquid fabric softening compositions comprise a flame retardant. The liquid fabric softening compositions preferably further comprise a fabric softening active. In another embodiment of the invention, the present compositions comprise a flame retardant, wherein the flame retardant is a phosphorus-containing fabric softener. In another embodiment of the invention, the present compositions comprise no greater than about 21%, by weight of the composition, of a fabric softener active and at least about 0.5%, by weight of the composition, of a silicone material. The present compositions can be used to treat all types of fabrics to provide improved fabric softening and freshness, while minimizing the risk of flammability associated with cotton-containing fluffier fabrics, such as fleece and terry cloth, when treated with liquid fabric softening compositions.