Do Dryer Balls Really Work?

Are you looking for a chemical-free alternative to liquid fabric softeners and dryer sheets?

Did you just discover dryer balls as a possible, cost-effective option to soften fabrics and reduce wrinkles naturally?

Well, then you probably want to know if they actually work. Is it possible for a set of weird looking balls to work just as well as dryer sheets for softening fabrics?

The short answer is YES. They do work. If you get the right dryer balls, they can absolutely replace the liquid fabric softener you add to your washing machine, and the dryer sheets you add to your dryer. When you switch to dryer balls instead, you’ll be able to eliminate the need for those expensive products by just leaving the set of balls in your dryer for every load.

What Are Dryer Balls?

If you don’t know exactly what dryer balls are, it can sound like an odd concept. You may have heard about people adding tennis balls to their dryer, especially when drying comforters and blankets. The concept behind dryer balls is similar, but they are more advanced in comparison to tennis balls, so they do a whole lot more when tumbling in your dryer with a load of laundry.

Dryer balls can be made from hard plastic, rubberized plastic, wool and other materials. Each exact type of ball will have differences and benefits when compared to the others, so the “best” option will vary by user. It will depend on whether cost, ability, noise level, number, or something else is the most important determining factor for you.

In general dryer balls are all relatively similar, but the exact size, design, material, and features will vary from type to type, and brand to brand. Natural wool dryer balls will always be smoother and require more balls, while plastic versions will often have bumps and textures to improve performance, and reduce the number of balls required to make them work, and do a good job. The most commonly used dryer balls are blue plastic ones with spikes, or natural colored wool ones that are soft.

No matter which kind of dryer balls you get, the way in which you use them will be similar. Just toss them in your dryer, and then leave them in there for every load. They’ll tumble with your clothes to lift and separate the fabrics, and improve the airflow. The material will massage fabrics to reduce static and wrinkles, and your clothes will dry faster than normal as a result. Only wool balls can add fragrance to your laundry, but any type will reduce static, eliminate wrinkles, cut drying times, lower energy costs, and soften fabrics.

While some people may notice a significant difference in the softness and static cling of their clothes after using dryer balls, the effectiveness can vary depending on the type and quality of the balls, as well as the size of the load being dried. It’s also important to note that dryer balls are not a complete substitute for fabric softener or dryer sheets, as they do not add any scent or fragrance to the laundry. Overall, if you’re looking for a more Eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to fabric softeners and dryer sheets, dryer balls are definitely worth considering.

How To Use Dryer Balls

Dryer balls are way easier to use than traditional fabric softener options. You never have to catch the washer at the right time, or remember to add anything to your dryer before you press start. Just install them once, and one set will last for years of regular use.

To begin, make sure to read instructions, and use the recommended number of balls for the type you purchased, and the size load you are washing.
If using wool balls, you can add fragrance oil every load to add fragrance, or every few loads. Add just a few drops to one of the wool balls for best results.
Place the balls into your dryer, and leave them there for each load.
You may want double the number of balls for extra large loads, or when washing comforters, blankets and sheets.
Drying times will reduce by up to 20%, so monitor initially to determine new average drying times for your specific appliance.
No need to remove after each load. Replace when worn only.

How Dryer Balls Work

The exact type of ball will not matter in how they function, but it may make a difference in how well they function. Essentially, they all work the same way. When you turn on your dryer, the balls will rotate along with your clothes. As the cycle continues, the balls will mix in with your clothing, and the individual pieces will begin to separate.

As the dryer balls move through the load, they will massage the fabrics, neutralize static, and smooth out wrinkles. Because the clothing will separate to let the balls through, it will also allow more air to flow between the clothes as well.

The improved airflow will help to eliminate wrinkles and it will also result in faster drying in general. Each piece of clothing will be affected by the tumbling balls, so your laundry will be just as smooth and soft as you are used to, but they won’t be coated in harsh chemicals or perfumes.

Why Use Dryer Balls

Dryer balls are a simple yet effective solution for anyone who wants to save time, energy, and money while also reducing their environmental impact. If you’re still using fabric softener or dryer sheets, here are some reasons why you should consider switching to dryer balls.

1. Save Time and Money

One of the main benefits of using dryer balls is that they can help reduce drying time, which can save you both time and energy. The balls work by bouncing around in the dryer and separating the clothes, which allows for better airflow and more even drying. This means that your clothes will dry faster and more efficiently, which can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bill.

2. Soften Fabrics Naturally

Another benefit of using dryer balls is that they can help soften fabrics naturally, without the use of chemical-based fabric softeners. Dryer balls made from wool can help absorb moisture from the clothes, which can help prevent them from feeling stiff or scratchy after drying. This is especially useful for items like towels or blankets, which can become stiff and rough if they’re not properly dried. The massaging action from any type of ball tumbling with your laundry will end up softening your clothing to makes sure nothing comes out stiff or uncomfortable.

3. Reduce Static Cling

It can be pretty annoying when you pull clothes from the dryer, and they’re all stuck together. It can be even worse when you try to put those clothes on. Static electricity will not only make the fabric difficult to deal with, it’ll also do other unwanted stuff like make your hair stand on end, or cause lint and fur to cling to your clothing. Dryer balls can help reduce static cling in your laundry, and that is a major benefit for most people. The balls work by creating friction between the clothes, which can help neutralize any static electricity that builds up during the drying process. This means that your clothes will come out of the dryer without any clingy or static feeling, which can be a major relief for anyone who has ever had to deal with this issue.

4. Eco-Friendly Option

If you’re looking for ways to reduce your environmental impact, using dryer balls is a great place to start. Dryer balls are typically made from Eco-friendly materials like wool or plastic, which are non-toxic and biodegradable. This means that they won’t harm the environment when they eventually break down, unlike many chemical-based fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

Also, you’ll buy one set of balls and use them for years. With other options, you’ll be buying multiple refills and packages all year round, so the amount of waste will be much higher in comparison. Additionally, because they can help reduce drying time and energy consumption, using dryer balls can also help reduce your carbon footprint.

5. Cost Effective Option

Finally, using dryer balls is a cost-effective alternative to using fabric softener or dryer sheets. While the initial cost of purchasing dryer balls may be higher than buying a bottle of fabric softener or a box of dryer sheets, the balls can last for years and don’t need to be replaced as frequently. This means that you can save money over time by using dryer balls instead of buying traditional fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

Will Dryer Balls Damage a Dryer?

No. Dryer balls are not hazardous to the interior of your dryer, and as long as you get good ones, you’ll never have to worry about them breaking or damaging your dryer.

Can’t I Just Use Tennis Balls?

You could, but the results will not be the same. The added texture of actual dryer balls will make a difference, and the material will too. You can certainly toss in some tennis balls and it will make a small difference, but using actual dryer balls will work way better.

Aren’t Dryer Balls Loud?

Not really. You can hear them if you try, but for most versions, the noise isn’t really a problem. Once your laundry starts tumbling, the balls will mix in and the noise will be minimal. Plastic balls will be more prone to noise than rubber or wool versions, so if you are concerned about the noise, just go with wool balls because you’ll barely be able to hear them.

An effective alternative to dryer sheets

Tips for Using Dryer Balls

It’s clear that dryer balls are an effective alternative, and they can even perform better than traditional options when you compare the risks and benefits. If you’re convinced that dryer balls are the way to go, here are some tips for using them effectively:

Use at least two plastic balls, or three wool balls for best results. Add more for larger loads.
When using wool balls, add a few drops of fragrance oil to make your laundry smell good too.
Never overload your dryer. For best results, the dryer balls will need room to move. Too many clothes will prevent them from working properly.
To avoid loss, remove the balls after each load. They can get easily trapped in bedding and linens.
To avoid mediocre results, be sure to get a good quality, highly reviewed set of dryer balls. Low quality ones will not perform as well, or last as long.

Believe it or not, dryer balls do actually work, and their performance is on par with more expensive options. When you switch from chemical-filled alternatives, you notice a difference in how your clothes look or feel, but you will save money, reduce your exposure to harmful ingredients, and cut out much of the effort required to do a load of laundry.

Using dryer balls is a simple and effective way to save time, energy, and money while also reducing your environmental impact. By switching from the product you’re using now, you can enjoy softer, less static-y laundry without relying on chemical-based fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

So why not give them a try? Your wallet, your laundry, and the planet will thank you.