Dryer Balls: Everything You Need to Know

Are you familiar with the popular dryer balls and wondering exactly what they do? Read on, because we’ll explain the benefits of this dryer hack! 

What are dryer balls and how do they work?

Dryer balls are round balls that you put in the dryer to soften your clothes and reduce wrinkles. They work by bouncing around in the dryer and softening the fabrics while also circulating air between the clothes.

Grandma’s trick

In the past, tennis balls were often used to fluff up down jackets and help laundry dry faster. Adding these balls to wet laundry and letting them tumble together creates more space and airflow between the items. However, tennis balls make a lot of noise and can damage the dryer and delicate fabrics. Fortunately, there are now many alternatives on the market specifically designed for tumble dryers and fabrics.

Are dryer balls better than fabric softener?

Dryer balls are a more natural alternative to fabric softener and also help shorten drying time and reduce wrinkles. They are hypoallergenic and safe to use with all types of fabrics.

Plastic/rubber dryer balls or wool dryer balls?

There are many different dryer balls on the market, including plastic/rubber and wool varieties. High-quality plastic/rubber dryer balls won’t damage the dryer drum or clothes, but it’s important to choose a soft, good-quality product. Wool dryer balls are more sustainable and offer the same effect. They are hypoallergenic and safe for babies. They are also often made from recycled sheep’s wool. Make sure the wool is RWS-certified and that the sheep are treated well.

Can I use fabric softener with wool dryer balls?

You don’t need to use fabric softener with wool dryer balls because the balls already soften your laundry. Fabric softener can also damage the balls and make them less effective.

How many dryer balls do you need?

Add 2-3 plastic/rubber/wool dryer balls for a small load, 3-4 for a normal load, and 4-6 for a large/full drum. This creates more space between the items, helping your laundry dry faster and come out of the drum less wrinkled!

How often should dryer balls be replaced?

Dryer balls can last for up to 1000 drying cycles. However, it’s recommended that you replace them every 2-3 years to maintain optimal performance.

Can dryer balls be used with delicate fabrics?

Yes, dryer balls are safe to use with delicate fabrics. However, it’s recommended that you choose dryer balls made from wool or other natural materials, as these are gentler on delicate fabrics.

Can dryer balls help reduce static electricity?

Yes, dryer balls help reduce static electricity in clothes by keeping fabrics separated and thereby reducing friction.

Can wool dryer balls damage my clothes?

No, wool dryer balls are safe to use and won’t damage your clothes. Unlike tennis balls, for example, wool dryer balls are soft and don’t shed lint, making them suitable for all types of fabrics.

Are wool dryer balls suitable for people with allergies?

Yes, wool dryer balls are hypoallergenic and safe to use for people with allergies.

Can I use essential oils with wool dryer balls?

Yes, you can use essential oils to add a lovely scent to your laundry. Put a few drops on the wool dryer balls before putting them in the dryer.

By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope you now have a better understanding of what dryer balls are and how they work. If you have any more questions about dryer balls, don’t hesitate to ask us!