Dryer balls are most commonly made of tightly compressed wool, but can also be made of plastic or rubber. They help prevent laundry from clumping together in the dryer by tumbling between layers and separating fabric.
Do dryer balls work? In short, not really. There are marginal differences, but in most cases dryer balls actually increase your costs by a very small amount. We tested with a conventional electric vented dryer and an upmarket condenser dryer both with and without the balls and compared the two.
A: As a rule, the more balls you use the better they work. However, as a guide you really need a minimum of three wool laundry dryer balls for small to medium loads; five for medium to large loads; and up to a dozen for large to huge loads. Q: How long do wool dryer balls last?
They're a little, inexpensive addition to your laundry cycle that goes a long way. They cut down on dry time, save some money on washes and even get rid of clingy pet hair that just won't budge. “Wool dryer balls can soften linens, reduce static cling, increase fluff and eliminate wrinkles,” Amy says.
Even plastic and rubber dryer balls won't have an effect on your dryer. Most manufacturers are careful to note the weight of each dryer ball and the material it's made of. That being said, most loads of laundry don't need more than 2-3 dryer balls at a time.
The balls go inside the drum of your dryer and are often used in place of commercial fabric softeners and dryer sheets.
Yes, that's right. One of the most creative hacks for laundry doers everywhere is to throw tennis balls in dryer machines. What does this do? It can prevent clumping of the filling of bulky items (like those mentioned above) AND create more fluff1.
Over time, wool dryer balls can start to hold onto odors from laundry detergents, fabric softeners (if you're transitioning from conventional products), or even mildew if they've been stored improperly while damp. Any unpleasant smells emanating from the balls are a sure sign they need to be refreshed.
If you're experiencing static in your clothes even after using wool dryer balls, there are a few potential reasons. Make sure you're using a sufficient number of dryer balls. Adding more balls can enhance their effectiveness. Over-drying your clothes can contribute to static cling, so try reducing the drying time.
Step 1: Place your fluff and tumble dryer balls into a sock. Step 2: Run through a hot wash cycle with detergent. Step 3: Remove from sock and toss in the dryer on the highest heat setting! This is the method I try to use every few months!
They're just as effective as my trusted dryer sheets
My clothes came out static- and wrinkle-free and just as soft as they felt after a turn with my regular dryer sheets.
An extra tip: pop two clean tennis balls into the drum. They will help to circulate air flow in your garments and prevent the down feathers from clumping together.
Dryer Balls or Anti-Static Sheets help reduce static, which makes pet hair cling less to fabrics. Dryer balls also improve air circulation, helping to separate pet hair from clothes.
Dryer sheets are convenient and add softness and fresh-washed fragrance, while dryer balls are a better choice for the environment since they're made with natural materials and are reusable.
People also worry that dryer balls contribute to pilling by abrading natural fibers by bouncing around in the dryer drum. While plastic dryer balls can form jagged edges that snag or tear laundry, wool dryer balls are safe to use.
Dryer balls can be safely used in both gas and electric dryers. However, make sure not to overload your dryer with laundry as this can prevent proper drying and extend drying times. Always make sure to follow the proper care instructions for your items.
Most dryers work by blowing hot air over the clothes, and then exhausting this hot, humid air outside. If the exhaust vent is blocked or trapped with lint, debris, a sock, or anything else, the humid air will linger inside the unit and hold the musty smell.
Yes, recharging wool dryer balls helps maintain their effectiveness. Over time, the wool becomes compressed and matted. Recharging restores the loft and shape of the balls so they continue effectively softening fabric, reducing static, and speeding up drying time. Simply wash the balls monthly.
It's true that golf balls marginally lift and separate clothes as they tumble, allowing a bit more air circulation for reduced drying time. In this, they underperform lint-producing tennis balls—but are a whole lot noisier.
Dryer balls are usually made of wool or plastic. They can help items dry faster and may help fluff your pillow.
For a small dryer clothes load, 2-3 balls will do. However, for medium loads you may want to throw in about 3-4, and for large loads, 5-6 dryer balls. These figures ensure your wool dryer balls absorb enough excess moisture to effectively limit static, improve the drying process, and reduce drying time.
To refresh your wool dryer balls, simply place them in a lingerie bag or pillowcase and wash them with a load of laundry in warm water.
If you're looking for a totally natural way to shorten drying time; reduce static; and soften clothes, bedding, and towels, it's time to ditch your disposable dryer sheets and pick up a set of Heritage Park Wool Dryer Balls.