The present attempt focuses on eliminating the need for commonly used softeners after reactive dyeing of cotton knit fabric. A previous study revealed that during chemical-free high-temperature pretreatment, the removal of wax, pectin, and fat was lower compared to conventional samples. This lower removal allowed for the retention of monohydric and trihydric alcoholic esters, which were responsible for the fabric's surface smoothness and softness. The mechanical and handle properties of the fabric samples were evaluated using the Fabric Touch Tester (FTT), which measured various parameters, including stiffness. In conventional pretreatment, it took 1.4 seconds for a water droplet to enter the fabric, while samples pretreated at 130°C for 60 minutes required 2.9 seconds. The samples treated at 130°C for 60 minutes showed the best results in terms of absorbency and related parameters. The compression work was higher in chemical-free pretreated samples that were not softened with a softener. In chemical-free pretreated cotton fabric, the removal of constitutional fat, oil, and wax was minimal, contributing to a natural soft and smooth feel. The comfortability grading, including softness, smoothness, warmth, and active-passive touch, was nearly identical for both conventional and chemical-free pretreated samples, with only minor differences in smoothness. The strength retention of the chemical-free pretreated samples was greater than that of conventionally treated samples, as oxy-cellulose formation was avoided due to the absence of hydrogen peroxide.